How to Be a Responsible Dog Owner

Here are ten obligations of a responsible dog owner. Rate yourself or give it (anonymously!) to some other dog owner.

1. Don’t get a dog unless you can afford the upkeep including an annual veterinary examination, vaccinations and potential emergency care.

2. Make sure your dog has identification, preferably by microchip (see my article at http://www.toybreeds.com/microchips.htm.

3. Don’t let your dog roam unsupervised and don’t walk him without a leash in urban areas.

4. Know and obey your local and community laws and rules on dogs.

5. ALWAYS SCOOP POOP when out on walks. Put it in a plastic bag for placement in liter container.

6. Worm your dog regularly throughout the year – it’s not just a summertime need.

7. Provide him with a balanced, high quality dog food and continual fresh clean water.

8. Have adequate insurance. This may include pet health insurance but definitely includes homeowners and liability insurance. Any dog can bite – I repeat, any dog can bite. Protect your home and assets with insurance.

9. Don’t let your dog jump up or rush people and other dogs. You have no right to complain if a stranger uses a mace-like spray on your dog if you’re letting him run loose.

10. MOST IMPORTANT – respect the views and rights of others. Not everyone loves dogs as much as we do. These people, however, have a right to peaceful walks or bike rides, clean yards and quiet enjoyment of their backyards!

P.S. Visit http://www.ToyBreeds.com next month for a new edition of the Bone-Mot™.