10 Things Pet Owners Should Know

10

ThingsEveryPet Parent Should Know

by Amanda Harper

Study Body Language

All animals use their postures to communicate to one another – and that can give you some very important hints about how your pet is feeling! Did you know that when a dog leans down on his forelegs with his rump up in the air, he’s probably feeling playful? And did you know that mimicking this posture can encourage a dog to be friendly with you (no need to get down on the ground; bending your knees slightly and placing your hands on your knees while speaking in an excited tone usually does the trick!)

It’s Just Like Baby-Proofing

Pets are basically like toddlers; they have a knack for knocking things over, a natural curiosity about everything and a seemingly relentless drive to find snacks. Even if your pet stays in an enclosure, you’ll be amazed at the ingenuity your little friend can display when you’re not looking – just like a kid. Make sure your home is a safe environment for your pet – even those “hard to reach” places you think they can’t get to.

What To Eat – and Not Eat

Animals have different dietary needs. Their nutritional needs obviously vary by species, but sometimes also by age or even breed. It’s also important to know what your pet can’t eat – even if it’s not exactly food, such as lilies (they’re highly toxic to dogs and cats.)

Budget Bites

Keeping a pet ain’t free. It’s important to consider your pet as a part of your household when it comes to the budget. Be sure to set aside an emergency fund just for your pets in case they need veterinary care. And budget for little splurges, like matching Halloween costumes or special treats.

Training Ain’t Easy, But It’s Necessary

Training your pet takes diligence, patience, consistency and a whole lot of time. If you aren’t able to do it on your own, paid training courses are absolutely worth the cost; think of it as an investment in your future happiness and peace of mind.

Kids Need Help

Being a pet owner means tackling a lot of teachable moments with kids. It’s important to teach kids empathy and care for animals, as well as respect for animals as both friends and potential dangers. Unfortunately, it also sometimes means teaching about loss. It’s a big

TOP TIP:

Save your vet's phone number and address in your contacts so you don't have to rely on Google in the event of an emergency.

responsibility to help kids make room in their hearts for animals, but you can do it!

Unique Pets Bring Unique Challenges

Unusual pets can be a lot of fun, and it’s definitely an opportunity for you to learn a lot about the proper care and keeping of these unique creatures. But the more “out there” a pet is, the harder it can be to find veterinary care, food, care supplies and more. There can also be red tape involved with more exotic animals. Be sure to educate yourself completely before diving in!

Know The Bad Signs

It’s incredibly important that you know what illness looks like in your pet. What’s perfectly normal for a dog (panting, for example) can be a sign of trouble in a cat. And sometimes, pet illness looks very confusing for a pet owner; for instance, seizures in cats can look like odd behavior that you might shrug off. It’s worth looking up the signs of sickness in your pet and educating yourself on what to look for.

It’s hard to make generalizations about all species of pet, but generally speaking, these symptoms are worth looking into; lethargy, loss of appetite, change in bowel habits, confusion, seizures, unexplained weight loss/gain, consistent coughing, wheezing, hair loss/itchy skin, eye changes, pale gums, joint stiffness or a change in their eyes. While not all of these symptoms necessarily mean there’s an emergency – and this list is by no means comprehensive – it’s worth observing your pet more closely and getting in touch with your vet.

Have an Emergency Plan

It’s important to do your research before you have a pet emergency. Keep the number for your vet and a 24-hour veterinary clinic you trust on the fridge and in your phone, along with your other emergency numbers; save their addresses in your maps app, as well. If you’re going on vacation with your pet, research local vet clinics at your destination before you go. Talk to the rest of your household about your pet emergency plans.

It’s Worth It!

Having a pet companion is an incredibly enriching experience. Studies tell us that they reduce our overall stress – in spite of any “accidents” on the carpet – and reduce levels of depression, loneliness and anxiety in members of their household. They can also help improve your cardiovascular health. That’s nothing to say of all the love you’ll feel! •