Responsibilities of Pet Ownership

1.    Commit

• Avoid impulsive decisions when selecting a pet.

•  Select a pet that's suited to your home and lifestyle.

• Keep only the type and number of pets for which you can provide appropriate food, water, shelter, health care and companionship.

• Commit to the relationship for the life of your pet(s).

• Provide appropriate exercise and mental stimulation.

• Properly socialize and train your pet.

 

2.    Invest

• Recognize that pet ownership requires an investment of time and money.

• Make sure your pet receives preventive health care (vaccinations, parasite control, etc.), as well as care for any illnesses or injuries.

• Purchase Pet Insurance to financially assist for emergencies.

• Budget for potential emergencies.

 

3.    Obey

• Obey all local ordinances, including licensing, and noise control.

• Don't allow your pet to stray or become feral.

 

4.    Identify

• Make sure your pet is properly identified (i.e., tags, microchips or tattoos) and keep its registration up-to-date.

 

5.    Limit

• Don't contribute to our nation's pet overpopulation problem: limit your pet's reproduction through spay & neuter.

 

6.    Prepare

• Prepare for an emergency or disaster, including assembling an evacuation kit.

• Make alternate arrangements if you can no longer provide care for your pet

• Recognize any decline in your pet's quality of life and make timely decisions in consultation with a veterinarian.