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National Pet Week
By Tamara Sevigny
National Pet Week, May 4-10, 2008, is a celebration of the relationships we have with our pets. Our pets provide us with unconditional love and companionship and they have profound effects on our lives in many ways. Take this week to show your pet your appreciation.
Being a responsible pet owner is more then just looking over your pet’s basic needs. You need to give them the love they give you.
Here’s a few tips to show your companion animal how you care. Use this week to find new ways to give your pet the extra attention they deserve, not just this week, but all year long.
After you’ve gone out all day take a minute to say hello to your pets before starting your busy nightly routine.
- Make time each day to give your pets your undivided attention for a little while, whether you offer play time, a walk or cuddle time, your pet will appreciate the attention.
- Make sure your dog or cat wears an ID tag at all times that includes your name, address and telephone number(s).
- Make sure your yard is pet safe. Is it fenced in? Is there any way for your pet to escape? What kinds of fertilizer do you use? Do you have a pool? If so, make sure your pet is supervised while in the pool area.
- While outdoors alone make sure your pets have proper shelter and water, both in the cold and warm months.
- Follow local laws for licensing your dog and vaccinating all of your pets.
- If you haven’t had a regular checkup for your pet in a while, make sure you check in with your vet. Regular wellness visits are a good way to ensure a long happy life.
- Spay or neuter your pets. This actually prolongs the life of your pet, as well as helping with adolescent behavior problems, plus is helps reduce the problem of pet overpopulation.
- Give your pet a nutritionally balanced diet and constant access to fresh water. To make sure you are giving your pet the best diet you can offer, check with your vet.
- Enroll your dog in training classes. This will be beneficial to you and your dog as well as your relationship with each other.
- Make sure your pet is getting enough exercise. They will appreciate a daily walk and the extra time with you.
- To ensure the safety of your dog always walk him or her on a leash.
- Be loyal and patient with your pets. Remember, most problems can be easily overcome with a little patience and a lot of love. If you are having problems contact a professional.
- Last but not least, give your pet lots of love and affection every day. This will make them very happy!
National Pet Week was founded in 1981 by the American Veterinary Medical Associations (AVMA) and the Auxiliary to the AVMA. It is now celebrated nationwide as well as other parts of the world. The goals of National Pet Week include responsible pet ownership, celebration of the human-animal bond and promoting public awareness of veterinary medicine.
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