Responsible pet ownership

Owning a pet is a privilege and should result in a mutually beneficial relationship. However, the benefits of pet ownership come with obligations. Responsible pet ownership includes:

-Committing to the relationship for the life of the pet(s).
-Avoiding impulsive decisions about obtaining pet(s), and carefully selecting pet(s) suited to your home and lifestyle.
-Recognizing that ownership of pet(s) requires an investment of time and money.
-Keeping only the type and number of pets for which an appropriate and safe environment can be provided, including appropriate food, water, shelter, health care and companionship.
-Ensuring pets are properly identified (i.e., tags, microchips, or tattoos) and that registration information in associated databases is kept up-to-date
-Adherence to local ordinances, including licensing and leash requirements.
-Controlling pet(s') reproduction through managed breeding, containment, or spay/neuter, thereby helping to address animal control and overpopulation problems.
-Establishing and maintaining a veterinarian-client-patient relationship.
-Providing preventive (e.g., vaccinations, parasite control) and therapeutic health care for the life of pet(s) in consultation with, and as recommended by, its veterinarian.
-Socialization and appropriate training for pet(s), which facilitates their well-being and the well-being of other animals and people.
-Preventing pet(s) from negatively impacting other people, animals and the environment, including proper waste disposal, noise control, and not allowing pet(s) to stray or become feral.
-Providing exercise and mental stimulation appropriate to the pet(s') age, breed and health status.
-Advance preparation to ensure the pet(s') well-being in the case of an emergency or disaster, including assembling an evacuation kit.
-Making alternative arrangements if caring for the pet is no longer possible.
-Recognizing declines in the pet(s') quality of life and making decisions in consultation with a veterinarian regarding appropriate end-of-life care (e.g., palliative care, hospice, euthanasia).

AVMA Guidelines for Responsible Pet Ownership
Oversight CHAB; EB approved 11/2011

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Please visit PGAA's "General Canine Care Articles and read the articles listed under "Selecting a Dog/Breed"