For those who are animal lovers, like myself, pets become a big part of our family. Pet ownership comes with a variety of responsibilities including proper nutrition, exercise, grooming and veterinary care. Pet ownership is a serious commitment, and is it our duty to ensure our pets get the love, care, attention, support and companionship they need to live healthy, happy lives.

Read on to learn why it's important to be a responsible pet owner.

Being A Pet Parent Brings Lots Of Responsibilities

When you adopt a pet, you take on the responsibility of an animal who will be solely dependent on you their entire lives. Pets are not something that can be thrown away and forgotten, nor should they to be tied up outside, or put in cages when you get tired of them.

Pet ownership involves considering several factors before obtaining a pet, such as the necessary time commitment, the type of pet that suits your lifestyle, and the resources you need to provide to take care of your pet.

Pets can't speak for themselves, therefore we take on a responsibility to advocate for them and provide the support and resources they need and require. Providing that support begins even before we bring a pet home.

Considering Adopting A Pet?

Surely we see cute little fur babies frolicking about and playing joyfully, and we want to bring them all home with us. But that's not wise. Once you take them in and/or feed them, they are yours to take care of from here on.

So, before getting a pet, carefully assess your availability, readiness and willingness to take on the responsibilities that comes with owning a pet. Think about your lifestyle, work and living situation, available time, and financial state. Are you able to take the quality time with them that they need? Would be able to take care of them when they get sick or old.

In addition, do your children know how to treat a pet in an appropriate manner? Do your other pets get along with other animals?

Avoid impulsive decisions when selecting a pet. Are you ready for a pet? If you don't know for sure, please wait until you're certain that you're ready.

Commit Yourself

• 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 adequate food and 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

Prepare Your Home For Your New Pet

Pets need a acceptable environment to keep them healthy and happy. This includes providing a warm and comfy bed, and a specific indoor area for your pet to sleep and rest, (if you don't want them to sleep with you). They need fresh food and water, toys and an area so they can run and play.

You will also need to keep dangerous and toxic substances safely out of your pet's reach. If you live in an apartment, ensure windows and balconies are not accessible and properly secured if they are. Puppies love to chew and kittens love to play, so make sure that electric plugs and wires are out of reach and any items which may pose a risk, are removed.

If you're adopting a cat make sure you have their litter box ready. You'll want to put them gently in it and take one paw and "dig with it in the litter." This shows them how to use the box and helps them know were to go to relieve themselves.

Make sure you keep the litter box clean. They don't like stepping on their excretion anymore than we would our own. Failing to do so will cause them to urinate outside the box. Cat's are very clean creatures and will avoid a dirty litter box. Plus, it can lead to potential health issues like a urinary tract infection (UTIs), and stress due to discomfort.

Bringing Your Pet To Their New Home

When you bring your pet home, take your time and gradually introduce them to their new surroundings. Provide a quiet area for them to adjust, like a bedroom, and keep the door slightly open. Slowly introduce them to their new family members and other pets you may have in a safe manner. This can be an especially overwhelming time for kittens and puppy's who have just been separated from their mother.

Remember, your pet is going to be with you a long time, and you want them to feel secure.

Respect For Society And The Environment

As a pet owner, you should be aware of your legal and social responsibilities.

These include:

• Make sure your dog wears a collar with a tag and your contact details

• Make sure that your dog is kept on a leash, under control in public places and clean up after them if they leave any waste

• Make sure that your pet does not bother other animals including other pets, wildlife and farm animals

• Make sure that your pet does not bother people (bikers, joggers, children etc.)

• Make sure that you do not mistreat, abandon, or fail to take care of your dog or cat

• Don't allow your pet to stray, roam, or become lost

• Keep a close eye on your pet, especially when outdoors

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

• Be aware of any decline in your pet's overall health and promptly seek advice from your veterinarian.

Owning a pet is a privilege and should result in a mutually beneficial, bonding relationship.

Conclusion:

Remember, responsible pet ownership is a life-long commitment to your pet. You will need to provide appropriate care throughout their entire life. By fulfilling all the responsibilities of a responsible pet owner, you contribute to your pet's overall well-being and help them live a happy, healthy, satisfied life.

Enjoy the closeness and the bonding and make sure to cherish every moment together!