RESPONSIBLE DOG OWNERSHIP

WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE DOG OWNERSHIP?

There are many Australians who view their pets just as important as a family member. In particular dogs are being viewed in this manner, more and more.

Dogs bring joy, loyality, love and companionship with them, and while we are more than happy to embrace these great traits and welcome them into our homes, dogs are also a huge responsibility.

If you have been wanting to introduce a new dog into your home, it is extremely important to plan and to research the type of dog that would be best suited to your lifestyle. Selecting the perfect dog for you is a fun process, but should be thoroughly thought through prior to making the commitment. The reason for this is, when choosing a dog you need to consider both your needs and the needs of the dog that will spend the next 10 to 18 years as a member of your family.

If you've made the decision to commit to owning a dog and your life can provide this bundle of joy with the care and attention they need and deserve, then take some time to consider adopting from a shelter. A variety of different breeds, age, colours, size and personalities enter the rescue system and there is a great deal of satisfaction in know you have given this pet a second chance at life.

Animal welfare organisations are forever being left with abandoned and displaced dogs, where people hadn't done the appropriate research or taken the responsibility of owning a dog seriously. Each year in Australia approximately 80,000 dogs are rescued and just as many don't get that chance. By giving a rescued dog a chance, you will be freeing up a space for another dog in need.

All pets are a life-long commitment but given the chance, they will love you for life.

MICROCHIPPING

Now a leagl requirement in most states, microchipping is a safe procedure that requires the insertion of a micro-chip, which is approximately the size of a grain of rice, into the back of the neck of the dog. Owner's details are then recorded on a database which can be retrieved if the dog is ever lost or finds itself in an animal management facility.

DESEXING

De-sexing is essential to reduce the number of neglected or abandoned dogs. It may also improve undesirable behaviour and helps to reduce reproductive health problems, such as some cancers later in life. Despite claims, female dogs do not need to produce a litter for full physical and emotional development and it will not change the nature of male dogs.

TIPS
All community members expect to be able to enjoy public places without fear or threat of being harassed by dogs or walking on dog excrements. They are also entitled to enjoy their garden without dogs roaming onto their property or being disturbed by excessive barking. The following ar some tips on how you can be a responsible dog owner:

Keep your dog leashed in public to prevent your dog runnning away, or jumping on other dogs or people
Pick up after your dog and dipose of waste appropriately
Provide your dog with nutritious food and clean water
Ensure your dog has adequate shelter out of the elements both in winter and summer
Check that your backyard is secure when your dog is outside
Obedience train and socialise your dog to ensure a well-mannered family member
Adhere to both state and local legislation
Take your dog for annual health checks
Take your dog for a walk once a day for physical exercise, mental stimulation and emotional well being