It’s A Dog’s Life—

A New Year Wish For Dogs

By Mary Jane Anderson

January is upon us, a fresh New Year. Concerned dog owners who enjoy the company of their dogs must educate and take a stand for responsible dog ownership. Dogs give their owners unconditional love without question of complaint. A dog should be part of the family, not tied outside or free to roam as the family gathers together enjoying their company inside the house. All dog owners must be aware of the laws controlling all dogs. Unfortunately, too many either do not know the laws or ignore their responsibility to their dog and the community.

This is the time of the year for New Year’s resolutions. Do you ever include your dog on the list? Maybe it would be a good idea and something your dog or your neighbors would appreciate. Here is a “Checklist for Dog Owners” that might help you to decide what you should add to your New Year’s resolutions.

*Do you keep your dog on a leash or train him to stay in the yard? Many town and cities have ordinances prohibiting dogs to leave their property without a leash.

*Is your dog licensed?

*If your dog is licensed, does he wear leather or nylon buckled collar displaying his tag? Every dog should always wear a buckled collar with his tag since this is the only identification of your dog if he or she has wandered off. The dog pounds would have less confused and unhappy dogs if the dog wardens would be able to contact the owners through their tags.

*Does your dog visit a veterinarian for yearly checkups? Yearly checkups for booster shots are preventive medicine for a healthier and happier dog.

*Is your dog spayed, neutered or controlled when she is in season. There has been a concern to control the overpopulation of dogs. Having your dog spayed or neutered will greatly help to eliminate this problem.

*Does your dog have good manners at home and in the community? The well-known saying an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure can easily apply to your dog’s relationship in the family. Dogs, however, do things that irritate us and there is always a way to end unacceptable canine behavior. Retraining, although it takes more determination, patience, and stamina, can establish a better mutual understanding between you and your dog.

*Do you take time out to groom your dog? Grooming is an essential part in the health and welfare of your dog. Your dog will appreciate the time you spent solely with him.

*Do you consider your dog’s needs other than food and shelter? Dogs are sociable animals belonging to a pack. Dogs that do not meet people frequently become lonely, anxious, and depressed.

*Do you have your dog checked for worms regularly? Internal parasites can cause havoc to the health of your dog as well as the external parasites such as fleas and ticks.

*Do you keep your dog’s ears clean and nails clipped?

*Do you watch your dog’s weight? Dogs need proper food to safeguard their physical health along with plenty of fresh air and water. The amount of food should be measured accordingly to the age and the activities of your dog.

Does your dog get enough exercise? Each breed requires daily exercise. Overweight becomes an essential issue in the well-being of your dog.

*Is your dog a good neighbor, not visiting when he is not wanted?

*Does your dog bark and upset the neighbors? Correct your dog to solve the problem.

*Does your dog know he is part of the family?

*How many honest Yes answers would you give in the quiz? A dog owner who scored 100 on the quiz would be an exceptional person and one whom I have not yet met. But that only proves the point; we all can do better in some aspect of dog ownership. If only one question can change to an honest Yes, that would be a wonderful way to start the New Year!!

Have A Very Happy, Tail Wagging New Year