Responsible Animal Guardian Month

Those with animals know that being responsible for our furry friends is a daily, year-round commitment.  To highlight the importance of humans’ responsibilities to animals, In Defense of Animals (IDA) has declared the month of May “Responsible Animal Guardian Month.” 

Purpose of the Campaign

According to the IDA, one purpose behind the Responsible Animal Guardian Campaign is to focus on promoting the positive actions of animal guardians.

What is a Responsible Animal Guardian?

Responsible guardians are often fully committed to humane, compassionate, lifelong care for their companion animal(s). A responsible guardian is able and committed to caring for the animal’s physical, behavioral, social, and psychological needs for the lifetime of the animal.

What You Can Do

If you are thinking of adding a new fur-friend to your family be sure to consider the following items in regards to your pet’s needs and care:

Decide Who will Be Caring for the New Pet

Your new four-legged friend is going to need walks, feeding, playtime, baths, training. Someone might have to take him out early in the morning as well as in the evening. Pet owners may also have to spend time consistently training him or commit to bringing him to a trainer.  These details should be worked out before you take an animal home.

Make Sure you Are Ready for the Time Commitment

Animals want your attention.  If they aren’t getting the interaction they need, they will find other outlets for their energy.  These outlets can result in behavior problems such as destroying items and excessive barking.

Find out if the Animal is Spayed or Neutered.

It’ can be responsible and healthy to spay or neuter your animal. If you have no interest in bringing additional cats and dogs into the world, you should be prepared for spaying and neutering. 

Be Prepared to Tend to the Emotional Needs of a Rescue Animal.

Some rescue animals come with unknown histories or difficult pasts that include abuse or neglect. They may require some extra patience and TLC to overcome abandonment issues and fear of humans.

If you already are an animal guardian it’s important to remember to:

• Socialize your animal so that she is confident and comfortable in a variety of situations.
• Make exercise part of your furry friend’s daily routine.  Just like humans, animals need exercise to stay in good physical shape.
• Go for an annual wellness exam.  This way, your veterinarian can find issues and address them before they become chronic.
• Take senior animals for two wellness exams a year.
• Consider buying pet insurance to help with unexpected vet visits.