Basic Needs of Pets

Friendship, fun, love. Pets give us so much. But unlike their wild animal cousins they can't take care of themselves. Just like children need their parents, pets need people to take care of their basic needs. We're talking about things like food and water, shelter and indentification, potty needs, healthcare, exercise and grooming.

Before bringing home a new pet there are things you need to know to make sure your pet becomes a happy and healthy member of your family.

1. Food and water.

All pets need food and water. Most animals needs to be fed once or twice every day. Find that from veterinarian or pet supply store what kind of food you should give them.

Never ever give your pet table scraps. People food, especially chocolate, may taste good but it can make your pet very sick. And here's something really important: make sure your pet always has a bowl of fresh clean water available so they can get a drink.

2. Shelter and identification.

If your dog or cat spend a lot of time outside they need a place to get out on the hot sun in summer or cold and in winter. A fenced yard with a dog house or other shelter is great for dogs and provides a safe environment.

It is not okay to tie or chain your dog in he yard. Remember dogs are pack animals by nature. Your family is their pack and they want to be with you as much as they can. It's cruel to tie them up and leave them alone outside and it can lead to aggressive behavior. 

Animals that are treated like a part of your family are better adjusted and will have a closer bond with you.

Did you know that a collar or tags are more than just cool fashion accessories? Your pet can't tell people his name or where he lives. So pet every pet needs a collar with their license and ID tag that they wear all the time. If your pet ever gets lost that little ID tag is just like their ticket home to you. Ask you veterinarian about a microchip too.

3. Potty Needs.

Just like us, pets need a place where they can go to the bathroom. For dogs that means outside so be prepared to take them out for frequent walks. And clean after them, no one wants to step in your dog's poop! So scoop it up and throw it out.

Indoor cats use a litter box for a bathroom, and just like the bathroom you use it needs to be kept clean.  

4. Health care, exercise and grooming.

You want your pet to be around a long time, so don't forget about his health care needs. Pets need regular checkups with the veterinarian just like we need annual checkups with the doctor. If you are bringing home a new dog or cat one of the first things you should do is to take it to the Vet to get a thorough checkup along with the necessary vaccinations. 

To keep your pet healthy give them plenty of exercise. You need to walk, run or play fetch with your dog every day. It's fun and it's good for them… and you!

Cats, especially is they live indoors,  also love quality playtime with you and they benefit from the workout.

Grooming keeps your pet's coat healthy and looking great. Regular combing or brushing helps cats have fewer hair balls and shed less.

Dogs should be brushed often and have a bath about once a month. And don't forget to brush their teeth! Tooth decay can lead to many other health problems.

As you can see pets really need us to take care of them. It's a big responsibility. They need   food and water every day, shelter and identification, don't forget the collar and ID tag!, a place to go to the bathroom, healthcare including Vet checkups, grooming, tooth brushing and plenty of exercise. And there's one more thing to add to the list: Respect and kindness

Just like you pets have the rights to be treated with respect and kindness. They crave your attention and affection. So make sure your pet knows how much you love them. Give them plenty of hugs, kisses, ear scratches and belly rubs. The more love you give, the more they'll give back you in return.

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