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Responsible Dog Ownership Month

September is Responsible Dog Ownership Month

Dog ownership isn't for everyone; and it requires a 10-15 year commitment. It will require more than toys and healthy pet foods. It will require a nurturing living environment; emotional bonding time; and a place to run and play.

As you may have guessed, dog exercise is an important aspect to the growth and well-being of all pets and is essential for proper health, happiness and longevity of life. Without adequate levels of activity, dogs risk suffering from cardiovascular diseases and other health issues including diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, hip dysplasia and respiratory disease.

fuca-2491995-1920.jpgThis Responsible Dog Ownership Month, Deerbusters asks dog owners to consider puppy fencing.

You may see changes in dog behavior and moods allowing your dog to become destructive and restless. Think about it: After sitting at your work desk all day, don't you need a chance to burn off steam and stretch at the gym? It's the same for a dog. Dogs have tons of energy; and if they don't have a way to burn off that energy with activity, they will find ways to entertain themselves, often at the pet owner's expense. 

Pet owners will need to evaluate their lifestyles; and make changes, if needed. For dog owners living in urban settings, consider taking your dog to a dog park for socialization with other dogs; or walk/jog with your pup throughout the city. [Keep dogs on a leash at all times.] Or, when gardening at home, know what plants are pet-friendly and the types of plants that are toxic for dogs and cats. 

Occasionally, pets may encounter confrontational exchanges with wildlife. Make sure your pet is securely behind a yard fence that will protect them from wild animals or strangers that may try to hurt the dog or kidnap them. Coyotes, even deer, have been known to attack small dogs. Consider a wildlife fence that is at least 6 feet high to avoid pet-wildlife conflicts.

Tips For Owning Dogs

  • Although age and breed may vary, active breeds need a minimum of 30 minutes of daily outdoor playtime. If dog owners own hunting dogs, herding dogs or working dogs, they will need the most exercise, around two hours! As your dog moves from being a puppy to an older dog, he/she will need at least one hour of movement.
  • If you live in a state that has extremely hot or cold temperatures, keep outdoor play to a minimum. During hot months, make sure your dog has plenty of water and shade. During colder months, find ways to play with your dog indoors. Both snow and hot pavement will impact how the dog feels and can damage dog foot pads.
  • Give your pup plenty of toys that they can take outside. Go ahead; spoil them!
  • Stay active with your dog. Run around the backyard with them; throw a ball or Frisbee; or simply take a walk with them by your side. Interaction creates a growing bond between pet owner and pet.
  • Adopt a second dog from an animal shelter or rescue center; so, the dogs can play together.
  • Adopt an older dog - senior dogs have plenty of years left to live and love.

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