Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Got A Little Buddy?

A very laid back Bull Mastiff! What a clown!
The handsome fella holding that interesting cat is my son Charles. The cat's name is Fluffy!  Yep, I know, the cat doesn't have any hair...he's a hairless and the sweetest cat I have ever met!  Charles and Jon have another little pet, Booger.  Booger is a little jet black dog who probably weighs in at about five pounds.  He appears to be a mix of Jack Russell Terrier and Chihuahua.  Another sweet animal.

They are being made famous by HGTV artist David Bromstad, who did two really great paintings of them that are now available for sale. 

Booger
Fluffy!


My little Buddy is a Boston Terrier, and one of the sweetest animals I have ever known.  I have had many dogs throughout my lifetime from chihuahua's (Bitsy - meaner than snot!), to Great Danes (Rebel, the clumsiest, silliest ever!) and several German Shepherds.  I just love animals, and dogs in particular!
Smile Buddy!


Right now my granddaughters have a little kitty they just love to pieces.  But, I digress....the real point of today's blog is to say - if you have a pet, any pet, you need to be a responsible pet owner.  I don't care if you own a gold fish, you need to find out what that little creature needs and take measures to make sure it happens.  Dogs and cats need regular visits to the vet.  I know, it isn't cheap, but if you can afford the pet you can afford the vet!  Vaccinations are important for the health of your pet as well as your family. 

Being a responsible owner also means that you need to properly train your animal so that he/she is not a disturbance to others.  You need to always clean up after your animal when you walk him on property which doesn't belong to you.  Carry some little "doggie bags" and properly dispose of the waste.  Your neighbors and friends will appreciate your conscientious care of your animal.

Above all, socialize your animal.  No one likes a dog who jumps up, snarls, or even bites.  Cats can also be a problem, so I am not just talking to dog owners.  You and your animal can have a long and happy life together, and it will be so much easier if you take the time to properly train your animal.

Be sure and investigate the proper care and feeding for each breed of animal.  A Great Dane certainly doesn't eat the same type of food as a Chihuahua.  Some breeds have sensitive stomachs, such as my little Buddy.  Some foods including but not limited to, grapes, onions, and chocolate can POISON your dog.  Be responsible and check it out.  Talk with your vet to determine the best way to feed (and not overfeed) your pet.

So, all that being said, ENJOY your little Buddy or Frankie, or Fluffy...and here are a few tips
to follow..... and don't be afraid to take on a RESCUE animal...they have been real treasures for me and many of my family and friends.  Give one a home...you won't be sorry you did.

Here are some tips from Canine Crusaders....



Responsible Pet Owner
Being a responsible pet owner is much more than just providing adequate water, food and shelter for your pet. Domestic pets are completely dependent on their owners for their welfare.

• Owning a pet is a lifetime commitment. If you can't make the commitment, don't get the pet.

• Choose a pet that fits your lifestyle. Don't get a high energetic dog, if you don't have the time to exercise him. If you can't afford grooming or can't do the grooming yourself, pick a low maintenance dog.

• Spay or neuter your pets. There are too many homeless animals without adding to the problem.

• Don't make your dog a "backyard dog". Dogs strive on companionship and need to be with their human pack.

• Be aware of weather conditions. Leaving your dog in the car on a hot day or in the yard without shade or water is risking your dog's life.

• Make sure your home is "pet" safe. Pesticides, medications, household cleaners and some houseplants (dieffenbachia, philodendron, hyacinth, and mistletoe) can be deadly to your pet. Keep them out of reach.

• Provide veterinary care for your pet. Keep their vaccinations up to date and make sure they have annual checkups.

• Keep identification tag on your pet... it is your pets ticket back home. Both dogs and cats need ID!! Microchipping is good too, but an external tag is essential, it could mean the difference of your neighbor returning your pet to you or turning him into the pound!

• Obedience train and socialize your animal.

• Don't let your pets run loose. Dogs should be walked leashes. Any outdoor off leash access should be secure in a fenced area. An outdoor cats average lifespan is 3 years, an indoor cat's average lifespan is 14 years.

• Provide your pet the proper diet. Obesity can be as deadly as malnutrition. Be aware that some foods can be deadly, such as chocolate, and fatty foods can cause pancreatitis.

• Make sure your pet get proper amount of exercise.

• Take extra precautions during holidays like Fourth of July. It is the scariest time for pets, make sure your pets are secure indoors. Also protect your pet during Halloween.

• Be kind to your pet and show him with love... remember you are his world.

• Take special care of your pet during their senior years
     

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