Good pet parents are a new breed of pet owners who make sure that they are armed with the best information and the best conditions to raise a happier, healthier, better behaved pet.
There isn’t really a secret–it takes research, preparation, hard work, dedication, and commitment.
Outstanding pet owners tend to all have similar things in common but to be a good pet parent there is an actual list of required actions that take place on a regular basis.
Think you know what they are?
To earn the label of a good pet parent I put together a list.
A Good Pet Parent:
- Obtains an animal from an ethical and responsible party, shelter, or organization.
- Researches pet ownership prior to getting an animal or immediately upon ownership.
- Feeds a nutritious diet so the pet will never suffer obesity or the complications from it.
- Integrates the animal into the family and household.
- Makes sure the animal always has good shelter and protection from the elements.
- Commits to wellness check-ups twice a year and obtains veterinary care as needed.
- Engages in regular grooming practices and professional care when necessary.
- Participates in animal school so that the pet is understood and so rules can be established for the health & safety of all.
- Complies with all applicable laws related to pet ownership and proper pet management.
- Makes sure that the environment is safe and secure to prevent pet escapes or against the danger of intruders.
- Enriches the environment and provides mental stimulation for the pet through enrichment, toys, play, & training.
- Ensures that the pet has daily exercise and physical activity.
- Understands the risks of unauthorized contact or harassment when out in public (both to and from others).
- Learns how to minimize risks when traveling with the pet and during encounters with others.
- Makes a lifetime commitment to caring for and housing the pet.
- Respects the animal for who and what that animal is.
- Does not neglect or abuse the animal.
Okay, so that is my list from a professional perspective. Why don’t you chime in with your list in the comments?
Photo Credit: itonys
So what is pet parenting and why is it important to those who have pets at home or those who provide services and products for pets?
Pet parenting is the sum total of all the things you do for a companion animal that joins your family.
Some people refer to themselves as pet owners, pet guardians, pet caretakers but the reality is that today, no matter how you refer to a person who has pets, those pets need parenting.
Pet parenting is the sum of all the efforts that go into making a pet a happier, healthier and better behaved animal.
It isn’t just one thing–which is why I use the term, “parenting.”
The funny thing is, that as long as animals have lived with us–few people actually get adequate coaching on just what activities are needed to mold an animal into living harmoniously with humans and their other animal pals.
People often think they know how do to this–but the reality is most don’t.
I want to make it clear that what I am going to talk about isn’t a reflection on whether or not you love an animal, or whether or not you take good care of an animal–it has to do with pet parenting skills (or lack of) and whether or not your have been lucky enough to have been taught these skills or made aware of them.
Answer these questions:
- Does your dog jump or paw on your or anyone else entering the home?
- Does your cat wake you up to feed him or her?
- Does your dog pull on the leash out in public?
- Does your cat disobey all your requests to stay off the counters or fail to listen to you altogether?
- Do you have to repeat commands over and over again before your pet listens?
If you answered yes to some or all of these questions–you need a pet parenting coach–because these are just tip of the iceberg issues.
Pet parenting is a lifestyle skill that you have to learn.
Most people grew up with family animals but that does not mean that they grew up with a skill set on how to manage, handle and care for a pet in the right way.
Times have changed–and so have our relationship with animals.
Isn’t it time you got the right information and the correct skill set so that everyone in your home is happy?
Wouldn’t it be nice if your pets would listen, feel more secure and so be happier while also being better behaved and healthier?
If you agree, I invite you to subscribe so you don’t miss the launch of the Pet Parenting School using the form above.
I’ll be touching on a variety of topics here and I know you won’t want to miss a thing!
Photo Credit: ReutC
Don’t miss this rare opportunity!
Join the early notification email list now !
Just a sample of what is coming…
- Learn how to understand animals of all types.
- Find the most progressive (and humane) techniques.
- Discover newly defined animal personality styles.
- Solve behavior problems quickly–using proven strategies.
- And Finally; ENJOY a happier relationship with your pet!