| As any dog owner knows, having a pet means a lot | | | | come spayed or neutered, but there are many |
| of love, but a lot of work. In order to have a pet | | | | resources that make this affordable for dog owners. |
| that is well trained and healthy, you must care for | | | | Reach out to your local human society for |
| your dog properly. That means routine check-ups by | | | | inexpensive rates on spaying and neutering. If you |
| a veterinarian, as well as the daily care of walks, | | | | have the money, then opt to have your dog spayed |
| feeding and playtime. When it comes to dog care, | | | | at the veterinarian's office using a laser, which is less |
| there are a few basics that every dog owner should | | | | painful and invasive for the dog. |
| follow, no exceptions. | | | | Ideally, you want to have a large, fenced in backyard |
| When you welcome your new pet to the family, | | | | for your dog to play in. Yet with all the dog owners |
| make sure that he is properly tagged, meaning that | | | | living in condos, apartments and townhomes, this |
| he wears identification that can be visibly seen if he | | | | simply isn't always the case. If you don't have a large |
| becomes lost or escapes from the backyard. A collar | | | | yard for your dog, make sure he gets out to the |
| with an identification tag is best and should include | | | | dog park or on regular walks and runs through the |
| your name, address and phone number. For added | | | | forest preserve. |
| protection, opt to have your pet microchipped by | | | | Another important part of dog care is feeding your |
| the veterinarian. The microchip can then be detected, | | | | pet a nutritionally balanced diet, so make sure that |
| even if your pet's collar comes off, and you can be | | | | you discuss with your vet the best choice of food |
| reunited with your pet. | | | | for your pet. There is special food for puppies and |
| In order to protect your dog, make sure she is | | | | senior dogs, as well as vitamins your dog may need. |
| vaccinated against common pet-related diseases, | | | | Also remember to always have fresh water available |
| such as rabies, ticks or heartworm. Besides getting | | | | for your pet. |
| routine shots and medication, dogs also need regular | | | | Finally, be sure that you shower your pet with lots of |
| checkups by veterinarians, who can listen to their | | | | love. Dogs that receive regular attention and |
| heart and check for other ailments. | | | | socialization are happier, healthier and nicer pets. If |
| An important part of having a dog means getting him | | | | you feel that you and your pet could use a bit more |
| neutered, preferably as a puppy. Most dogs do not | | | | guidance, opt to join a training class. |