American Kennel Club
Owning a dog is a rewarding experience but it is also a big responsibility. That’s why the American Kennel Club celebrates AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Days each year throughout the month of September. Being a responsible dog owner means choosing the right breed of dog for your lifestyle and knowing that the choice to get a dog is a lifelong commitment, and everything else in between.
– Train Your Dog
All dogs need to be properly socialized and trained.
– Pick Up After Your Dog
Always carry a plastic “baggy” or two with you when you walk your dog to pick up any waste it leaves behind, then dispose of it properly. Failure to clean up after your dog is disrespectful to your neighbors and in some places, against the law!
– Exercise
Dogs, especially those with limited indoor space, need regular exercise to ensure that they don’t become destructive. Taking your dog for walks, visiting your local dog park, throwing a ball around – anything to get your pooch moving will prevent behavior problems.
– Microchip Your Dog
In addition to wearing an ID tag, your dog should have permanent ID in the form of a microchip. The size of a grain of rice, and implanted in between your dog’s shoulders, it will increase the chances of your dog being returned to you if he is lost or runs away.
– Get a License
Make sure your dog is licensed in your city and remember to renew it annually. Attach your dog’s license tag to his collar. Licensing contributes to animal control and the protection of the public health.
– Beware Pet Theft
Don’t tie your dog outside a store or leave it in your car. This practice can be a recipe for disaster as pet theft is on the rise nationwide. If you need to go shopping, patronize only dog-friendly retailers or leave the dog at home.
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Additional tips can be found on the American Kennel Club Web site at www.akc.org.