NATIONAL PET MONTH IS ALL ABOUT CELEBRATING THE JOY OF THE HUMAN/PET BOND.
Here are some things you can do this month to help your furry loved ones as well as those looking for homes.
Promote Responsible Pet Ownership
Start right at home by making sure your pet gets the appropriate care and love he deserves, but also share and gently educate others on what a responsible pet owner should do. Some things to keep in mind:
- Always spay/neuter your pet. It keeps them healthier and prevents unintended litters and more homeless pets.
- Engage your pet in healthy activities. From regular walks with your dog to playing cat-toy chase with your cat, your pet will be happier and healthier if they have active play every day,
- Commit to appropriate training. Cats can be trained to use the litter box, but they can also be acclimated to things like scratch posts and cat towers. Providing them the tools they need to be happy without compromising your furniture will keep both of you happier! For dogs, basic obedience classes can go a long way toward helping them behave well at home, on walks, and with new people.
- Make sure your pet has a way home. Make sure they’re wearing an ID with your name and phone number on it. If your pet isn’t microchipped, get them a chip. Most shelters and vets can provide this service for a small fee. If your pet has a chip, make sure the information on it is current and you have an alternate contact person.
Make the Most of Social Media
Make the most of social media this month by talking about your pets as much as possible. Post something about how your pet has changed your life and share things from your local shelter, including adoptable animals and volunteer and foster requests. You’ll be raising awareness not only of the ways having a pet has impacted you but also of homeless animals who are just waiting to positively impact the people in your world.
Show Your Pet You Love Him
You’re probably doing this anyway but make an extra effort this month and take your dog on an adventure to a new play spot or pick up some catnip toys for your kitty and play dangle and chase. Make your walks just a little longer or toss the ball a few extra times this month—it might be just a few more minutes for you, but your pup will certainly appreciate it.
Hire Pet Care Professionals
Pet care professionals spend their days running a business and caring for your pets. Ensuring you and your pet’s happiness is their top priority as a professional and as a business owner. A professional works on a schedule, which means your pet receive care at the time you scheduled. When seeking care for your pet, be sure to use a professional veterinary service, groomer or pet sitter/dog walker.
Pet Care Professionals have backup plans and sufficient insurance. You pay professionals to do things your way while giving specialized attention and care for your pet.
Volunteer
Animal shelters and rescues are always in need of volunteers, so pick up the phone and ask your local shelter what their most pressing current needs are.
If you don’t have time to commit to an ongoing volunteer commitment, participate in a fundraiser for a local shelter or rescue. If your local organization needs supplies check to see if they have a wish list for needed supplies.