Whether you have just welcomed your first pup into your home or you’ve had your companion by your side for years, you should always make sure that you have taken the proper steps in keeping your dog safe and taken care of.
- Doggy I.D. Having your dog wear an identification tag is extremely important in case he/she is ever lost or ran away. You should be sure to have the dog’s name, your name, your home address as well as your cell/home number on the tag. It is also important to have your dog’s completed vaccinations on the tag as well, to be sure that, if found, the person is aware your dog is vaccinated and healthy.
- Microchip your dog. Having a microchip placed on your dog is a painless and safe way to easily identify your dog’s location in case they are ever lost. Speak to your local vet on the pro’s and con’s of placing a microchip on your dog and who they recommend to perform the procedure.
- Establish an emergency contact. Just like your children, you should always establish an emergency contact person to take care of your pup in case of a sudden emergency. This person should ideally be someone your dog has interacted with before, and is familiar with. You should also leave a list of care instructions for that person so they are aware of any allergies your dog may have, or other issues they may have that need to be watched.
- Take pictures. This sounds silly because of course you take pictures of your dog all the time for your office or fridge, but keeping an updated picture is crucial in case they are ever lost and a picture is needed to identify what they look like.
- Provide a loving home. This seems the most obvious way of keeping your dog safe, but sometimes it needs to be said over and over! Keeping your dog active, well-trained and loved is important for not only your dog’s happiness, but yours as well. Be sure that when you commit to getting a dog that you are fully aware of the responsibilities that come along with taking care and keeping them safe!