A Pet Owner’s Contract
1. I will give thoughtful consideration to all aspects of responsible pet ownership before adopting a pet into my life.
Think before you buy, and then, think again. It’s not fair to any animal for you to make a spur of the moment, ill-considered, spontaneous, “Aw, but it’s so cute” purchase of a pet. Pets require a commitment of time, energy, and money. Make sure you can afford all three in the proper proportions.
2. I will treat pet ownership as a lifelong commitment.
This is not something to try and see if it works out. Career alternatives for “used” dogs and cats are not plentiful.
3. I will spay or neuter my pet.
Period, end of discussion.
4. I will provide adequate nutrition for my pet.
Very easy to do these days, with many excellent pet foods available in feed stores and grocery stores. This means 99% dog or cat food, a few treats, and go easy on the table food. I only see nutritional problems when folks “spoil” their pets or when they just can’t say no to those big, sad eyes. Show some backbone. Your dog needs companionship and leadership, not an eating disorder partner.
5. I will provide adequate exercise for my pet.
Jogging, running, and playing fetch are all healthful for your dog (and for you, also). Climbing a carpeted cat tree, chasing ping-pong balls, or following a feathered cat teaser are good choices for your cat. Exercise is important to the animal’s physical and mental health, just like it is for people.
6. I will have my pet examined by a veterinarian regularly.
Preventative health exams should be performed at least annually on all pets, more often in some circumstances. Do not mistake vaccinations (just one aspect of health care) for complete health care. A lot of “shoot-n-scoot” vaccine clinics (the kind that set up in parking lots, bingo halls and such) provide shots only, but do not provide any physical examination, consultation, and preventative health care services. This is herd care, not health care.
7. I will provide adequate and regular grooming.
Longhaired animals can be stunningly beautiful when properly kept, or they can be a head-to-tail mat, a sorry and miserable condition. Failure to groom your pet is prima facie (a legal no-brainer) evidence of neglect under most cruelty laws. Fleas and ticks are facts of life where most of us live, and must be controlled. Wounds, lumps, bumps, and rashes must be seen and treated quickly, or bad things can happen. Check your pet’s skin regularly, and provide the right kind of brushing and clipping.
8. I will assume complete financial responsibility for my pet.
The costs of quality food, wellness care, grooming, and disease prevention are predictable and should be in your budget. Be prepared for the unexpected expenses: What would you do if your pet needed $1,000 worth of surgery? While this would be unlikely for the average pet, it is not unusual for hospitalization and surgery bills to be in the hundreds of dollars. Have either a small reserve fund, pet insurance, or a dedicated credit card for this sort of thing.
9. I will observe the habits of my pets and notice those which are abnormal or odd.
I cannot tell you how frustrating it is as a veterinarian to have an entire household that is clueless about the dog’s bowel, bladder, thirst, or appetite habits. I know it’s kind of gross and embarrassing, but it’s unbelievably important health information.
10. I will prevent my pets from damaging, harassing, injuring or pestering other people, pets, or property.
Your neighbors do not appreciate your cat soiling in their flowerbeds or your dog rampaging through the neighborhood. Neither would you. Moreover, some people will incorrectly take action against the poor, witless pet instead of the rude, witless owner. Training, pet containment, leashes, and common sense can prevent 99% of these problems.
