September 19th was Responsible Pet Owner Day, which leaves us wondering what exactly does it mean to be a ‘responsible pet owner’? Are there certain rules that apply? Do they make you fill out a prescreening form at the animal shelter before you take a new pet into your home proving that you are responsible enough?

The idea of being a responsible pet owner can be interpreted many different ways. Just like when raising a child, people do things differently and believe conflicting views. Some people think that being a responsible pet owner means taking dogs on two walks a day. Others might believe that it simply means feeding them well and keeping them alive.

We are not here to tell you how to raise your pet, but there are a few tips that we can share to help you along your pet-parenting journey. We’ve been in the business of pets for many years and have learned a few things along the way. How about we share a few of those with you now? Thank you for following our blog! Enjoy!

You could find it helpful to do the following…

• When you suspect and issue with your pet, don’t let it go on too long without addressing it. Call your veterinarian and/or pick up a pet healthcare product at your local pet specialty store. There many products available that can help your pet.

• Know and understand your pets and what stage of life they are in. This can help you determine what might be best for him or her.

• Use your best judgment. If you think it’s not the most responsible thing to do, it probably isn’t.

• Try to be proactive. This goes back to bullet number one. There are ways to support your pet’s health. There are products in our Essential Pet line – exclusively available at PetSmart stores – that can help support mobility, skin and coat health and more. See our website com for a fill list of our pet care products.

• Don’t skip the veterinarian’s office. #SimonSays

• Have fun and maintain a sense of humor with your pets. Pets make us smile so often. Appreciate and embrace these moments as much as you can. Sadly, most pets don’t live as long as humans. Taking the time to show love to your furry friends is crucial to feeling like a responsible pet owner.

• Be aware of the weather and other ailments. You might want to read and understand important articles with tips about when to have your pets outside, how much water they need, or when to avoid prolonged activities in the heat or cold conditions.

• Keep dangerous foods and other poisonous things away from your pet at all times.

There are other great tips for being a ‘responsible pet owner’. These are just a few. Feel free to share your tips on our Facebook page! We’d be happy to hear from fellow pet-lovers like ourselves.

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