A guide to responsible dog ownership:
- Never let your dog off the lead near farm animals. A farmer has the right to intervene if the dog is causing the animals distress.
- Never leave dogs in cars, even in mild weather. Dehydration can lead to death. They are also at risk of being stolen.
- Always put your dog in a crate or a suitable seat belt harness when travelling.
- Register your dog with a vet and go for regular checks ups and inoculations.
- Treat and check regularly for fleas and worms.
- Never leave your dog tied up outside a shop, they can be stolen or become tangled up
- Train your dog to be sociable, it is never too late.
- Groom your dog regularly and keep them clean.
- Wooden sticks can cause serious injuries, even death. Choose a throw toy wisely.
- Feed your dog at regular times with a nutritionally balanced diet, adjust the diet as and when necessary.
- Neutering is always advisable unless you want to breed from your dog.
- Always clear up after your dog, wherever it is. Scoop the poop.
- Stop your dog from barking unnecessarily as this can become a nuisance for your neighbours.
- Make sure someone responsible looks after your dog when you are away and that they have the relevant contact details (your vets and the animal warden for example).
- Make sure your dog is wearing an identification tag when in a public place, it is the law.
- Check that any identification product your dog has (be it a microchip or ID tag) is kept up-to-date (with the owners current mobile number, address and so on).
- Make sure your dog does not approach other people or dogs on leads without permission.
- Always keep your dog under proper control.
