We get it, you always want to do right by your furry friend. But even the most well-meaning pet parents can make a few mistakes. This is especially true for new pet parents who are still heading to Google every time their pet makes an unusual sound.
To help avoid potential emergencies, here is a list of seven mistakes every pet owner makes at least once:
1. Letting Your Dog Walk You
Walking your dog is one of the most critical parts of your dog parenting relationship. But this is also where many dog owners make mistakes. The most common is letting your dog walk you instead of the other way around.
Your dog might pull or veer off course. This will make it difficult for you to control the walk and create hazards for other people. Your dog pulling ahead can lead to tripping and a collision.
A daily walk is a bonding experience for you and your furry friend. Create a routine, choose a route, and plan treats to direct the walk and ensure your dog doesn’t take you down.
2. Always Keeping the Food Bowl Full
Understanding your pet’s nutritional needs can be challenging. One of the most common mistakes new pet parents make is keeping the food bowl full at all times.
The thing is, cats and dogs often eat more than they need. This can lead to a plethora of problems, such as:
- Weight gain
- Difficulty monitoring health
- Behavioral issues
- Digestive issues
Follow the serving size mentioned on the food label or follow your veterinarian’s advice. Moreover, ensure scheduled feeding to create a sense of routine and better health management.
Source: Freepik
3. Skipping Flea Medicine
Regular walks and adequate feeding are not enough to keep your pet happy and healthy. Flea and tick prevention is one of the most important aspects of dog care. Many pet owners skip giving their dog flea medicine, which leads to numerous issues. For instance:
- Intense irritation and itchiness, leading to excessive scratching and biting
- Skin inflammation
- Painful sores
- Internal parasites
In extreme cases, fleas can also spread diseases to people, such as bubonic plague. Fleas can also infest a home. Eggs on carpets, furniture, and pet bedding are difficult to eradicate, affecting the overall comfort of your home.
Consult with your veterinarian for long-term flea medication and set a reminder on your calendar to ensure your dog’s safety.
4. Making Cats Share a Litter Box
So, you’ve got more than one cat at home. They might stand at their food bowl, taking turns dipping their faces, or simply assume opposite sides when drinking from their water bowl. Your cats might settle on sharing toys and your affection, but never a litter box.
Multiple cats need multiple litter boxes. Here’s why:
- Cats are territorial. They might dislike sharing a space with other cats, especially when it comes to their bathroom needs.
- Multiple litter boxes will help you monitor the health of each of your cats.
- Multiple litter boxes will ensure cleanliness.
Consider using silica cat litter. These are gel crystals that can quickly absorb moisture and odor. Silica litter in multiple litter boxes will help ensure your cat’s health and safety.
5. Not Socializing Young Pets
Socializing young pets, like kittens and pups, is extremely important. Early socialization helps them become more confident and adaptable. Benefits of socialization include:
- Reduced fear and anxiety
- Reduced aggression
- Improved social skills
- More adaptable to unfamiliar environments
- Less stressful vet visits
Consult with a reputable breeder to determine the optimal socialization period. For instance, the critical socialization period for puppies is typically 3 to 16 weeks of age.
Start early and gradually. Use positive reinforcement and observe your pet’s body language. Never force your pet to interact with someone. Learn their preferences and keep socialization periods short.
6. Skipping Veterinary Visits and Preventive Care
One of the biggest missteps you can make as a pet owner is skipping veterinary visits. Waiting until something happens to schedule a vet visit can have a negative impact on your pet’s health. Regular primary vet visits allow you to catch small problems related to your pet’s weight, diet, behavior, and dental health.
Vet visits also help you stay on top of preventive care. Vaccinations against infectious diseases and parasite control (fleas and ticks) measures are essential for healthy living. Lastly, your vet can provide personalized guidance on nutrition and exercise to ensure peace of mind.
Source: Freepik
7. Leaving Your Pet in a Hot Car
Many pet parents make the mistake of leaving their furry friend in a parked car for only a “minute.” Remember that rapid temperature increases, even on a relatively mild day, can be deadly.
Pets can quickly overheat in a parked car and experience heatstroke. Symptoms include excessive panting, drooling, weakness, and even vomiting.
