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We must preface this article by saying we think responsible pet ownership is a year-round event. However, Responsible Pet Owners Month is an excellent way to raise awareness that it’s a serious undertaking to own and raise an animal. It involves a time and financial commitment to see to the welfare of another living being. Cultural and societal changes make this observance appropriate even more so today.
It also coincides with other national awareness campaigns, such as Spay/Neuter Awareness Month and National Pet Dental Health Month. All of these events, including Responsible Pet Owners Month, occur during the month of February every year.
History of Responsible Pet Owners Month
The history of Responsible Pet Owners Month is unclear. It undoubtedly began as a grassroots effort that took off with the rise of social media. The important thing is its message. Pet shelters take in roughly 6.3 million animals annually, and nearly 15% are euthanized. Behavior problems are a common reason. While some are unavoidable, many pets suffer needlessly.
The goal of Responsible Pet Owners Month is to remind people of their duties and obligations. The humanization of the pet industry has been a boon for companion animals. About 95% of pet owners consider them as family members. The outcome is evident with nearly 20% fewer euthanasia today versus figures from 2011.
However, responsible pet ownership involves more than avoiding relinquishment. It’s the day-to-day care that makes a difference. It’s about the quality of life for our animal companions and the things that are necessary for their physical and mental well-being. That includes routine maintenance, veterinary care, and regulation compliance.
Yet, the scope is broader. It also means proper training, socialization, and pet etiquette. These elements make the pet-owner relationship less stressful. It also reduces conflicts with everyone involved, including non-pet people. Cleaning up after your dog is a common courtesy that is worth repeating. We applaud the lessons that Responsible Pet Owners Month reinforces.
How to Be a Responsible Pet Owner
Understanding your duties is essential. They include obvious things, such as feeding your pet and giving them water. However, it’s a lifelong commitment. Some animal companions, like parrots, can live decades, underscoring this statement. It begins with seriously considering your decision to invite a pet into your home.
We recommend researching the species and breed before getting a pet. Some animals are better suited to family life than others. Some need attention and may otherwise develop separation anxiety. Getting a pet susceptible to this condition is cruel if you can’t commit to the time they will need. We also suggest learning an animal’s need for mental stimulation.
Intelligent animals need enrichment for their mental well-being. Wild species flex their mental capacity with hunting and navigating their world. Indoor pets lack this same stimulation. Your responsibility is to provide it, whether with walks in the neighborhood, interactive toys, or interaction with playtime. It also means protecting pets from themselves.
For example, dogs have the emotional capacity of a 2.5-year-old child. They may have some problem-solving skills but may lack the knowledge and experience to know what is potentially harmful to them, such as certain people foods or electrical cords. In many ways, pets are like having a toddler in the home. You have to supervise them.
Responsible Pet Owners Month reminds individuals of their societal obligations. It’s your job to socialize your companion animal properly so they don’t endanger others. It’s your duty to follow local regulations for licensing your pet and keeping them up to date on vaccinations. You must also ensure your pet isn’t roaming the neighborhood without supervision.
Responsible pet ownership includes planning for unpleasant yet necessary matters, such as emergency preparation in case of natural disasters or emergencies. You must also figure out what happens to your pet if something happens to you. That’s particularly true for long-lived animals, like parrots.
Conclusion
Responsible Pet Owners Month is an excellent time to renew your commitment to your animal companion’s health and well-being. It’s one of the best gifts you can give the kitty, pup, or whatever animal you have at home. It shows how much you care for them, but it’s also a statement to your neighborhood and community that you understand your obligations as a pet parent.
Featured Image Credit: Gerain0812, Shutterstock
