What constitutes ill treatment of pets? Is it just kicking your dog around? Or is there more to it than deliberate abuse? Well, you'll be surprised at just how much cause there is for complaint.

• To leave the animal unfed for long period of hours. This happens when the whole family steps out to work or school. The pet is fed little or nothing in the mornings. And has to wait till the family returns before it gets a full meal.

• To leave a young pet alone at home for very long hours. Is a young dog or cat really up to facing a day on its own? Behind locked doors, with no means of escape. Day after day, can it be alone for the major portion of the day? With no animal or human for company? Experts suggest you give the animal an access to the outside where it can romp around in the garden. It will be happier this way. An animal is not meant to live within four walls all day long.

• Your puppy has made a mess in the house. And you're upset about it. Don't vent your anger against it. Pets are like little children. They don't get a message too quickly. Neither are they in full control of their faculties. When you choose to have a pet, you must expect these things. You could however, get professional help to train your pets to do the right thing. But there still could be occasional accidents.

• Physical abuse is an absolute No-No. You cannot beat, kick or push your dog around. Don't use your strength against a small animal.

• Pets should not be teased, tormented or terrorised. Not even in play. They get confused and upset at such behaviour. Children especially think its funny to torment an animal during a game. The animal trusts you. Don't let it down.

• Who looks after your pet when you go out of town? There are professional kennel services that offer to care for your animals for a period of time. Avail these services. Or leave the pet with a person who knows it well and cares for it. Make sure your domestic help is reliable in pet care.

• Does your dog get sufficient exercise? A sedate lifestyle makes him restless and unhappy. Dogs need to go for long walks and play around to work off their energy. An active dog is a happy one. And vice versa.

• Most pets fear loud noises. Protect them from crackers, fireworks and such. A sudden burst of crackers could affect your dog's heart.

• Pets should be protected from dangers of traffic. They could get hit or run over very easily.

Treat your pet well. A pet should have a sense of belonging. A feeling of being wanted. A sense of security. It needs to be part of a family circle.

Post Comment

Name : Email : Password : Comments :