Security of Animals in homes

It is essential that pet owners carefully consider the safety of their pets. Below is a list of some essential security precautions you should take.This list is not complete and extra precautions should be taken as and when the circumstances require.
Animal lovers don’t have to compromise on home security. It is a general misconception that pet owners shouldn’t invest in home security systems, because pets and alarm sensors don’t mix well.

Dogs : You should never leave your dog alone in the car. It can cause distress if the dog is left for long periods which could be fatal in hot weather, and secondly, your dog is a target for thieves.
Do not tie your dog up outside shops.
Never kennel a dog for extended periods in the garden. It is advised against kennelling animals in a garden, but if you do so, it is a must to ensure they have adequate security and are provided with food and water.
Your dog should be microchipped. A microchip is a very small chip, about the size of a grain of rice inserted between the shoulder blades. The cost of microchipping your animal is minimal.

Cats: If you have your cat from a kitten, keep them indoors as long as you can up to the age of 1, this is well after males have been neutered and will ensure he is a home loving cat and uninterested in straying, where he may get lost or hit by a car. Never leave your cat outdoors when you are not at home. It is important your pet always has access to water and shelter.

5 mantras of effective dog raising

Dedicated dog parents are some of the most incredible people in the world. But even the most caring people sometimes do things that just aren’t in the best interests of their four-legged companions. Don't do these things to your dog.

1. Don't leave a dog alone in the car
In the warmer months, a car can quickly become a greenhouse of sorts and cause your dog to become extremely lethargic, overheated and sick. If left alone for too long, a dog can even die. In the winter months, a car acts as a refrigerator and can have equally scary consequences. And no matter the weather or season, a dog alone in a car is a target for thieves. Dogs should never be left alone in a vehicle unattended.

2. Don't make a dog live outside
Yes, all dogs should have access to the outdoors. Yes, sometimes it is perfectly fine to let dogs outside for a period of time as long as the weather is good and the dogs are supervised. Dogs should never be forced to live outside year round. Dogs need human interaction and stimulation. A bored dog is an unhappy dog. Being left outside is unfair and unhealthy.

3. Never neglect your dog's teeth
Experts say that although daily tooth brushing is advised for dogs and cats, only 2 percent of dog owners follow through. In addition, 65 percent of dogs with stage one periodontal disease often go untreated. Always have a veterinarian check your dog’s teeth at least once a year and prior to starting any home-based dental regimen. Get into the habit of regular dental care. A child’s toothbrush is best for newcomers and dogs with smaller mouths. A fingertip toothbrush is also acceptable for starters. Never use human toothpaste on a dog. Why? They can’t spit, and there are ingredients in many human toothpastes that can make a dog sick.

4. Never ever hit a dog
Putting your hand(s) on a dog as a form of punishment is wrong. It will harm your relationship with your dog and prevent proper training. When you hit a dog, you teach him to fear you, break his trust, and you weaken his confidence. Insecure dogs are the ones who are more likely to lash out in an aggressive display.

5. Visit Veterinarian regularly
There are some people who believe they can self diagnose their dog’s issue online and not seek veterinary care. There is a time and a place for online research or to look up additional medical information for a beloved pet. But if a dog acts out of the ordinary or there are any health concerns, seeking veterinary care is of utmost importance. Never take medical matters into your own hands.