From 2016 the law will require that all dogs are microchipped and wear a collar bearing a secure ID disc or waterproof tag with clear contact details of its owner. Dogs are not permitted to circulate without their owners and can be seized as a stray under such circumstances.
Positive human and dog interaction for puppies is extremely important from the time they are born until they grow old if they are to be balanced, confident pets.
Young puppies grow when they are sleeping. They need vaccinations to protect them from serious illness, and regular anti-parasite treatments.
To be a responsible dog owner, you must commit to looking after your dog for the length of it’s life. This depends on the age and health of the dog at the time you get it. In the case of healthy young puppy, this is between approximately 12 to 15 years.
Dogs have a highly predictive nature based on their experiences – both positive and negative. Dogs thrive on positive training methods using rewards for the behaviours we would like them to repeat.
Don’t forget about your dog when you introduce a new member to the family. Never leave a dog alone with a child; always supervise dogs and children.
You can contact local dog rescue organisations in your area and offer to volunteer some of your spare time with dogs waiting to be re-homed.
Being a responsible owner is the most important consideration before buying, adopting or agreeing to own a dog. This involves an unwritten contract of appropriately caring for, feeding, protecting and sheltering your new best friend for up to 15 years and maybe more.
Research getting the ‘right’ breed of dog for your family so you know what to expect of the breed and if it fits with your lifestyle – it will avoid disappointments and guarantees a happy relationship with the dog.
In the UK, if a dog suffers or dies as a result of being left in a hot car, their owner or caregiver can be prosecuted for neglect or cruelty under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. Successful prosecution for neglect or cruelty can lead to jail time, fines and being banned from keeping animals in the future.