It does not matter who you are or where you live; a pet can enrich your life, make you feel better and even improve your health. Living with a pet is good for your mental health, and living in the city should not stand in the way of getting a new four-legged friend.
It is true that living in the city creates some challenges for pet owners, but those challenges can be overcome. Some, like finding time to walk the dog or take the cat to the vet, are merely a matter of smart scheduling, but others are more serious. Overcoming the inherent health risks of keeping a pet in an urban environment can be daunting, but following a few common-sense safety tips can help a lot. Here are five ways to keep your companion out of harm’s way in the big city.
Acclimate Your Pet to the Action and Noise
A walk along a city sidewalk is bound to be accompanied by plenty of interesting sights and sounds. Car horns will be honking, pedestrians will be chatting, and patios will be bustling with activity.
While this vibrancy may appeal to you, it will take your pet time to develop a comfort level. Take your pet on walks exposing him to this aspect of city life early and often.
Invest In A No-Pull Harness
Invest in a sturdy harness. The city is full of distractions for curious dogs, not to mention plenty of irresistible smells. Whether you are out for a short walk or a long adventure, your dog will want to go its own way and go exploring. A sturdy harness is the best way to keep your pet safe and under control, so do not skimp on the quality or the construction.
Take The Time To Train
Make sure your pet is properly trained and socialized. Basic obedience training is a must for any city-dwelling pet, so make sure you invest in puppy kindergarten and other training opportunities. Before you venture out, your dog should readily respond to commands like sit, stay and come. This basic obedience training and socialization is essential to your pet’s safety, so pay close attention in puppy class.
Lock It Down!
Secure your windows and keep them locked. Not all dangers lie outside your apartment walls; something as simple as an unsecured window could become a tragedy for your pet. Make sure all the windows in your city home or apartment are properly secured, and that they have solid locks to prevent sudden opening.
Vaccinate
Keep their vaccinations current. The concentration of people and pets in the city make the transmission of disease easier and more likely, so keep your pet’s vaccinations current and never skip a scheduled veterinary appointment. You want to protect your pet, and yourself, from all those nasty city germs.
Avoid Certain Plants
If you have a green thumb and want to decorate your home be sure to do your research first. Many popular houseplants like jade, aloe vera and rosemary are poisonous to dogs. Cat owners need to stay away from lilies, carnations, daises and roses.
ID Your Pet
Make sure your pet is microchipped and wearing a collar and ID tag. If they ever get lost or are found wandering the complex, someone will be able to return your pet to you.
Living with a pet in the city can be a lot of fun, but you need to take your safety, and the safety of your best friend, seriously. No matter where you live, you want to make the best choices for your furry companion and that means investing pet insurance.