What is a "responsible dog owner"?

Being a responsible dog owner means being responsible for one own dog, as well as showing consideration towards one's neighbours, and community.

Responsible pet care means providing:

• Food (healthy, well-balanced dog food)
• Fresh clean water
• Veterinary Care
• Immunisation (Rabies, Distemper, Hepititis, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza, Parvo, Corona)
• Parasite prevention/treatment (against fleas, ticks, worms, etc.)
• Elimination access (3-4 times daily for adult dogs)
• Grooming (brushing, bathing, etc.)
• Exercise, play, socialization and stimulation (backyard exercise is not enough)
• Companionship, interaction and affection
• Humane treatment & handling
• Obedience training (using humane methods)

Responsible dog owners also:

• Safeguard one's dog by leashing it when on public property
• Attach identification tags to dog's collar
• Abide by all local laws and ordinances petaining to pet ownership
• Spay or neuter their pet quality and mixed-breed dogs