Keeping Pets Happy

Whether you are an owner of a pet dog, cat, small animal, bird, reptile or even an outdoor animal then it is important to ensure their wellbeing.

These five simple steps can ensure that you have a ‘happy’ pet and their basic needs are provided effectively.

1. Adequate Nutrition and Fresh Water

Whatever pet you choose to keep, it is important that you as an owner provide them with the correct diet and ensure all their nutritional requirements are met. Fresh, clean water should be provided at all times and remember, some diets may be more demanding and if fed incorrectly can result in severe health problems.  

2. Clean Environment with Adequate Shelter

It is important whether you have an indoor or an outdoor pet that their environment is kept clean and free from faeces, urine, dirt and any hazards which could be dangerous or harmful to your pet. You should also provide safe and adequate shelter from the elements, whether this be heat, wetness, cold or wind. 

3. Frequent Health Checks, Maintenance and Pain Free

It is vitally important that you ensure there is a vet available for your pet, and that they attend frequent health checks so any problems can be treated early. You should keep your pet free from pain or injury, and if required seek veterinary attention.  To keep your pet happy you should also ensure that he is well groomed and maintained.

4. Mental Stimulation and Exercise

Whatever pet you own, or plan to own, you should provide them with mental stimulation and exercise.  This can be achieved by providing suitable toys and training games to keep an active mind.  Depending on the animal you may need to supply a large run if appropriate, or plenty of walks and games. 

5. Social Interaction 

It is important that you provide your pet with human interaction, not only so they become accustomed to us beings, but also as bonding time. This can also be interlinked with training games.  Depending on the species of pet, it is also good to allow interaction with the same species.  This is especially good for dogs, and remember some animals are social animals and should be housed together.