Pets rely on us to look after them, so it is a big responsibility to care for them. It is important that a pet has an understanding owner who not only makes sure they get all the things they need to be healthy, but also makes sure they do things that make them happy too.
If our pets are unsafe then we’re not protecting them, if they are bored we’re not giving them fun things to keep them entertained nor suitable behaviours to practice. And, if they are in a draft (too cold), or too hot then their homes and environment are not right; and if they are lonely then we’re not giving them any company. All pets have basic needs – below is an infographic that illustrates these five needs. Consider if your pet has all their basic needs met and what more we can do to help them be safe, healthy and happy.
The five basic welfare needs are what every pet needs to live a healthy life in a happy home; we have a duty of care to each and every pet we look after to deliver upon these things. This includes not only what they eat, where they live, but who they live with – if they are a species that needs social interaction with others of the same species, such as rabbits and horses, then we must provide company. However, some animals prefer being alone, such as Syrian hamsters, so to mix them with others would likely cause fighting. However, many animals like hamsters, cats and dogs really enjoy the company of humans, so we need to ensure we are readily available and can provide regular positive human-animal interactions.
Consequently, this also includes being aware that the way we train and interact day-to-day with our pets can either enhance our bond, such as using positive reinforcement-based methods and excellent management, or may cause a breakdown in the pet-owner relationship where we may unwittingly or, in some cases deliberately, instil fear by using ‘traditional’ methods because someone may have suggested or we read on the internet that rattling a chain at our pet/spraying them with water/shocking them/yelling at/or scruffing them, was a way to tackle a problem behaviour!
If you have any questions about your pet’s needs, please do contact your veterinary surgeon. And, if you have a training or behaviour need then do get in touch. Alternatively, check out the list of registered practitioners under the Animal Behaviour and Training Council’s website at www.abtc.org.uk.
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Playing With Your Dog will help any dog owner work out the games that are best suited for their pet to play throughout his life, from puppyhood to old age. The book also shares some tricks for all ages, group activities, and recommended toys that dogs will enjoy.
