Happy, energetic pets serve as a source of tremendous joy for many animal lovers. However, pet ownership requires a significant investment of time, energy, and finances and is a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. The experienced team at Kapolei Pet Hospital in Hawaii believes all animals should be properly loved and cared for. Below, they share three must-read tips for responsible pet care.

3 Vital Pet Care Tips

1. Consider Your Space & Resources

Consider your home environment before welcoming a pet into your life. Small apartments are more conducive for low-energy animals or tiny dogs and cats, whereas larger pets generally require more space to run and play.

Additionally, don’t commit to more pets than you can feasibly support. While it might be tempting to adopt multiple new furry friends, pre-determine how many pets you can comfortably care for and don’t deviate from your plan.

2. Give Them Attention

Responsible pet care requires owners to properly train and socialize their animals. You’ll need to enroll your new pup in obedience classes or train them at home; similarly, a cat also needs guidance on what constitutes acceptable behavior. Additionally, as regular socialization and exercise are essential for healthy pets, dog owners in particular should seek out play dates or consider interactive daycare options for their furry friends.

3. Engage in Preventative Care

To ensure a long, healthy life for your pet, make sure your dog or cat stays current on all veterinarian-issued shots and immunizations. In addition, stock up on flea, tick, and heartworm medicine, and administer scheduled doses on a monthly basis. Lastly, unless you plan to breed your pet in the future, protect your animal by partnering with a trusted clinic to determine the best time and age to spay or neuter them.

If your dog or cat is due for a wellness exam or you’re simply seeking pet care tips and tricks, reach out to the friendly staff at Kapolei Pet Hospital. Led by experienced veterinarian Dr. Yoko Haneda, this pet clinic specializes in routine services like spaying, neutering, and vaccinations, as well as advanced treatments like dental care and stem cell therapy. For an appointment, give them a call today at (808) 462-8040, or visit their website to peruse their services and offerings.