UNCHAIN A DOG MONTH

January is a month to celebrate a dog's independence, because it is “Unchain A Dog Month”. Dogs love their freedom and independence just like we do ours.  Chaining a dog restricts their mobility and ability to frolic and play.  Although it is still our prerogative, as responsible pet owners, to keep them in chains, it may be wise to reconsider this option. Being tethered for long hours might affect your loved ones not only physically but also psychologically. We would like to provide you a list of some negative effects of prolonged chaining for you to think about.

1. IT MAY BE PHYSICALLY HARMFUL TO YOUR PET.

Chaining a dog for a reasonable amount of time may be appropriate as it could serve as part of their disciplinary training, or, it could prevent them from harming others within distance. However, it is not normal for them. Because they are not usually chained, they try to break free from the restraint. This struggle to free themselves may lead to some serious physical injuries especially to their neck and backs. They may also get tangled on their own chain and be unintentionally strangled.

2. IT RESTRICTS THEIR SENSE OF FREEDOM.

Just like us, dogs love freedom. They enjoy environments where they can run around and play. Psychologically, they have territorial tendencies that give them the impression that they are part of this world and that it is their own. Their environment provides them a sanctuary where they can befriend other pets like them and other dog-friendly humans. This is their sense of freedom – something they are accustomed to. Chaining them restricts this privilege of enjoying their surroundings.

3. CHAINING A DOG BRINGS OUT THE WORST IN THEM.

Chained dogs are more aggressive than the unchained ones, because they become conditioned to fight for their freedom. Chaining prevents them from playful interaction with others. It also promotes destructive behavior like chewing on objects or even biting their owners. It could also psychologically traumatize them making them detached and less friendly.

Join us this month and unchain your dogs!

Pet ownership is a major responsibility. It is not just about the benefits of having dogs or cats but more so a critical obligation that needs to be done properly. It is a two-way thing – a pet can keep you company and be your best friend, but you need to take care of it just like any human being that you care about. So before you get a pet, you should consider what it entails as far as time, money, and duties are concerned. Here is a list of the basic considerations before you commit to getting a FUR-riend, dog or cat:

1. Vaccine

- As soon as your fur babies are born, they are already capable of getting viruses that would affect their health and everyone else’s in the household as these germs can spread around. It is a crucial stage for newborn dogs and cats because they are more prone to diseases. This may be due to the limited nutrients coming from their fur-mothers. Vaccination is essential for your pets to protect them from these nasty invaders.

2. Human Food

- It is critical for you, as a responsible pet owner, to provide your pet’s dietary needs. Having that foundation would help you decipher what are the benefits and ill effects of a specific food. This is mostly applicable to your food- human food, being given to your pets. Like you, pets are also entitled to a proper diet. It is your responsibility to make sure that they are gaining the right amount of protein, carbs, fats, and all that would help keep them healthy. Also, if you are planning to change your pet’s diet, it should be done gradually because it could adversely affect their digestive system. 

3. How much and how often?

- Most pets would eat anything they are served. This is an important reason you should keep your eyes on your pet’s food. Keep in mind that each animal has its own unique needs, depending on its size and requirements. For example, a dog who weighs 50 pounds needs at least 700 to 900 calories per day. If you feed it more than that it could lead to obesity which can create more problems for both you and your beloved pet. On the other hand, a 10-pound cat only needs approximately 200 calories per day. Each pet has his/her own unique dietary requirements, much like human beings.

4. Emotional Well-being

- Animal trauma is one of the most under-emphasized issues in the animal world. There is a paucity of research done regarding this topic because pets cannot converse you their mental concerns, unlike human beings. According to some veterinary behaviorists though, animals experiencing this mental trauma are more likely results of an abusive environment and/or gross neglect from their owners. Manifestations include shaking, aggressiveness, sudden urination, among others are found in a traumatized pet. Dr. Frank McMillan, a veterinarian from Utah who specializes in animal mental health, said that desensitization could help animals to overcome anxiety. It is a process of exposing animals in a safe and non-threatening environment - somewhere they could feel the sense of belongingness. Safe spaces for your pets such as a hiding place may also make them feel comfortable and less traumatized. The best advice for proper pet mental health is to love your pets.

5. Exercise

- Exercise is important for your pets as it is important for human beings. It can help manage the weight of your pets. Fitness is also an important consideration for animals because there is an increase in the number of overweight pets through the years. Exercise teaches your pets proper discipline that can be beneficial for both of you in the long run. Time plays an important role in giving your pets the ideal routine, and it could also be your bonding moment with them. Have a walk or jog with them or even go for a swim. For cats, playing with laser point will also help them exercise as they run around trying to catch the beam of light. Play time for your pets is also exercise time for them.