Mistakes are commonplace. While we are allowed to live down most of them, others can be harder to live with, especially for our pets. Here’s our top list of common mistakes pet owners should not make.

 

No exercise is a mistake

Pets need exercise to stay healthy. We can’t all boast the metabolism of a hummingbird, so activity is vital! Lack thereof can lead to obesity which can cause joint issues and respiratory problems. Speak to your vet about the appropriate amount of exercise for your pet.

Using negative over positive reinforcement

Pets learn better from a praise response. Where possible, reward them for doing something right rather than punishing them for doing it wrong.

Good cop, bad cop

Avoid inadvertently reinforcing negative behaviour by reacting positively to something your pet should not be doing. This includes laughing at something wrong they do that’s amusing or petting a pet to calm them, which is a reward for good behaviour.

Dropping the leash

A little bit of cute can go a long way coming from your pet. Remember, you are the parent, and it is a mistake to let your pet get away with things, just because they are the cutest thing on earth. Learn to say no and keep their manners on a tight leash.

Using synonyms

Don’t say “on the floor” when you mean “down” or “sit”. It’s a mistake to assume that dogs (or any other pets) are honorary scholars of the English language. Pets don’t understand synonyms. They learn through repetition, so pick one word for each instruction and stick to it.

Thinking what’s safe for you is safe for them

While feeding your dog off your plate is cute or giving cats milk like in your favourite cartoons is tempting – there are many fruits, veggies, beverages, and treats that are good for you, but toxic to pets. Even some of your favourite flowers can be deadly to your pet.

Not planning for the worst

We live in a beautiful world, but ugly things do happen. Not planning for the worst is another mistake pet owners make. Avoid this mistake by:

  • Putting your pet in your will: What will happen to your baby when you are not around to care for them?
  • Getting pet insurance: Protect them against illness or accidental injury.
  • Microchipping your pet: It could help in the event of your pet being stolen.