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When we get a dog as a new member of the family, it is important for them to feel like they are the actual part of the group. What you can do is show them how important they are to you. While it's true that they can't understand what we are trying to say, physically our message should be clear.
Like humans, our pets need attention as well. If they lack attention they'll feel left out and it can negatively affect their behavior. They need all that attention because their world revolves around us. It's time we pay their unconditional love with the needed attention and make them feel they are part of the family.
Below you'll find a few tips on how to make the most of your time with your pet and make them feel like they are part of the pack.
Take Them Out for Walks
If you have a backyard, letting them play in the backyard and do its business doesn't count as it isn't spending quality time with your pet. When we take our pet out for a walk, we are not just letting them explore the world with us, we are spending quality time with them.
Position Their Bed Strategically
If you want your pet to feel like they are part of the pact, you need to position their bed where most of the family activities occur, unless they are older and need quiet time. In this case, you need to have two beds, one in the living room and one away from the noisiest area of your house so that they can have some quiet time.
Allow Them to Bond with the Family
Planning to go out on a holiday? It is important to not leave them behind. Allow them to enjoy the same experiences as you do. If you're going to the beach, take them with you. Additionally, finding dog-friendly accommodations are not as hard as they were before. There are lots of dog-friendly spots and destinations, log cabins, campsites to travel with your dog and make the most of the time together.
Look After Their Health
It is important to take your dog to regular checkups. As most of us know, dogs age 6 to 7 times faster than humans. Therefore they need to be regularly monitored by visiting their veterinarian at least once a year to catch potential issues before they become a bigger problem. It might be a good idea to visit the vet with the rest of the family, so everyone will know what is good for your pet and what they should be careful with.
Feed Them Well
If you are careful with what you put into your body, you should also be concerned with what foods you put in your pet's mouth. Aside from dog food as their staple food, you should also make them feel special by making meals such as boiling chicken, making steaks, or even making doggy cakes.
Don't overdo it because you don't want your pet to gain a lot of weight, but a little something once in a while for good behavior won't hurt and it makes them feel like family.
Our pets want love just like the rest of us. When we bring one home, it is important to let them know that they are an important part of your family.