Do’s and Don’ts With Family Pets

UPDATED: Nov 14, 2013

“Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.” – Roger Caras, lifelong pet enthusiast (1928-2001)

Dogs and cats are miraculous creatures. One might argue that life is not complete without them. Whether you are a casual pet owner, an avid pet enthusiast or someone who admires them from afar – few people can deny the love and kindness that comes from those four-legged darlings.

Do you remember when your love for pets started?

In my household growing up, we always had at least two pets running around. My little sister, Cassaundra, was born with a love for pets that is incredibly contagious. So infectious that my mother could almost never refuse her when she came inside with yet another “adopted” sick pet to nurse back to health. We lived in the country (at the end of a dirt road) where stray cats and dogs were common. I’ve learned a lot about pets in the family over the years, including some pet do’s and don’ts.

While I go through my seven DO’S or DON’TS, I will also be sharing seven photos from a few Pet Health Central Facebook fans (thank you so much for sharing!) These photos represent precious childhood memories and an early love for pets. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.

1. DO: Take family photos with your pet. The memories are priceless.

2. DON’T: Leave your cat out of the holiday fun. Who says they don’t deserve a few new toys for Christmas or Mother’s Day (hint, hint)?

3. DO: Go for walks and play with your dog until you’re tired. If you wait for them to give up, you could be waiting all day.

4. DON’T: Try to play “kitchen” with your kitten. Cats don’t like to be stuck in a high chair for too long. 

5. DO: Lay on the floor and cuddle with your dogs once in a while. It’s cozier than you think.

6. DON’T: Sit down and relax (in your fanciest dress) without inviting your best friend to join you!

7. DO: Create millions of beautiful memories with your pets. They brighten up our lives!

What’s your favorite childhood memory with your pet? Share your story in the comments below, or post a picture on our Pet Health Central Facebook page.

-Photo Credit: Thanks again to Pam, Kelly P., Kelli, Hilary, Mary, Amy and Joy for sharing these beautiful photos. Feature image: by Kretyen.