Teaching kids responsible pet ownership and more

MANILA, Philippines - The latest issue of The Bow & Wow Times reminds pet owners that pooches and feline home companions deserve to live a semblance of an acceptable life. Pet parents with the ability, time, and heart to care for a four-legged living being must show commitment and update their knowledge to give a lifetime of proper care.

Pets are not toys. As expressed in the Bow & Wow Times, pets are not commodities; they should not be “played with for only a while then left forgotten.” Nor should they be given as gifts to those who have not properly planned to take care of them.  Now if you have your heart set on owning a pup, acquire one from a reputable and responsible breeder.

The best place to adopt a pet is from a local animal shelter. In the Philippines, good options are the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) and the Compassion and Responsibility for Animals Welfare Philippines (CARA). Sad stories abound on dogs purchased from large-scale commercial dog breeding facilities that eventually develop severe illnesses and congenital or hereditary defects. Unsuspecting consumers are provided incorrect lineage and information about the dog’s health and breeder. Know more about puppy mills, the common health problems with puppy mills dogs, and how to discern if an online puppy seller is a mill, by perusing the article, “Puppy Mills 101.”

Also an interesting read is the feature article on “Why Animals Do Not Make Good Gifts.”  The intention of the gift giver may be good, but if there is no certainty that the re willing to give a lifetime of proper care to the pet, it may be better to hold off on such a gift idea. Browse the article, “Pets are People. Just ask `pet parents’” for some insights.

Must-read articles are “New Year’s Resolutions for You & Your Pet,” “3 Easy Steps to Teach Children Responsible Pet Ownership,” â€œSpaying And Neutering Facts,” “8 Major Changes in Pet Parenting History,” and the “2014 Pet Trends Forecast.”  Paying close attention to the essential vitamins & minerals your pet needs is vital. The article, “Vitamins and Minerals in Your Furbaby’s Diet” serves as handy guide in keeping your furry friend healthy from head to tail.

Bow & Wow has stores at Level 5 of Shangri-La Plaza Mall, Mandaluyong City;  lower ground floor of Greenbelt 5, Makati City; second floor, Al Fresco, Robinsons Magnolia in New Manila, Quezon City and at the ground floor of Excelsior in Eastwood City, Libis, Q.C.   

For information, visit www.bowandwow.com.ph.