Having pets is one of the best things that people can experience. However, pets need a lot of care, maintenance, time, money, and love. From food to grooming, fur parents are responsible for keeping their pets happy and healthy. It would help if you were ready and equipped with essential items for your pet’s needs.
Taking care of your pets does not only end in providing them shelter and food. As a fur parent, you will always need an item with you and your buddy at home or outside. It would help if you considered their health, hygiene, happiness, and safety. So, here are the 9 essential items a pet owner should have.
1. Essential Grooming Supplies
Your pets need regular grooming, and sustaining good hygiene habits also connects to keeping them healthy. Pet grooming services can be costly for some pet owners. However, there are affordable pet supplies and hygiene items for pets like:
- Brush
- Comb
- Coat spray
- Ear cleaning kit
- Dog or cat shampoo
- Dog or cat conditioner
- Nail clippers
- Toothbrush
Regular brushing is recommended, especially for cats and dogs with long fur. It would help if you also kept their claws trimmed to avoid wounds from their scratches. Pets also need regular ear-cleaning sessions to keep them away from ear mites.
2. Durable Collar
Collar’s main purpose is to bring an identity to your pet and avoid being fetched by local pet rescuers if your pet gets lost. You will also identify your fur baby in the crowd of pets if they wear a collar. Having a collar is an essential item not just for pets but also for their fur parents.
LED dog collars are also perfect if your pet likes to walk around at night. The light can help you spot your pet easier without a leash and warn vehicles passing by.
3. Leash and Harness
The leash is especially important if you have a dog. There are a variety of lengths, but the average length is six feet which is perfect for average size dogs. On the other hand, you will need a 16-foot leash for heavier and larger dogs. While for cats, 4 to 6 feet is the ideal length for a leash.
Leashes are meant to give your pet more leeway to roam around, especially when you walk them. Ensure the leash is attached to a body harness to avoid choking for both cats and dogs. A harness can help remove the pressure on your pet’s neck and have a normal breathing cycle.
4. Pet Tag
A pet tag must have your pet’s information like address, contact number, and owner’s name. The tag must be large enough to display the details clearly and may be put together with your pet’s collar. A pet tag will give you confidence, especially when your pet gets lost outside.
5. Reliable Carrier
A carrier would be essential when you travel a lot or take your pet to a vet. A closed container would help you avoid hassle and stress to your pet when you need to ride a car. Generally, a good carrier should have sufficient ventilation and enough comfortable space for your pet.
6. Comfortable Bed
You must provide a bed for your fur baby and place it in a designated area. The bed should be enough for the size of your pet and must match the weather. Even though most pets have their favorite sleeping area in your house, providing one is still essential.
7. Healthy Food
As a fur parent, one of your top responsibilities is providing your pet with healthy foods. Giving them the right food will help them stay happy and less sick. However, you can ask your local veterinarian and pet shop for your pet’s nutrition.
You can also ask for vitamins to help your fur baby against nutrient deficiencies. Always ask your veterinarian for supplements and vitamins appropriate for your pet at its age and medical history.
Also, your pet would be more satisfied and happy if there were treats. Every playtime or training snack and treat is a great reward for your pet.
9. Clean Bowls
There are different kinds of water bowls and food bowls for your pet. However, you should consider the kind of material the bowls are made of.
You can also get an automatic feeder recommended for fur parents working or not always at home. The automatic feeder has a bowl and container you will need to refill and set a specific time for the food to be dispensed.
You should get a water fountain for cat owners since cats don’t like still water and prefer fresh running water that they can drink.
10. Safe Toys
Playtime is a great way to bond with your fur baby. Providing them with toys they would enjoy also helps them release the excitement, and natural energy pets have.
Toys are especially helpful when you are out of the house, and your pet, especially dogs, can play with them when bored. You can also avoid furniture damage while your pet is entertained with toys. Eliminating the risk of danger for pets by giving them more appropriate things to chew or run with.
Some of the common toys for dogs are:
- Fetch ball
- Teething chew toys
- Plush toy
- Treat ball
- Frisbee
- Knots and tugging toys
- Woven
- Teething bones
For cats, the common toys that they enjoy are:
- Catnip toys
- Scratchers
- Wands
- Teasers
- Puzzle toys
- Climbing toys
Keep Your Fur Baby Happy And Healthy
Pets are treated as family members, and you want your families to get the best care and love they deserve. Aside from the things that keep them healthy and happy daily, your time spent with them is the most important. Giving them time and love is the best you can offer them.
