Before rescuing a dog, you need to know the responsibilities that come with it. There’s a lot that goes into being a responsible dog owner and that is why the American Kennel Club has set aside a day for responsible dog owners.
Karen Cottingham, an American Kennel Club-certified Canine Good Citizen instructor, and 3-month-old Bernadette, join us on the couches to talk about what is required to be a responsible pet owner and let us know about an upcoming event to encourage responsible dog ownership.
Karen says exercise and companionship are important.
“I often tell people who have one dog and they are having behavior problems, your best solution is to get a second dog so that your dog has companionship and playtime,” she says.
Karen says a responsible owner will have a well-mannered dog, which does not jump on new people, another dog, or knock down young children. Well-mannered dogs also need to be polite to other dogs and people.
On Saturday, Aug. 27, the Salisbury Maryland Kennel Club, which is part of the AKC, will hold “Responsible Dog Owners Day” at Winterplace Park in Salisbury. The event will promote and encourage responsible dog ownership to both dog owners and anyone thinking about getting a dog. Highlights include a dog walk, parade, and obedience demonstrations. Registration begins at 8 a.m. with the event taking place from 8 a.m.-noon.
The Humane Society of Wicomico County will be also be on hand with adoption information.
Proceeds from the dog walk go toward the purchase of protective equipment for police K-9’s, heat alert and door release systems, as well as small animal oxygen masks for fire departments in the tri-county area.
