Responsible ownership
Responsible ownership
It’s incredibly important to us to keep the dogs in our workplace happy and healthy, and to ensure all owners are practicing responsible ownership. Make sure that your dog is up to date on their vaccinations, that your microchip information is current, that your dog wears a collar and tag while outside the house, and that your insurance covers your dog in a workplace environment.
Vaccinations, flea, tick and worm treatment
Vet care is essential for your dog and every dog should be registered with a local vet. Dogs must be kept up to date with vaccinations, worming, flea and tick treatments, and have regular check-ups. For dog owners on a low income, the PDSA, Blue Cross and RSPCA may operate subsidised vet care in your area.
Puppies are normally vaccinated at 6-9 weeks old and then again at around 10- 12 weeks old. This should be checked with your vet. Vaccinations cover dogs from distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis and leptospirosis, all of which can be highly infectious to other dogs, costly to treat and fatal. For some diseases, an annual booster injection will be needed to maintain immunity. Contact your veterinary surgeon to discuss vaccination timings and protocols for your dog.
Your vet may also recommend a kennel cough vaccination depending on your dog’s lifestyle. Contact your veterinary surgeon for further information. Dogs need regular flea, tick and worming treatment. Lungworm is particularly dangerous and can be caught from eating snails and slugs that can carry the parasite. Contact your vet for advice on what treatment is needed and how often.
Pet Insurance
Pet insurance is extremely important for all dog owners. It will help manage unexpected veterinary fees whilst ensuring the best care for your dog. Many vets offer payment plans where the cost of all preventative health care for your dog is split into monthly payments, so check with your vet about the payment options available to you.
Collar and tag
When in a public place, all dogs must wear a collar with the name and address of the owner inscribed on it, or a plate or badge attached to it. It is an offence not to comply and you could be liable for a fine. A collar and tag will ensure that any member of the public or local dog warden can return your dog straight away and avoid your dog being impounded. Additionally, in Northern Ireland, The Dogs Order 1983 requires that all dogs are licensed.
Microchipping
Microchipping It is a legal requirement for all dogs to be microchipped, with the keeper’s details kept up to date. This guarantees that an owner can be traced quickly and the dog returned should they go missing. To update your details contact your microchip database. If your dog is lost or stolen, inform the database and your local dog warden immediately.
Car safety
Dogs need to be suitably restrained in a car so that they cannot distract or injure you or themselves whilst you are driving. You can use a dog guard, crate or a properly fitted car harness to secure them.
Make sure that the commute is comfortable for your canine companion. Find out how to get them used to journeys in the car or by public transport.
