Responsible Pet Ownership

Be a Responsible Pet Owner

The first step to responsible pet ownership is doing your research before getting a pet. Find a pet that fits your family’s lifestyle and make sure you have the resources to care for him for his entire life. Most importantly, don’t support harmful and unethical breeding practices when getting your pet. Learn more about finding your new best friend responsibly.

Pets rely on us to provide them with everything they need to live a happy and healthy life. When you are a responsible pet owner, you and your pet will enjoy a lifetime of love and companionship. Follow these essential tips:

Before Getting a Pet

Pet Health

Everyday Care

Pet Owner To-Dos

Before Getting a Pet

A Little Research Goes a Long Way...

One of the most important steps in being the best pet owner possible is finding out what you need to care for your pet before you adopt them. Select an option below to find out how to prepare for your new best friend. 

Choosing a Pet

Cat Tips

Dog Tips

Other Pet Tips

Your Pet's Health

Veterinary Care

Just like you, your pet needs regular dental and health checkups. Provide your pet with the veterinary care they need, including physical exams, sterilizations and up-to-date vaccinations. This ongoing care will help keep them healthy and help prevent costly emergency care in the future.


Insure Your Pet's Health

Always be prepared to cover the cost of emergency medical care for your pet. A pet insurance plan can help bring you peace of mind and ensure that your pets will get the care they need when they need it most. Learn more about pet insurance.

Emergency Plans

Spaying/neutering your pet not only helps prevent homeless and unwanted animals in our community, it also has many health benefits for your pet! 

Help prevent the suffering of thousands of unwanted pets by doing your part: spay/neuter your pet.

Contact a veterinarian for professional advice – the sooner the better. Your veterinarian can fully explain spay and neuter procedures to you and discuss the best age at which to sterilize your pet. You can also call the City of Ottawa Spay/Neuter Clinic  at 613-798-8970.

The OHS offers subsidized spay/neuter services to qualified clients and cats in Ottawa through the Mobile Spay/Neuter Clinic.

Cats, dogs and rabbits adopted from the OHS are spayed/neutered.

If your pet has one litter, even if you find homes for most of the puppies and kittens, in one year, all the puppies or kittens could have litters of their own. Millions of dollars are spent annually to care for lost, abandoned and unwanted pets.

Benefits of Spaying/Neutering

  • Reducing the tendency in male cats and dogs to roam;
  • Eliminating the inconvenience of the heat cycle in female dogs and cats;
  • Providing better health in both male and female dogs and cats;
  • Eliminating spraying in most male cats;
  • Facilitating training; and,
  • Qualifying your pet for a reduced municipal license fee in Ottawa.

Some pets or people may be allergic to flea saliva, which causes flea allergy dermatitis (think super-itchy spots with hair-loss); young, sick or elderly pets can become anemic from too much blood loss.

These wingless insects are capable of jumping long distances. While cat and dog fleas prefer to feast on animal blood, they will turn to a human host if needed.

The lifecycle of a flea has four stages:

  • Eggs, which fall from the host into the environment
  • Larvae, which live off of the fallen fecal matter of adult fleas found in carpets and in lawns.
  • Pupal stage, which is the cocoon. They do not emerge until a host is detected (via warmth / vibration)
  • Adult stage, which feasts on blood.

If you do have a flea infestation, it is important to treat the pet’s environment as well to eliminate flea eggs and larvae.

There are many over-the-counter and prescription-only products that help solve flea problems.

Over-the-counter: Flea sprays both for the pet and environment, shampoos and collars.

While the costs may be lower for over-the-counter products, they often need to be reapplied to solve a flea infestation.

Prescription only:

  • Topical treatments such as Advantage or Revolution
  • Pills such as Program or Sentinel

The newer prescription products are more expensive. They are usually dispensed in a six-month package, to be applied monthly for the flea season. However, they are safer, easier and more effective than over-the-counter products. These products often have additional benefits, such as heartworm protection, preventing tick, lice and mite infestations. Because of their ease of use, their safety, and their efficacy, they are highly recommended.

It is important to read all of the instructions carefully before using any flea-control product. Follow all the instructions. Never use flea products designed for dogs on cats, and vice versa. When in doubt, contact your veterinarian.

Alternatives:

  • Use a flea comb several times a week on all pets.
  • Vacuum frequently, disposing of bags immediately after use.
  • Long grass can host fleas: keep lawns mowed.
  • Wash pet bedding weekly.
  • To protect cats from fleas and ticks, as well as a host of other outdoor hazards, cats should be kept indoors at all times.

here are many benefits to vaccinating your pet. Vaccines protect your pet’s health and can save you the heartbreak of unexpectedly losing your pet.

Cats and dogs need different vaccines, and your pet’s lifestyle might also affect what vaccines your pet needs to stay healthy. It is always best to talk to your veterinarian about your pet’s vaccine needs and how often your pet should receive vaccines.

Vaccines Your Pet Needs

In Ontario, all cats and dogs more than three months old must have an up-to-date rabies vaccine. In Ontario, rabies can be found in bats, skunks and raccoons and can spread to domestic animals and humans through a bite or scratch.

Rabies is typically deadly and there is no known cure, so prevention is essential.

Pets receive their first rabies vaccine between 12 to 16 weeks of age, a booster is given a year later and further boosters are given every one to three years.

It is recommended that all dogs receive vaccination against distemper, adenovirus, parainfluenza and canine parvovirus (DA2PP).

It is recommended that all cats receive vaccination against feline viral rhinotracheitis, calici virus and feline panleukopenia virus (FVRCP).

These viruses are highly contagious and can be deadly especially for young animals. These viruses can also impact your pet’s health for years to come and require costly treatment. After your pet receives their first vaccination, talk to your veterinarian about how often your pet should receive a booster.

Vaccines to Fit Your Pet's Routine

Do you take your dog on long hikes through forest trails? Maybe your dog stays at a boarding kennel while you are away on vacation.

Depending on your dog’s routine, he may need additional vaccines to keep him healthy and protect him from common diseases like:

  • Bordetella;
  • Leptospirosis; and
  • Lyme disease.

Bordetella, or kennel cough, is largely spread from dog to dog at dog parks, in kennels or at the groomer. The disease’s severity can change depending on your dog’s age, breed and general health.

Lyme disease spreads through deer ticks to humans and animals. Leptospirosis spreads to your dog through contaminated water.

Your veterinarian will be able to determine which vaccines your dog needs and how often your dog needs vaccination.

Cats, depending on their exposure to the outdoors, can be at risk for feline leukemia virus, which can cause devastating immunosuppressive symptoms and cancer and spreads from cat to cat. Your vet will be able to advise if your cat needs to be vaccinated against feline leukemia virus and how often your cat should receive a booster.

Overdue Vaccines

If your pet has missed a vaccine, it is best to talk to your veterinarian as this may change your pet’s vaccine schedule.

Sources

2017 AAHA canine vaccination guidelines. (n.d.). Retrieved October 8, 2021, from https://www.aaha.org/globalassets/02-guidelines/canine-vaccination/vaccination_recommendation_for_general_practice_table.pdf.

Feline leukemia virus. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. (2021, August 19). Retrieved October 8, 2021, from https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/feline-leukemia-virus.

Ontario Lyme Disease Estimated Risk Areas Map: 2018. (n.d.). Retrieved October 8, 2021, from https://cm.publichealthontario.ca/-/media/documents/l/2018/lyme-disease-risk-area-map-2018.pdf?sc_lang=fr.

Rabies in Ontario. (n.d.). Retrieved October 8, 2021, from http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/food/inspection/ahw/rabies.htm#7.

Veterinary practice guidelines 2020 Aaha/AAFP feline … (n.d.). Retrieved October 8, 2021, from https://www.aaha.org/globalassets/02-guidelines/feline-vaccination-guidlines/resource-center/2020-aahaa-afp-feline-vaccination-guidelines.pdf.

Weese, S. (2019, March 28). Canine leptospirosis maps. Worms & Germs Blog. Retrieved October 8, 2021, from https://www.wormsandgermsblog.com/2019/03/articles/animals/dogs/canine-leptospirosis-maps/.

Many common household products can be potentially dangerous to dogs and cats. Below is a list of the top 10 pet poisons affecting animals.

Human Medications

Prescription and over-the-counter drugs such as painkillers, cold medicine, antidepressants and dietary supplements can be fatal to animals. Pets often eat pills accidentally dropped on the floor, so it’s essential to keep bottles safely stored in inaccessible cabinets and cupboards.

Insecticides

Keeping your home free of insects can put your pet at risk. And just as important is following proper procedures when applying flea and tick products. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian before beginning any new flea and tick program.

People Food

People food like grapes, raisins, avocado and certain citrus fruit can seriously harm pets. Chocolate, when ingested in significant amounts, can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even tremors and seizures in severe cases.

Rodenticides

Pets who accidentally ingested rat and mouse poisons can suffer severe reactions. Depending on the type of poison used, problems can include bleeding, seizures and kidney damage.

Veterinary Medications

Even though veterinary medications are intended for pets, they’re often misapplied or improperly dispensed. Be sure to speak to your vet about proper dosage and other instructions any time your pet is prescribed medication.

Plants

Common houseplants such as azalea, rhododendron, sago palm, lilies, kalanchoe and schefflera can be harmful to pets. Lilies are especially toxic to cats, and can cause life-threatening kidney failure even in small amounts.

Chemical Hazards

Chemical hazards found in ethylene glycol antifreeze, paint thinner, drain cleaners and pool/spa chemicals form a substantial danger to pets. Substances in this group can cause gastrointestinal upset, depression, respiratory difficulties and chemical burns.

Household Cleaners

Common agents in bleaches, detergents and disinfectants can be dangerous when inhaled by pets, causing serious gastrointestinal distress and irritation to the respiratory tract.

Heavy Metals

Heavy metals of the non-music variety, such as lead, zinc and mercury, can be poisonous. Lead is especially dangerous, and pets are exposed to it through many sources, including consumer products, paint chips, linoleum, and lead dust produced when surfaces in older homes are scraped or sanded.

Fertilizer

The lure of a green lawn may not be so bright when you consider how much of problem certain types of fertilizer can cause for outdoor cats and dogs. Consider natural alternatives to keeping your yard looking good and your pets feeling great.

*Tips adapted from a list prepared by the ASPCA

Day-to-Day Care

Your pet needs regular care and attention to live their best life. Below are some of the everyday needs that will help you keep your pet happy and healthy. 

Grooming not only keeps your pet looking great, it also helps keep them healthy and comfortable. Daily or weekly grooming provides an opportunity to detect fleas and other problems that might otherwise go unnoticed. While cats and rabbits do much of the grooming themselves, they still require brushing and nail trimming on a regular basis. Dogs should be taken a groomer every few months for a more thorough grooming including a wash and haircut.

Regular exercise and play keeps your pet happy and healthy, and can help prevent behaviour issues. Take time each day for one-on-one playtime, exercise and socialization with your pet. Go on a long walk together, play training games or provide food puzzles for an independent mental workout. Not only will your pet feel more satisfied and less restless, this will improve your bond with your pet!

More Ideas for Play!

Ensure your pet is receiving a balanced diet that meets her nutritional needs, and never feed your pet table scraps as some foods are toxic to pets. Talk to your veterinarian about the diet that’s best for your pet.

It’s important to provide basic training to your dog, so you can keep your dog under control and keep yourself, others and your dog safe at all times. When training, always use reward-based positive-reinforcement training methods and never use intimidation or punishment. Remember – training should be fun for you and your dog, and provides an opportunity to improve your special bond. Learn more about the different types of training and how to start.

Training Options

Pet Owner Responsibilities

  • Put a collar and tag on them! A collar and tag means that if they wander, someone can contact you to get them back home before they go too far. Some dog breeds are more prone to wander — you may want to consider a GPS collar!
  • Make sure they are microchipped. A microchip means they always have ID. Sign up for an OHS microchip clinic today!
  • Sterilize them! Pets wander less if they’re not lured away by another in-heat animal.
  • Keep your cat indoors…it’s safer for them. Even cats who “usually” stay in the yard can be frightened away or chase animals. It’s a myth that cats can always find their way home.
  • Make sure collars and leashes are well fitted and functioning, and monitor regularly. A newly groomed pet’s neck may require a collar adjustment! 
  • Make sure they are trained. Dogs with good recall can be called back before they run too far and get lost. (Need training? See how OHS can help!)
  • Keep careful control during transit. Many pets become lost when they bolt from a vehicle. Make sure pets in vehicles are contained in carriers or are wearing seat belts, so that you can control their entry and exit.
  • Keep screens and fences in good repair. We receive many lost reports because cats pushed through a screen or dogs wiggled between loose fence posts. 
  • Train your family. Many animals escape because a child (or their friend) left the door open or dropped the leash on a walk.
  • Take extra precautions during changes in routine. Many pets go missing when something’s different — have plans in place to ensure their safety during:
    • Renovations or construction inside or outside the home. Talk to workers to make sure they’re not leaving doors open, and consider keeping pets in enclosed rooms while there’s major activity going on in your house.
    • Vacations — many pets escape pet sitters and dog walkers. Make sure your pet sitter or dog walker understand your pet’s routines and habits.
    • Extreme weather and fireworks makes many animals anxious, and more prone to bolt through open doors.
    • Household changes (new pet, new baby) — big changes can upset pets.
    • Visitors — make sure they know to keep doors closed and what to do around pets).
  • Keep a recent picture of your pet on your phone at all times, so you can show it to people quickly if your pet does stray.
  • Know the first steps to take, by reading our search tips below, so you can act fast if your pet does stray.

Your dog won't pick up their own poop. As their owner, it's your responsibility to pick up after them.

The outdoors is a great way to keep your pet happy and healthy, but it's best to make sure your pet is safe while enjoying the outdoors. 

Cats and Outdoors

The City of Ottawa has a few by-laws that affect pet owners. Find out what you need to know as a pet owner.

By-laws

Does gaining a baby mean losing your pet?

Every year in Ottawa hundreds of animals are surrendered to the OHS when a new baby arrives. Myths and false information about cats and dogs frighten new parents into giving up their animal friend, who could be a warm and loving companion for a child.

With a few simple steps, you can ensure that your pet stays with you and your growing family. 

While pregnant, can living with a cat cause birth defects? 

Toxoplasmosis can cause serious birth defects. While the disease-causing parasite can be found in the feces of cats, it is more commonly found in uncooked or undercooked meat. Toxoplasmosis is uncommon in Canada, and transmission through the family cat is extremely rare. Have someone other than the pregnant woman clean the litter box. If the pregnant woman must clean the litter box, she should wear rubber gloves and a face mask, and thoroughly wash her hands afterward. She should also wear gloves while gardening to avoid coming into contact with feces from outdoor cats, and thoroughly wash her hands afterward.

Consult your physician if you are concerned about the risks of toxoplasmosis.

How will my pet react to the new baby? 

The addition of a new family member may be difficult for your pet. All animals react if their routine is disrupted, or they feel they have been displaced. So it’s understandable that your pet may experience something like sibling rivalry when you introduce a new baby into your household.

You can minimize this feeling by working with your pet before you bring home your baby.

How can I prepare my pet for the new baby?

Gradually accustom your pet to spending less time with you. Avoid drastically decreasing attention after the baby comes home, which will likely make your pet feel stressed. If your pet is particularly attached to the mother-to-be, another family member should develop a closer relationship with the animal to ensure that the animal doesn’t suddenly feel abandoned when the new baby arrives. 

Below are several suggestions to make introducing your pet to your baby safer and smoother for all. Carry out these changes months before the baby’s arrival to best prepare your pet:

  • Sign up for an OHS webinar on pets and babies.
  • Address any pet training and behaviour issues before the baby arrives.
  • If your pet’s behaviour includes gentle nibbling or pouncing, or swatting at you and others, redirect that behaviour to appropriate objects.
  • Get your pet used to nail trims.
  • Train your pet to remain calmly on the floor beside you until you invite them on your lap, which will soon cradle a newborn.
  • Encourage friends with infants to visit your home to accustom your pet to babies. Supervise all pet and infant interactions.
  • Accustom your pet to baby-related noises. For example, play recordings of a baby crying, turn on a mechanical infant swing, and use a rocking chair.
  • Sprinkle baby powder or baby oil on your skin so your pet becomes familiar with the new smells.
  • To discourage your pet from jumping on the baby’s crib and changing table, apply doublestick tape to the furniture.
  • If the baby’s room will be off-limits to your pet, install a sturdy barrier such as a removable gate (available at pet or baby supply stores) or even a screen door. Your pet will see and hear what’s
    happening in the room and feel less isolated.
  • Before the baby arrives, get your dog used to going for a walk with a stroller. Also, use a baby doll to help your pet get used to the real thing. Carry around a swaddled baby doll, take the doll in the stroller when you walk your dog, and use the doll to get your pet used to routine baby activities.
  • Talk to your pet about the baby, using the baby’s name if you’ve selected one. 
  • Finally, plan ahead to make sure your pet is cared for while you’re at the birthing centre.

How should I introduce my pet to the baby?

Before you bring your baby home from the hospital, have your partner or friend take home something with the baby’s scent (such as a blanket) for your pet to investigate. When you return from the hospital, have someone else take the baby into another room while you give your pet a warm, but calm, welcome. After the initial greeting, bring your pet with you to sit next to the baby; reward your pet with treats for appropriate behaviour. Never force your pet to get near the baby; you want your pet to view their time with you and the baby as a positive experience.

My pet has met the baby, now what?

Try to maintain regular routines as much as possible to help your pet adjust. And be sure you or another family member spends one-on-one quality time with your pet each day — it may help relax you too! In addition:

  • Never leave the baby and your pet alone together, even after the baby is crawling or walking. This will protect your child from an exuberant pet and your pet from an enthusiastic child.
  • Spend time with your pet and baby together, so your pet views the newcomer and the new relationship as a positive experience.
  • To help keep a good routine for your dog, consider finding and hiring a part-time dog walker for at least the first few months after the baby has arrived.
  • Don’t assume allergy symptoms, if they arise, are caused by a pet. Many allergies are to other things like laundry detergents or new food. If your child shows symptoms of allergies, consult an allergist

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