Parenting A Pet
Says Shanu Sharma, an animal lover and rescuer from Haryana & a Research Scholar from JNU …
Pets are not just animals; they become an integral part of our families, offering unconditional love, companionship, and joy. As a proud pet parent to two wonderful rescue dogs—Smarty and Dora—I’d like to share my journey and some insights on good pet parenting that I hope will inspire others to care for their furry friends with love and responsibility.
Smarty, my 13-year-old dog, was rescued from the streets of Haryana when he was injured and in dire need of care. Initially, he was aggressive and difficult to manage, but with time, love, and proper care, he blossomed into a gentle and affectionate companion. Dora, my three-year-old, came into my life under different circumstances. I found her frightened and vulnerable, trying to navigate an unfamiliar street, and I knew I couldn’t leave her there. Bringing her home as my second pet was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
Rescuing animals is not just about sheltering them; it is about committing to their well-being for life. Pets rely on us entirely for their health, nutrition, and emotional support. Nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining a pet’s health. I primarily keep Smarty and Dora on a plant-based diet, including a variety of vegetables, fruits, and legumes. This ensures they get all the essential nutrients for their growth and energy needs. Additionally, I provide nutritional supplements as required to ensure their diet is well-balanced.
As pet parents, it’s important to consult veterinarians to understand the dietary needs of our pets. Every animal is unique, and their nutritional requirements may differ based on age, breed, and health conditions. Regular vaccinations and deworming are non-negotiable aspects of responsible pet parenting. I ensure that Smarty and Dora are vaccinated against rabies, distemper, and other diseases on schedule. Deworming is also done regularly to protect them from internal parasites, which can severely impact their health. Being proactive about their medical care not only keeps them healthy but also helps prevent the spread of diseases to other animals and humans.
Smarty’s transformation from an aggressive dog to a calm and gentle companion after sterilization was remarkable. Sterilization not only helps in controlling a pet's hormones, leading to better behavior, but it also significantly improves their overall health by reducing the risk of certain diseases. Moreover, sterilization is a key step in addressing the issue of overpopulation among stray animals. It is a simple yet effective way to prevent unwanted litter and ensure that more animals find loving homes.
Caring for pets is a team effort in my family. My parents, who adore Smarty and Dora, play a significant role in their daily care. Together, we ensure that our pets feel safe, loved, and cherished. Every pet comes with its personality and quirks. Building a strong bond requires patience, consistency, and unconditional love. Smarty and Dora are not just pets; they are family, and their happiness is our priority. So, good pet parenting is about making a lifelong commitment to the well-being of your furry companions. Whether it’s through proper nutrition, timely medical care, or simply spending quality time with them, every effort you make will strengthen the bond you share.
I encourage everyone to consider adopting rescue animals and giving them a chance at a better life. And, most importantly, remember that pets are not just animals; they are sentient beings who deserve love, respect, and care. One more thing I want to ask others is to not hurt other sentient beings to feed their pet because all animals deserve to be treated with compassion. A goat and a chicken are as playful and cute as a dog or a cat. So being an animal lover, we all should love all sentient beings without any discrimination.
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