Pets
give us a great deal of pleasure. In return, it is our responsibility
to ensure that their needs are met to the full, just as we would
for any member of the family.
1. Think before you get a Setter
Consider your lifestyle and budget to make sure that you are able
to provide for all the needs of your dog. Remember that your dog
will require your care throughout its life.
2. Train your Setter
Train your dog to be sociable, and in the case of dogs, to be under
control at all times. By allowing your dog to socialise with other
people and animals from an early age, many behavioural problems
can be avoided. A well trained pet is a pleasure to own and will
not trouble others.
3. Feed your Setter a well balanced diet
Reputable brands of commercially prepared diets are available for
pets and provide all the nutrients required to keep them healthy
and looking good. Remember to keep feeding bowls clean and separate
from your own dishes.
4. Provide suitable housing and bedding for your Setter
It is essential to provide safe and comfortable shelter for any
pet. Pets such as dogs must be exercised regularly.
5. Clean up after your Setter
All animals can pick up parasites from the environment – worm
your dog regularly and remember to ‘SCOOP THE POOP’.
Modern worming preparations are safe, inexpensive and highly effective.
Removing parasites like fleas and worms improves your pet’s
health.
6. Register with a vet
Vaccination prevents disease. Annual visits to the vet also provide
an opportunity for a complete health check. A healthy animal should
have bright eyes, a shiny coat and an inquisitive nature. If signs
of illness or a change in behaviour become evident contact your
vet – early recognition of a disease allows early treatment.
7. Prevent unwanted litters
If you do not want to breed your pet, you should consider neutering.
Spaying also helps prevent medical problems such as breast cancer
and womb infections.
8. Clean and groom your Setter
Regular grooming is needed to keep the coat clean and healthy, because
the Sette is a long-haired animal. This also provides a good opportunity
to check your dog for parasites or signs of illness. Toenails and
teeth may also require regular attention.
9. Control your Setter
Don’t let your dog stray or be a nuisance to others. Dogs
must wear a collar and tag, but other forms of identification that
are more permanent are also available, such as tattooing and microchips.
10. Insure your pet
Both against unexpected vet fees and third party liability in case
your pet should cause an accident. A relatively small, regular payment
relieves financial stress should the unexpected happen.
Taking good care of a pet will mean that it has a better chance
of a long and healthy life.
