June 1 through June 7 is Pet Appreciation Week . If you have a pet of your own, spend some quality time with him or her. Take a few minutes from mowing the lawn or doing the laundry and spend that time playing Frisbee, walking, petting or brushing your dog . Remember that mental exercise is just as important as physical.

To maintain a well balanced mind and body, the dog requires mental as well as physical stimulation. 5 minutes of focused heeling where your dog is required to follow your lead and anticipate your next command will be just as beneficial as a 2 mile walk. The goal is to stimulate the mind, and drain excess physical energy. 

 If you don't have a pet of your own you could volunteer at your local animal shelter or rescue group .They are extremely overwhelmed and some under staffed. There are many wonderful animals that have a great deal to offer at these places and volunteering your time to help care for and exercise these animals could assist them in finding forever homes. 

Having a pet in your life is a very rewarding experience. They are there when we are happy and can share joyful moments as well as when we are sad, and somehow in their own special way, add comfort to those times. One person can make a difference. Will you be the one to help others to understand,bond with and communicate to their pets?

The goals of National Pet Week are to promote responsible pet ownership, celebrate the human-animal bond, and promote public awareness.

The best thing that you can do for your pets is first, to remember your responsibility. If you purchase or adopt, remember that it's for life. You  are not just a pet owner for a few weeks until you become bored with it or at the holidays. Owning a pet is a lifelong commitment.

The next thing you need to do to help your pet is set boundaries and clear decisive rules. Remember your dog is a dog, not a four legged human. It's ok for you to love, pet, hug and play with your dog, as long as your dog is not dictating those terms and knows that you are in charge, not him.


Lastly, your dog also requires the basics of food, water and shelter but also dogs are social animals, most comfortable working in a pack. Remember to Include them in your activities, rather than leaving them behind.

This article was published June 6th , 2009 on page 3 of the Sunday Sentinel