• Protect your cat by keeping him indoors, or by taking him outdoors only under strict supervision. It is estimated that the average life-span of an outdoor domestic cat is only three years.

• Have a veterinarian examine your cat at least once a year and keep vaccinations up to date. This will keep your cat free from disease and infection. Adult cats must be vaccinated annually.

• Provide proper nutrition and ensure that your cat has adequate food, water and shelter at all times. A healthy, well-nourished cat means fewer trips to the veterinarian.

• Scoop the litterbox twice a day and fully replace the litter in the box once a week.

• If you are unsure of your cat's health or behaviour speak to your veterinarian.

Responsibilities of a Dog Owner

• Spay or neuter your dog. Sterilization will reduce the risk of disease, infection and prevent unwanted puppies.

• Ensure that your dog is microchipped and licensed for the current year, and that it wears an identification tag at all times. A microchip or identification tag will help your local animal shelter or animal control service reunite you and your lost dog. You can license your dog and register lost dog reports at your local animal control office.

• Have a veterinarian examine your dog at least once a year, and keep vaccinations up to date. Adult dogs must be vaccinated annually. It will mean a longer life for your dog.

• Provide adequate exercise for your dog. Dogs who do not get enough exercise tend to be overweight and have a greater chance of experiencing health problems.

• Dogs need to relieve themselves at regular intervals; puppies at frequent intervals. Dogs need at least one hour of walking each and every day.

• Provide proper nutrition and ensure that your dog has adequate food, water and shelter at all times. Neglect in these areas make for an extremely unhealthy and unhappy dog.

• Provide basic obedience training and keep your dog under control. A well-trained dog will not be a nuisance to you, your family or your neighbours.

• Pick up after your dog. Most cities have "stoop and scoop" laws; obey them.

• If you are unsure of your dogs health condition, speak to your veterinarian.

• If you are unsure of your dog's behaviour, speak to your veterinarian, behaviourist or obedience trainer.