Pet care: 7 secrets to raising pets properly.

Animals have always brought joy and connection to humans—from household pets to those living in the wild. But to show love properly, we need to know how to care for our pets and respect all the animals around us. This article helps you understand the simplest yet most practical ways to treat pets kindly and protect wildlife. Whether you own a cat, dog, rabbit… or simply want to live more in harmony with nature, the content below will provide easy-to-apply guidelines for everyday life.

Method 1: Guide to caring for healthy and happy pets at home

Secret 1: Commit to lifelong pet care.

Why is a long-term commitment necessary?
Pets bond with their owners as part of the family. When you adopt, you are taking on the responsibility of caring for them for life. Abandonment or inadequate care can harm pets both physically and emotionally. This is the most important foundation of sustainable and compassionate pet care.

Avoid buying pets from unreliable sources.
To ensure health and traceability, you should:

• Choose reputable breeding farms or animal rescue centers.

• Avoid buying from pet stores or low-quality breeding facilities.

• Thoroughly research the pet's living conditions, vaccination schedule, and health history before bringing it home.

Assess your ability to care for a pet before making a decision.
Answering some key questions will help you ensure you're ready:

1. What are my reasons for wanting to have a pet?

2. Do I have enough time to care for, train, and play with my pet every day?

3. Does the monthly budget cover basic expenses such as food, hygiene, veterinary check-ups, and vaccinations?

4. Is my living space suitable for the type of pet I want to keep? Is pet-friendly in my rental property?

5. When I'm away, busy, or sick, who will help take care of the pets?

Tip 2: Proper pet healthcare

Maintain regular veterinary check-ups.
Regular checkups help detect diseases early and keep your pet healthy. You should:

• Take your pet for a health check-up once a year or as recommended by your veterinarian.

• Monitor for unusual signs such as loss of appetite, fatigue, and behavioral changes so that early intervention can be provided.

• Establishing a routine of regular check-ups is an important part of long-term pet care.

Get all vaccinations annually.
Vaccination helps prevent dangerous diseases and protects pets from many sources of infection.

• Ensure your pet is vaccinated against rabies and other infectious diseases, depending on the species.

• Schedule regular annual vaccination appointments, ideally combined with a general health check-up.

Grooming and hygiene should be appropriate for each species.
Proper hygiene helps keep pets comfortable and reduces the risk of skin diseases.

• Dogs, cats, rabbits, and horses need to be brushed regularly to reduce shedding and maintain healthy skin.

• Bathe at an appropriate frequency, avoiding bathing too often which can dry out the skin.

• Check the ears, nails, and tangled fur areas for timely treatment.

Control parasites and insects
Fleas, ticks, ear mites, and other parasites can cause itching, skin inflammation, and disease.

• Regularly check your pet's fur and skin.

• Use topical medications, sprays, or collars to repel ticks and fleas as directed by your veterinarian.

• Keep livestock pens and homes clean to reduce the risk of reinfection.

Tip 3: Create a comfortable, private space for your pet.

Prepare a warm and safe place to sleep.
Pets need rest just like humans. A warm sleeping place helps them feel loved and strengthens their bond.

• Use a pet bed, a blanket-lined box, or clean straw, depending on the species.

• Place an item with your scent on it so they feel safe and secure.

• Avoid choosing sleeping locations that are too cold, noisy, or drafty.

Separate areas for dining, recreation, and restrooms.
A well-organized space allows pets to live more comfortably and in a cleaner environment.

• The dining area should be quiet and easy to clean.

• Create a separate toilet area and place it away from the eating area, as most species do not like to eat near a waste disposal area.

• Prepare a safe play area with toys that are appropriate for the child's size and movement habits.

Prioritize small pets living indoors.
Many small pets are susceptible to the effects of outdoor weather and environmental conditions.

• Allowing dogs, cats, and other small pets to live indoors ensures their safety and health.

• If you must stay outside, make sure you have a secure shelter with a roof and a dry surface.

Ensure outdoor living areas have adequate shelter.
For species that live outside of enclosures, protection from harsh weather is extremely important.

• The kennel needs a roof to protect against rain, sun, and cold wind, and it must be spacious enough for the pet to move around comfortably.

• Note: Small animals have difficulty regulating their body temperature, so they need to be kept warm in cold weather and cool in hot weather.

Keep your living space clean.
Regular cleaning helps to reduce illness and unpleasant odors.

• Fish tanks and turtle tanks should have their water changed and be cleaned weekly.

• Cat litter boxes need to be cleaned daily to prevent bacteria buildup and to keep cats from going elsewhere to relieve themselves.

• Clean up shed feathers, change bedding, and wash food and drink bowls regularly according to a schedule.

Tip 4: Feed your pet properly and regularly.

Maintain a consistent daily feeding schedule.
A regular feeding schedule helps pets establish routines and supports their long-term health.

• Feed them at the same time each day to establish a routine.

• Consult your veterinarian or find a reliable source to determine the appropriate feeding frequency for your species.

Choose the right type of food that is suitable for each species.
Each species has different nutritional needs, so you need to choose the right type of food.

• Dogs and cats usually need a combination of dry and wet food.

• Pigs, rabbits, and other omnivores can be given supplemental vegetables and fruits according to safety guidelines.

• Prioritize high-quality foods within your budget to support digestive health and long-term well-being.

• Consult your veterinarian or a reputable pet store to choose the right brand and type of pet food.

Make sure your pet always has access to clean water.
Water is an essential element in daily pet care.

• Always keep a bowl of clean water readily available next to the eating area.

• Change the water at least once a day; change it immediately if the water becomes cloudy or contains food particles.

• Use an easy-to-clean water bowl and place it in a fixed location so your pet can easily find it.

Avoid feeding your pets leftover food.
Many human foods can be harmful or even dangerous to pets.

• Do not serve chocolate, sweets, greasy food, or leftovers from the table.

• Consult your veterinarian for a list of foods to absolutely avoid.

Rewarding with treats the right way
Treats can help increase bonding and support training, but they need to be used appropriately.

• Only reward your pet when it performs the desired behavior.

• Avoid overfeeding because most treats contain sugar or are high in calories, easily leading to weight gain.

Tip 5: Interact with your pet at the right time.

Respect your pet's personal space.
Pets need rest time just like humans. Letting them sleep or relax on their own will help them feel safer and more trusting of you.

• Do not wake your pets when they are sleeping.

• Observe their body language to recognize when they want to be petted or want to be alone.

Avoid touching your pet while it is eating, drinking, or grooming itself.
Pets are often easily startled or stressed at this time.

• Do not play with or pick up your pet while it is eating or drinking.

• Do not disturb your pet while it is grooming itself or cleaning itself.

• Minimize any factors that might cause them anxiety or an unpleasant reaction.

Don't chase after them or force them to interact.
Many pets will be frightened if they are chased or forced into contact.

• Avoid chasing, grabbing, or hugging them when they don't want to.

• Allow your pet to approach you on its own when it feels comfortable.

• Create a safe environment so they feel confident approaching and interacting.

Lower your posture to create a sense of security.
Your body posture greatly affects how your pet feels.

• Sit down or bend down to eye level with your pet to appear more friendly.

• Keep your voice soft and avoid sudden movements.

• Give your pet time to observe and approach in their own way.

Tip 6: Show your love for your pet the right way.

Always be gentle and affectionate when interacting.
Gentle handling helps pets feel safe and loved. This increases the likelihood that they will proactively seek you out for petting or playtime.

• Gently and slowly stroke the pet's fur; hold the pet securely but without squeezing it too tightly.

• Never pull their tails or tease them in a way that makes them uncomfortable.

Responding to affection from pets
When pets actively rub their heads against you, lick your hand, or lie close beside you, that's how they show affection.

• Call your pet by its name in a gentle voice.

• Stroke or pat their heads to let them know you appreciate your affection.

• Voice interaction helps pets bond and respond better.

Daily playtime strengthens the bond.
Playtime is a natural need for most pets and directly affects their health and well-being.

• Take the dog for a walk, play interactive games with the cat, create a running track for the rabbit, or engage in other species-appropriate games.

• Observe what activities your pet enjoys and prioritize those that help them release energy.

Be patient when your pet makes mistakes.
Pets learn fastest when they receive positive guidance, not threats.

• Avoid yelling, yanking the leash forcefully, or using frightening actions as punishment.

• When they make mistakes, guide them again in a calm voice and reward them when they get it right.

• Patience helps pets feel safe, which in turn leads to the formation of more sustainable good behavior.

Tip 7: Report animal abuse when you suspect it.

Recognize when your pet or animal shows signs of abuse.
If you see an animal behaving unusually or being mistreated, reporting it to the authorities is a way to show your protection and kindness towards animals. Some common signs include:

• Chained up or confined in the yard without sufficient food, water, or safe shelter.

• Being repeatedly hit, kicked, or yelled at leads to stress and fear.

What to do when you suspect abuse
To ensure your safety and help animals receive timely intervention, you can:

• Record the time, location, and describe what you saw.

• Report it immediately to the local authorities or animal protection organization near where you live.

• Avoid approaching situations where there is a risk to your safety.

Method 2: Guidelines for safe and gentle interaction with animals

Step 1: Do not force your pet to interact when they are uncomfortable.

Avoid chasing or forcing pets to come near you.
When animals bark, growl, hiss, or fart as a warning, it means they are frightened or stressed. Forcing contact at this time can cause them to react violently and become dangerous to you.

• If your pet tries to scratch, bite, or kick, back away immediately to reduce stress for both of you.

• Give them time to calm down instead of trying to approach them.

Lower your pet's position to help them feel safer.
Your body posture greatly affects an animal's emotions.

• Kneel or sit down at eye level with small animals such as dogs, cats, rabbits, or turtles.

• Avoid bringing your face too close to your pet's face, as this can scare them and cause them to react defensively.

• Maintain a gentle gaze, keep your body relaxed, and don't approach too quickly.

Understand that animals react based on how you treat them.
Pet behavior largely reflects how they are approached and cared for.

• When you are patient, gentle, and respect boundaries, your pet will gradually become comfortable and willingly approach you.

• When you are rough or too hasty, they will develop a defensive reflex and evasive behavior.

Step 2: Approach the pet slowly and safely.

Move slowly to avoid startling your pet.
Animals are more sensitive to sounds and smells than humans, so the way you approach them directly affects their sense of security.

• Approach very slowly, avoiding making loud noises.

• Do not rush towards them or pat them forcefully, as this may scare them and make them defensive.

Avoid approaching from blind spots or behind.
Blind spots can startle animals and cause them to react strongly.

• Approach from the front or side slowly.

• Make sure your pet sees you before you get any closer.

Let your pet smell you before touching you.
Smell is how animals recognize and assess levels of safety.

• Hold your hand out so the dog, cat, or other animal can sniff it out.

• If you've just touched another animal, wash your hands before touching it again; some pets don't like "strange" smells.

• Only continue contact when the pet appears comfortable, such as moving closer or sniffing for longer periods.

Give your pet time to approach on its own.
Some species are naturally shy and need time to get used to new surroundings.

• Stand still, keep your body relaxed, and avoid staring to prevent creating tension.

• Wait a few seconds to a few minutes for your pet to approach you on its own.

• Don't try to pick them up, pet them, or hug them if they're not ready, as this can cause stress.

Step 3: Lift your pet calmly and correctly.

Approach your pet slowly before picking it up.
When your pet approaches you or you want to pick them up to show affection, move gently so they don't startle.

• Observe the body: if the pet is relaxed, doesn't shy away, and seems comfortable, you can begin to pick it up.

• Avoid sudden, quick movements or bending down that might scare them.

Lift your pet properly to ensure their safety.
Proper support helps pets feel secure and avoids pain.

• Place your hands under your front leg or under your stomach and back leg for a stable support.

• With larger pets (large dogs, large cats), use both hands or your arms to support the weight evenly.

• Always maintain a calm breathing rhythm; pets can sense your stress.

• If your pet struggles or shows signs of not wanting to be held, gently put them down and try again when they are more comfortable.

Use assistive devices with large animals.
Some animals, such as large pigs, cows, and horses, cannot be carried in your arms.

• When moving the animal, use specialized equipment such as a crane or lifting rope to support its entire legs, head, and belly.

• Ensure the equipment is safe and appropriate to avoid causing injury.

Stand up slowly after you have secured your pet.
Once you've picked your pet up in the correct position, you need to stand up slowly to avoid startling them.

• Keep your body stable and avoid sudden changes in posture.

• Observe your pet's reactions throughout the process.

Never pick up your pet by its head, legs, or tail.
These incorrect ways of holding pets can cause serious harm and lead to long-lasting fear.

• Always lift using your lower body or belly – this is the safest position for most species.

Step 4: Hold your pet firmly so they feel secure.

Hold the person securely after lifting them up.
Once you've picked up your pet correctly, keeping them in a stable position will help them relax and feel secure.

• Keep your pet balanced, preventing them from wobbling or slipping out of your hands.

• Position their weight on their hands or arms so that they feel a secure support.

Avoid flipping or turning your pet over.
Unnatural postures can frighten or hurt pets.

• Do not turn your pet upside down, flip it over, or put it in an uncontrollable position.

• Always keep their bodies in a natural position, with their legs pointing down or tucked into your lap.

Sit down so both you and your pet are comfortable.
Sitting helps you hold your pet more securely and allows them to relax more easily.

• Sit down on a chair or the floor to reduce the risk of falling or slipping.

• Allow your pet to lean on you; many will naturally snuggle up to you for a sense of security.

Talk and gently caress.
Gentle interaction helps pets understand that you care for and protect them.

• Stroke their heads, rub their backs, or gently scratch the areas they like.

• Speak in a calm, even voice to build trust.

Method 3: Guidelines for protecting and respecting animals in the wild.

Step 1: Remember that wild animals will always be wild animals.

Understanding the behavior of animals in the wild correctly.
Wild animals like raccoons, foxes, and crocodiles may seem cute, but their nature is still focused on survival in their natural environment.

• They may hunt or attack when they feel threatened.

• You should not approach, touch, or attempt to play with wild animals, even if they appear "tame."

Don't try to domesticate wild animals.
Many species are completely impossible to domesticate, even when young.

• Crocodiles, other predators, and many other species retain strong self-defense instincts.

• Attempting to domesticate or tame an animal can be dangerous for both you and the animal.

Note on legal regulations when keeping wild animals as pets.
Keeping wild animals at home is often prohibited or requires a special permit.

• Some species are protected by law and are not allowed to be kept as pets in any form.

• Without a valid license, keeping pets could violate regulations and pose safety risks.

Step 2: Observe wildlife from a distance to ensure safety.

Maintain a safe distance when observing.
Standing too close can scare wild animals or trigger an aggressive reaction.

• Observe them from a distance; do not attempt to approach or interfere with their habitat.

• Respect natural spaces to avoid causing stress to animals.

Do not chase, touch, or pick up wild animals.
Direct contact can be dangerous for you and cause harm to animals.

• No chasing for the purpose of taking photos or videos.

• Do not touch the chicks, even if they appear abandoned; their parents are usually nearby.

Remain silent while observing.
Loud noises can easily startle animals and alter their natural behavior.

• Stand still, move slowly, and avoid speaking loudly.

• Use binoculars or a camera to get a clearer view without having to get close.

Keep pets away from wild animals.
Contact between pets and wild animals can lead to conflict or the spread of disease.

• Always keep dogs and cats under control when going on picnics or in natural areas.

• Do not allow pets to chase or approach wild animals on their own.

Avoid breeding areas or places where animals protect their young.
This is a time when they are sensitive and prone to strong defensive behaviors.

• Maintain a greater distance when you know the area is in its breeding season.

• Do not approach animal nests, burrows, or shelters.

Step 3: Do not feed the wild animals to protect them properly.

Avoid feeding wild animals any kind of food.
Although seemingly harmless, feeding wild animals can disrupt their natural behavior and reduce their chances of survival.

• They may become dependent on humans instead of fending for themselves.

• Human food can harm animals or make them easier targets for predators.

• Never leave food outdoors with the intention of attracting them.

Storing food outdoors safely is essential.
The smell of food can attract wildlife closer to residential areas.

• Store food, especially pet food, in containers with airtight lids.

• Do not leave leftover food outside overnight.

Dispose of trash properly to avoid attracting animals.
Strong-smelling waste is a common reason why wildlife enters human settlements.

• Dispose of trash in a lidded bin or tie the bag tightly.

• When camping or hiking, dispose of trash in designated areas; do not litter in any form.

• Don't leave trash accumulating in your yard because the smell will attract animals.

Note other attractive scents
Besides food, some familiar human smells can also attract wildlife.

• Salt from sweat on shoes, socks, or backpacks can attract salt-eating animals.

• Perfume, sunscreen, or scented shampoo can also attract the attention of some species.

Never use food to lure wild animals closer.
Even if it's just for "beautiful photos," this action is very dangerous.

• Animals can become aggressive when they get too close to humans.

• Accustoming them to human food sources will increase the risk of conflict and disease.

Step 4: Create a safe living environment for the surrounding animals to thrive.

Establish a wildlife-friendly zone.
You can help the creatures living around your home thrive without affecting your own life.

• Plant trees, create green spaces or small gardens to attract birds, butterflies, and other small creatures.

• Provide small water sources, such as shallow basins, for birds or insects to drink from, but keep them clean to prevent mosquito breeding.

• Leave some of the bushes or tree stumps intact to create natural shelter for small animals.

Limit the use of pesticides and harmful chemicals.
Chemicals in the yard not only harm wildlife but also affect pets and the environment.

• Using organic products or biological preparations is safer for the ecosystem.

• Avoid spraying during times when there are many birds or insects active.

• Prioritize natural methods such as planting insect-repelling plants or using biological traps.

Respect the natural boundaries of animals.
Support their development but avoid excessive interference with their habitat.

• Observe from a distance; do not attempt to touch or tame wild animals.

• Maintain a well-ventilated and clean area so that small creatures can survive without encroaching on your living space.

Step 5: Drive carefully to protect wildlife.

Reduce speed when passing through areas with wildlife.
The construction of houses and roads is fragmenting the natural habitats of many species. When driving through areas inhabited by deer, foxes, or other animals that live near forests, you need to be extra careful to avoid accidents.

• Observe the signs warning of animals crossing the road.

• Slow down and pay close attention to both sides of the road, especially at night.

Avoid swerving suddenly to avoid animals on the highway.
Sudden steering maneuvers can cause the vehicle to lose control and lead to serious accidents.

• If you encounter an unexpected situation, keep the steering wheel straight and decelerate safely.

• Try to avoid the animal if possible, but do not make any movements that endanger yourself or others.

Never intentionally hit animals.
Intentionally harming animals is cruel and may be against the law.

• Always show respect for wildlife when driving.

• If someone witnesses intentional harm, you could face legal trouble.

Step 6: Respect the safe and responsible sourcing of meat from wild animals.

Understanding the proper use of wild animal meat
The meat of some species, such as deer and wild boar, is often considered highly nutritious and can be a natural food source. However, exploiting this meat source comes with significant responsibility, requiring compliance with the law and ensuring conservation.

Respect animals and abide by the law.
Hunting of wild animals is only permitted for adults with valid permits and within the permitted species range.

• Hunting should only be done during designated seasons to avoid impacting the population.

• Never hunt protected or endangered species.

• Comply with local regulations regarding hunting areas, quantities, and harvesting methods.

Ensure that mining is carried out in a humane manner.
The general principle when harvesting wild animals is to minimize pain for them. This can only be done by experienced, trained, and licensed weapons handlers.

• Those participating in hunting must be able to handle situations safely for themselves and those around them.

• Equipment and techniques must comply with regulations from the governing body to ensure maximum safety.

Make full use of the available food resources.
One principle that demonstrates respect for nature is to avoid waste.

• Those with a legal hunting license are often encouraged to utilize the entire cut of meat.

• Storage and processing must comply with food safety standards.

Step 7: Report the injured animal for prompt assistance.

Notify the authorities if you see an injured animal.
If you accidentally injure an animal or see a sick, exhausted, or injured animal in the wild, the most important thing is to report it immediately to a professional.

• Rescue workers and conservationists have the skills and equipment to handle it safely.

• They will assess the animal's condition and provide appropriate care, avoiding worsening its condition.

Contact a park ranger or park manager when in a protected area.
In forests, national parks, or nature reserves:

• Report it immediately to the forest rangers or area management staff.

• Provide your location, observe your condition, and maintain a safe distance from the animal.

Call animal rescue services if you are not in the park.
In residential areas or outside the nature reserve, you can contact:

• Local wildlife rescue center.

• The nature conservation committee or the agency responsible for wildlife.

• Contact the local police if you don't know the specific leads.

• Local animal welfare organizations often have lists of emergency rescue phone numbers.

Step 8: Support animal conservation efforts in a practical way.

Donate to animal protection organizations.
Many animal species around the world – including local ones – are threatened or endangered. Donating to reputable organizations helps them sustain their rescue, conservation, and research efforts.

• You can support local wildlife conservation funds, humanitarian organizations, or animal rescue centers.

• These contributions directly support the care, treatment, and protection of the species' habitats.

Consider making a recurring annual contribution.
Many international conservation organizations, such as the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), use their funding to protect threatened species globally.

• Annual contributions provide them with a stable source of resources to implement long-term programs.

• If you want to help your surroundings, support your local conservation area, nature park, or rescue center.

Volunteer at rescue facilities or nature reserves.
Your time is not just financial support; it's also invaluable.

• Assisting with work at parks, animal shelters, or nature reserves.

• Volunteering can help them save on operating costs and focus their budget on essential activities such as vaccinations, treatments, or habitat restoration for animals.

Respect your pet's pace of settling in and their emotions.

Be patient when your new pet doesn't approach you on its own.
Animals need time to adapt to a new environment and new people.

• Don't worry if they don't come near you right away.

• Maintain a gentle demeanor and create a safe space so they can confidently approach you at their own pace.

Leave if you notice signs of stress in your pet.
When animals appear restless, frightened, or agitated, continuing to approach them may cause them more stress.

• Step back and give them time to calm down.

• Observe from a distance to ensure they have calmed down before making further contact.

Avoid rough play.
Rough play can cause animals to become anxious, frightened, or react unexpectedly.

• Choose play methods that suit each pet's species and personality.

• Prioritize gentle, controlled activities to create a positive experience.

Do not pet or pick up your pet if it doesn't want to.
Forcing animals to engage in contact when they refuse can cause both physical and psychological harm.

• Observe the signals: avoidance, soft growling, recoiling… all are signs that you should stop.

• Always let your pet decide when to interact.

References

1. https://online.uwa.edu/news/empathy-in-animals/
2. https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/article/cats-secure-attachment/
3. https://www.aspca.org/news/hair-comes-trouble-why-pets-need-regular-grooming
4. https://animalfoundation.com/whats-going-on/blog/basic-necessities-proper-pet-care
5. https://nap.nationalacademies.org/resource/10668/dog_nutrition_final_fix.pdf
6. https://www.msdvetmanual.com/dog-owners/routine-care-and-breeding-of-dogs/routine-health-care-of-dogs
7. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/people-foods-avoid-feeding-your-pets
8. https://www.southernazvets.com/5-healthy-ways-to-show-your-love-for-your-pet/
9. https://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/how-to-pet-a-dog
10. https://www.ruralareaveset.org/PDF/Animal_Handling.pdf
11. https://www.eekwi.org/animals/leave-wild-animals-wild
12. https://aldf.org/article/laws-that-protect-animals/
13. https://www.gov.uk/report-dead-animal
14. https://www.worldwildlife.org/
    

Translated by: Rene Lee Nguyen .