1. Dirty Pets, Dirty Home- As a pet lover it is upsetting to see or touch a dirty pet. Brushing a cat or dog regularly can keep shedding hair, dirt and debris from collecting on a dog or cat’s coat. It is a good idea to bathe a dog once a month to remove embedded dirt and smell. Cats can be bathed too but it is best to start a bathing habit when they are young. A clean pet can help you maintain a clean home. Take care of furniture, carpets and floors by washing or vacuuming them on a regular basis. If your pet is especially fond of a chair or spot on the couch, keep a mat, towel or blanket for them to relax on. This will prevent your couch and clothing from being covered in hair.

2. Neglecting Litter Box Maintenance- Have you ever visited a house or apartment where you could smell the litter box outside the residence. Litter box maintenance is imperative to both your cat and your personal health. Purchase fine clumping litter that absorbs urine. Scoop litter box regularly and refresh with litter deodorizer. Additionally, wash the litter box out and change the litter to prevent smells from forming. Litter box maintenance can also prevent inappropriate elimination problems.

If you have a puppy or small dog that you would prefer eliminate in your home on paper or pee pads, begin training them immediately upon bringing them home. Place the paper or pee pad in the same place so the puppy or small dog becomes accustomed to eliminating in the same area, preventing elimination elsewhere.

3. Clean-Up After Your Pet- Be a good neighbor and clean up after your dog. Scooping your pet's poop is the law.

4. Purchasing a Pet on a Whim- Buying a dog or cat as an impulse buy can really mess-up your life! Recognize that a dog or cat can live as long as twenty years, making such a purchase a very serious commitment. It is important to do your research in advance and buy a pet that you can manage and fits into your lifestyle.

5. Pets Cost Money- Pets are not cheap! Although owning a pet is a wonderful experience, pets cost money. Pets need food, veterinary care, leashes and collars, and other products and services such as grooming and boarding care. If you cannot accommodate all of your pet’s needs, both traditional and unanticipated, then purchasing a pet may need to be put on hold.

6. Clean-Up Your Pet's Feeding Area- People prefer to eat on clean tables and plates…pets deserve the same. Wash your pet’s dishes daily and change their water a few times throughout the day. Also, clean up the area in which your pet eats. This will eliminate odor, dirt and possible bugs in your home.

7. Leaving A Dog Tethered Outside- Dogs are social creatures. It is important to interact and provide your dog with love and support. A watch dog can just as easily stand guard inside a house, as outside. Bring your dog inside among its family to provide it with the care and attention it deserves.