Following these reminders will guarantee you a happy, healthy relationship with any kind of pet.

Your pet needs to go to the vet. Start saving now. Every pet needs to be examined by a vet occasionally. Illnesses that are caught early are often treatable and regular vet exams are your best weapon. Even the healthiest pet may have an accident, calling for immediate emergency care. Older pets maybe in pain because of age related sicknesses. Face it: you're going to have your pet to the vet sooner or later. Be prepared to pay for it!

You're the human, you set the rules. Don't let your pet boss you around. Decide on the rules and enforce them consistently. Don't let your pet get his way if it goes against the rules - he'll just do it the next time.

Animals may not seem to have long memories but they sure remember how they got their own way the last time and how they were punished for breaking your rules.

Animals prefer predictability. Pets want to know what to expect - it makes them feel secure. Yours will be happiest if they are fed at the same time every day, sleep in the same spot at night, and can count on you to always come home at a certain time. They'll get by if the routine occasionally changes but keeping their day predictable would be better.

Good food and lots of exercise equals long life. We all know we should eat healthy foods in moderation and get plenty of exercise. The same goes for our pets. Healthy living prevents illnesses and you won't have to see the vet as often. If a small pet is confined to a cage, give it lots of space and things to climb on or explore for it to exercise. Reserve treats like dog biscuits or table scraps for very special occasions.

Bacteria goes with the pet. A clean environment keeps everyone happy and healthy. Pets are dirty and need lots of cleaning. Clean his dirty pan whenever he pees and poos. On a weekly basis, give your dog a bath, shampoo and brush his fur and teeth.

Protect your pet. Keep your pet confined safely. Escape-proof all cages and fences, walk your dog on a leash and keep your cat indoors. The outside world is full of speeding cards, unfamiliar animals and even pet thieves. Just in case your dog gets lost and a kind hearted person found him, make certain your dog has sturdy collars with tags so the founder can return your dog.

It all depends on you. Ultimately, when you accepted this animal as a pet, you agreed to take care of him. This means feeding, habitat, safety are your responsibility. There are over 100 million households worldwide with at least one pet and they can't all be wrong when they say pets provide uncompromised companionship! Take care of your pet like it is a human being so you have a long, enjoyable life together.