Are you a responsible pet parent?

Feb 173 min read

Updated: Feb 19

Let's grade you and play Pet Parent Bingo!

You have a pet - congratulations!

February is Responsible Pet Owners Month so this is a list of ways you can use to ensure you are a responsible pet parent.

You love your pet
You have taken them to be spayed or neutered
You provide for all their basic needs (food, water, shelter)
You provide fresh clean water daily
You pay attention to your pet
They have a comfortable bed to sleep on
You take your pet for a check-up at the vet yearly
You feed your pet quality food they like
You clean their food and water bowls regularly
You have some toys for your pet to play with
They have a few comfortable beds or nap spots
You brush your pet's teeth and/or use tartar cleaning products
You have extra water bowls around
You play with your pet regularly
They have an area in the home set up to entertain them
You get your pet's teeth cleaned at the Vets yearly
You give your pets treats that they enjoy
You throw out old bowls that are yucky, scratched, or not suitable
You cycle your pet's toys to keep them 'new' and interesting
They have some cool furniture or a play structure just for them to enjoy
You observe your pet closely and consult your vet when there are any concerns
You use puzzle feeders, lick mats, or fun games to challenge your pet
You upgrade bowls designed specifically for your pet's preferences
You play games or try new activities with your pet

You may not do all of these things but that's okay. As long as you do the basics your pet will love you. But, that being said, we can always try to learn and improve and ensure our pets get the best possible life so please consider adding more things from this list to your routine. The results will be a happier healthier pet and a higher pet parent rating!

Here is your grade score:

12-13 out of 24 = D average (50%-54%)

14 out of 24 = C- (58%)

15 out of 24 = C (62%)

16 out of 24 = C+ (66%)

17-19 out of 24 = B average (75%-79%)

20-21 out of 24 = B+ (87%)

22-24 = A average (91%-100%)

I got 20, so I got a B+. I have not been good about the yearly dental cleanings or brushing the cats' teeth. Though the Vet said Moxie's teeth were pretty good for his age this past summer. Phew!

Ways to play Pet Parent Bingo:

Download the PDF, print it out, and mark all the Bingo squares that apply. Complete additional tasks listed that are not in your normal routine to get a full house!

You can use the .png images in Canva or a photo editing app and mark them up to share with your friends or on social media.

Want to take things to the next level? Check out the second Bingo card for ways to treat your pets as your favourite spoiled children (they will LOVE it by the by). Or create your own Bingo with things your beloved pet loves and mark them off as you complete each task or activity.

Have fun! And, please leave a comment telling us how you did and if you have any suggestions for things we can add to the game. You can also share your Bingo card and tag us on Instagram or Facebook, @furryornot.