1. Make sure your pet wears an I.D. tag. If he becomes lost the tag enables him to be returned to you.

2. Enroll your new puppy or dog in behavioral training classes to prevent animal behavior problems. Visit www.petsforlife.org

3. Animal behavior problems can be health related. At least once a year have a veterinarian perform a complete medical exam on your pet.

4. Be prepared for disasters. Have a plan for your pet in the event of fire, flood, hurricane, or tornado.

5. In case something happens to you have a plan for your pet's future. Visit www.hsus.org/petsinwills for more information.

6. For dog bite prevention and how to avoid dog bites, go to www.NoDogBites.org

7. Have a heart, be smart and make sure your pet is spayed or neutered.

From The Humane Society of the United States