Things You Need to Know About Owning a Dog In Florida

We are always ready to be an owner of a furry animal. After all, we all love the idea of having someone always ready to shower its unconditional love on us whenever we enter a home after a tiring day.

Someone who pampers us when we are feeling down. Or someone who never says ‘no’ when we want to go out for a walk. And who does all this better than our canine buddies?

But becoming a dog owner can be a bit tricky as dog-ownership laws vary from one state to another. You have to follow and stick to some rules and regulations before meeting your pup.

Just like other states, Florida has some laws for dog owners which you need to follow before kick-starting happy and warm days in Florida’s sunny weather with a new puppy.

If you are thinking of bringing furry happiness in your life, then here is what you need to know:

Dog Vaccination and Health Testing:

According to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer protection, you should buy a vaccinated dog against diseases like Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza, Canine Distemper and Leptospirosis. And in case the dog in a deal is over three months, then the dog must have a rabies shot.

Moreover, the dog should be tested for intestinal parasites and heartworm disease. And all these vaccinations and tests should be run by a licensed veterinarian who will also issue a certificate.

Post-Purchase Exam:

Florida’s law states that after the purchase, you have 14 days to take your dog for a post-purchase exam. If the examination indicates your dog is unfit, then you have several options to make a claim.

• You can return the pet with a refund claim
• You can ask for an exchange
• You can also demand treatment bills from the seller

But you can’t ask for the bill amount more than the purchase price of the pet. You can also seek redress under Pet Lemon Law of Florida in case of extreme congenital diseases. But for all these claims to stand valid, the pet being considered should undergo examination within 14 days. After that, the seller can’t be held responsible for any kind of issue.

Monthly Heartworm Prevention:

Florida’s warm weather is perfect for outdoor activities with your dog. But it also means that you have to take extra care of your dog’s health because mosquitoes thrive in Florida year-round.

So, it is very essential that you should go for monthly heartworm vaccination because a single mosquito can infect your dog with heartworm. And treatment of heartworm disease can cost you more than monthly vaccination. And you know: Prevention is better than cure!

Be-aware of Wildlife Hazard:

Florida is also known for its wildlife, like venomous snakes, raccoons, foxes, pigs, etc. So, never let your dog wander around all alone. Also, don’t let your dog go near woods or swim in lakes, streams, or rivers.

Besides snakes, other animals can also be dangerous for your pup because they can transmit rabies, mange, and heartworms. In case you think that your dog has encountered any of the wildlife, then take them for a check-up as soon as possible.

Owning a dog comes with a huge responsibility. You can’t buy them recklessly, and you can’t keep them carelessly. Make sure you fulfill all of these responsibilities to ensure your dog’s health and your happiness.

After all, dogs are our little packet of happiness, and we want them to be healthy and fit! Right? Right!

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