5 Common Mistakes Kenyan Pet Owners Make
You are making a mistake and you may not know. Whether you're a first-time pet owner in your Nairobi apartment or have many fur friends at your Karen home...
Here are five common mistakes to avoid.
1. Inappropriate Diet Choices
You may be feeding your pet the same food as you. Sharing an ugali or sukuma wiki might seem like an act of love. But, pets have specific nutritional needs that differ from humans. It's advisable to go for local pet foods or imported brands formed specific for pets.
If you prefer home-cooked meals, consult with a local veterinarian. Like those at Karen Veterinary Clinic or Parklands Veterinary Center
-for proper recipes and supplements.
2. Inadequate Veterinary Care
Skipping annual check-ups and vaccinations until he/she becomes sick. This can be common because quality veterinary care can be expensive especially clinics in areas like Westlands or Lavington.
Schedule regular preventative care visits. Vaccinations against diseases like rabies, parvovirus, and distemper are essential. Especially given Kenya's climate which can harbor various pet diseases.
Consider pet health insurance. Companies like AAR or Jubilee Insurance offer insurance to make costs more manageable.
3. Insufficient Exercise and Stimulation
Do you underestimate your pets' need for exercise and mental stimulation?
I hope you don't assume your small dog doesn't need much exercise or that your cats are okay without playtime.
- Make time for daily walks at local parks like Karura Forest or Arboretum.
- Invest in interactive toys available at pet stores like PetStore Kenya or PetZone.
- Consider hiring a professional dog walker if you are too busy at work. These services are available in Nairobi, stop making excuses.
4. Poor Breed Selection
Stop choosing pet breeds based on status or appearance. Choose based on lifestyle compatibility.
I know you want that Big Russian husky or a Persian cat. Without considering Kenya's climate or the breed's exercise and grooming requirements-
you are giving your pet a hard time and I know they don't want to disappoint you.
If you are going for those breeds, do a proper breed research. Consider local adapted breeds or mixed-breed pets that do better in Kenya's climate. Consult with trusted breeders like the East Africa Kennel Club. Also adoption centers such as Kenya Society for the Protection and Care of Animals (KSPCA).
If not, a Mutina isn't that bad after all. Some say its the Toyota of Dogs, very reliable and low maintenance.
5. Inadequate Training and Socialization
Many Kenyan pet owners neglect proper training and socialization, leading to behavioral problems. Stop assuming your pet will naturally know how to behave or that training is only for working dogs.
- Invest in proper training. Consider reputable trainers like those at Nairobi Dog Training Club.
- Take them to pet-friendly venues like Waterfront Karen or Karura Forest. They can safely interact with other animals and people.
- Join pet owner groups on social media. You will meet Kenyan pet parents who share advice and organize meetups.
6. Spoil them (Bonus)
Do you still want to show off your pet's expensive taste for the gram? Head on to Zivoll and see luxury items that will catch your viewers attention.
And yes I am biased, I have to promote my brand :)
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Hope you have seen some of your common mistakes.
Ensure your pet lives a happier, healthier life by following the solutions provided. And you'll enjoy the benefits of a happy companion in your Kenyan home. Anyway, catch you later.
Stay Pawsitive.