The American Kennel Club has designated September as Responsible Dog Ownership month. While I like the idea of reminding dog owners of the importance of caring for their pet, every month should be responsible dog ownership month.

When you add a dog to your life, you are making a commitment. There are many aspects of responsible pet ownership. There are questions of time for exercise and training. There are financial questions too. The first years of a dog's life has expensive start up costs. The price of the pup, veterinary care and, yes, training.

The first responsibility is one of time. Do you have time to spend with your dog everyday? Can you walk him before and after work or school? It is not fair to crate your dog endless hours. They are companion animals. Puppies require enormous amounts of time and energy. If you really want a dog, perhaps an adult dog could adapt to your schedule. It might be wiser to volunteer at the Humane Society if you need some time with a dog but lead a busy life. Many behavioral problems are due to lack of exercise and too much time alone.

Another responsibility is cleaning up after your dog when you exercise him. I am sure the biggest reason dogs are not welcome in many parks is that owners do not scoop the poop. Ever walk the Barber Bridge and find a big pile on the path? That is just rude. If we want places to be dog friendly, we need to leave the areas clean.

Veterinary care is an issue for many people. Your dog needs vaccines and heartworm prevention. My personal opinion is all pets should be spay or neutered. Unless your dog is a champion, there is no reason to perpetuate his genes. There are purebred dogs of every description in rescues and Humane Societies. Neutered pets live longer and healthier lives.

It is a responsibility to teach your dog to be pleasant and not annoy the neighbors. A trained dog is a pleasure to live with. Find the time to socialize your puppy. Take a group training class and learn the basic skills that can enhance and save your dogs life. Training is time well invested.

Keeping your dog safe is another obligation. Confine your dog in your yard and keep him on lead. Loose dogs are at risk. They can be hit by cars, picked up by animal control or stolen.

The hardest part of responsible dog ownership is the end. After a dog lifetime of love, we often face the decision of euthanasia. It is so difficult to know when your dog is no longer enjoying life. One thing to remember is dogs do not really think about the future. They live in the present. When their quality of life diminishes, it is a kindness to let them go.

If you have a dog in your life, or are thinking of adding one, take time to be sure you can provide time and training as well as love. It is a commitment that can bring pleasure and joy, but requires careful consideration.

Cissy Sumner of Best Behavior Dog Training is Vero's first Certified Pet Dog Trainer. If you have a training or behavior question, email Cissy at bbdogtraining@bellsouth.net. Visit www.pawprintsofverobeach.com for group training information. Private training is available by appointment.