Responsible Dog Ownership Pledge

From neglect and abuse to not obeying leash laws, irresponsible dog owners continue to fail their beloved pet(s) and communities every day.

We are petitioning dog owners and enthusiasts to remind them that pet ownership is a privilege and consists of legal and moral obligations.

The BYOD (Bring Your Own Dog) Responsible Pet Ownership Pledge, carries out the mission of BYOD, reminding dog owners that they should preserve their community's public safety and health every day, and remain committed to educating others on responsible dog ownership through their daily action and voice.

We strongly oppose the use of breed-specific legislation (BSL) that enforces fines and punishments against certain breeds. BSL affects numerous breeds including, but not limited to: American Bulldogs, Chow Chows, Dalmatians, Doberman Pinschers, German Shepherds, Mastiffs, Rottweilers, and Pit Bulls.

Instead, we urge pet owners, local leaders and lawmakers to enforce legislation that holds all dog owners responsible for the humane care, custody, and control of all dogs regardless of breed or type. This petition was created to help build a community approach on promoting responsible dog ownership and prevent breed misconceptions.

We signed the BYOD Responsible Dog Ownership Pledge to show our commitment to our canine companions. Together, we hope you will sign our pledge, too!

Therefore, as a dog owner and signing this pledge, you agree to carry out the following responsibilities:

• Commit to the relationship for the life of your pet(s)
  
  
• Guarantee proper nutrition and shelter
  
  

• Properly groom your dog, depending on your dog's needs
  
  
• Prioritize regular veterinary care and vaccinations
  
  
• Ensure dog has a proper form of pet-identification (Example: Microchip ID)
  
  
• Practice proper dog training and mental stimulation
  
  
• Provide an appropriate amount of exercise
  
  
• Adhere to local leash and pooper scooper laws
  
  
• Support the mission of local animal shelter and rescue organizations
  
  
• Practice safe dog interaction and understand that your dog's behavior is your responsibility 

By signing this pledge, you also encourage communities to offer easily accessible educational programs or materials that teach pet selection strategies, pet care and responsibility, and bite prevention. Thus, shifting pet responsibility from dogs and back to the humans.

How you can help:

1. Please sign your name below and subscribe to become part of our online and offline educational discussions.
   
   
2. Share the petition with five other people and invite them to take action and promote responsible dog ownership.
   
   
3. Keep us informed about breed specific legislation that may be pending in your city or state.
   
   
4. Download our free educational guides on responsible dog ownership here.
   
   
5. Be a responsible dog owner and encourage others to do the same!

Learn more about BYOD and its educational outreach on BYODPawtners.org

Sniff us out on: 

Facebook facebook.com/byodcities

Instagram instagram.com/byodcities