Michael Vartan’s Dog Care Tips

Actor Michael Vartan, and his canine companion Millie, make the cutest pooch-person pair! Vartan, with Millie’s help, shares tips for other dog guardians on simple ways to make a big difference in your dog’s life. Michael informs PETA, “No matter how hectic my life gets, spending quality time with my best friend, Millie, is always at the top of my list.” Dogs depend on us for love and protection, so it is important to treat them like part of the family.

“It’s really easy to make a huge difference in your dog’s life,” explains Vartan. “I just try and involve [Millie] as much as I can in my everyday activities.” Dogs need regular walks—at least four a day for adult pooches. On walks, our canine companions love to explore the neighborhood and take in all the different smells. Vartan shares, “[W]hen I take [Millie] on a walk, I make sure she gets to sniff as long as she wants. … I always remember this is her walk, so I don’t pull on her and I don’t rush her. These things may seem small to us, but to our dogs they mean the world.”

Dogs are safest and most comfortable wearing a nylon harness, not a collar, when out walking. Choke and prong collars can be painful and could injure your dog. For a dog who pulls too hard, try the Easy Walk™ Harness (available online), which discourages pulling without discomfort to the dog. Dogs also need social interaction and can become depressed if they are deprived of it. Allow your pooch pal to meet and interact with other dogs on walks and at parks. A happy dog’s life is not one long series of commands: Let them live a little, make choices, and take their time. Learn more about being a responsible dog parent and making your furry friends happy in PETA’s guide to caring for dogs.