The responsible ownership of cats and dogs comprises a set of duties for safeguarding the health and welfare of these animals as sentient beings. A pet’s quality of life largely depends on the owner's understanding of its specific needs, and his or her capacity to meet them. A responsible owner commits to take lifelong care of the animal. Therefore, responsible ownership directly connects to the social and financial situation as well as to the health status of the owner. In addition, responsible ownership is a means of reducing stray animal populations, the cost of stray animal management and the spread of disease, according to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE).