Author: Dogs' Info Planet
Question #1: Is the 'timing' right?
One reason many dogs end up neglected and abandoned is that their
owners took on the responsibility at the wrong time. If your living situation
is unstable, it is best to put off getting a dog until you have the resources
and secure environment necessary to care for him properly.
No matter how badly you want a dog in your life, do not give in to
temptation or impatience, and don't fool yourself into thinking you'll “make it
work somehow.”
Dogs need food, walks and loving attention on a regular and daily
basis. It is neither fair nor humane to
deny a dog proper vaccinations simply because you can't afford them. Nor is it
fair to force a big, active dog into a tiny apartment.
Caring for any pet is a commitment, so make sure it is the right time
and place for both you.
Question #2: Can I afford it?
Caring for a pet properly costs more than you think. Spaying or
neutering, vaccinations and lifelong vet visits need to be factored in along
with nutritious food.
Many people wrongly assume that if they can just cover the basics
upfront, they'll be set. This assumption is based on the shaky premise that
their dog will not have some hidden health issue crop up, or encounter some
kind of injury outdoors.
Can you afford to provide the best care for your dog in the event of an
emergency? Think carefully about this
and answer honestly. You'll save yourself some potentially serious heartbreak.
There's nothing worse than having to 'put down' a young pet simply
because you couldn't afford their health care.
Question #3: Dependency needs
Dogs are like babies that never grow up. If you have children, you know
they eventually use the restroom on their own, make their own snacks and
actively communicate with you when they need something.
Dogs, however, can't do this. They can't open their food and pour it
into the bowl. They can't open the door when you're not home if they need to go
outside. Think twice about getting a dog if you are easily frustrated by
creatures being dependent on you 24/7 for their well-being.
Also, be especially cautious if your children or your spouse are the
ones wanting a dog. They may insist that they will do their share of the care
taking, but what if they don't?
Question #4: Do I want a dog because I'm bored?
Dogs can add much to your life when you find your match, and when the
timing is right. However, buying a dog out of boredom is a sure recipe for
disaster. What will you do when the novelty wears off? Will you still be willing to care for your
dog and offer him a generous share of your time and attention?
Question #5: Lifestyle and Scheduling
Do the daily needs of a dog fit into your lifestyle? If you have a high-powered job or a full
schedule at school, will you really have the time to walk and play with your
dog each day?
Who would tend to your dog's needs during the day if you're away from
home for 12 hours a day?
What if you decide to start a family?
Will you and your spouse be able to care the dog even after you've got
your hands full with newborn babies?
Do you travel frequently? Who
will take care of your dog when you're out of town? Do you even spend enough
times at home between trips to maintain a bond with your dog?
Question #6: Home Environment
Is the atmosphere in your home casual and relaxed, or is it fraught
with tension? Dogs pick up on people's
emotions. Disruptions in family relationships affect your dog as much as you.
Fights and screaming will scare your dog and lead to new behavioral problems.
Also consider how you feel about cleanliness and order. Dogs need a
clean, healthy environment, but not one in which they are prohibited from
acting like dogs.
Accidents and messes are inevitable. Are you going to go ballistic on
your dog if he knocks over a $1,000 vase?
Do you have a sick or elderly person living with you who could be
injured or disturbed by a dog's barking?
If any of the above apply, now is not the time for you to bring a dog
into the home.
Tags:
| 
Print this page
