Finding a Perfect Four-Legged Companion

I have always had a dog companion in my life. There is no greater joy than the unconditional love given by these gentle, kindhearted animals. Growing up my family did not have our own dog, but the neighbors' German Sheppard spent most of the day in our yard playing with us. My first pet was a Doberman Pincher. She was the runt of the litter, and no one wanted her so I adopted her. I had the privilege of enjoying her friendship for 10 years before she fell ill.

The second one I have now is a mixed breed. We believe she is a Norwegian Elk hound mixed with Husky. I adopted her a month after I lost my dear friend Sabby. I learned a lot between my two different animal friends. I am not an animal expert, just experienced in 20 years of having pets in my home, and what they had taught me over the years.

When choosing a animal companion, it can be difficult since there is so many that need homes. My spouse and I take our pet Tara to the dog park at least once a week. Here we see a wide range of breeds, from Great Danes to Chihuahuas. I do notice the majority of the people have pure breeds. There is nothing wrong with that choice either, as I once owned one myself. I believe, if one would take the time to locate the nearest animal shelter, or even attend a rescued animal event, they could find their perfect animal companion there as well. Many are already trained, house broken, just lost their homes and owners due to unforeseen circumstances, like lost a job or new home that don't allow pets. This is where I found my animal companion I have now. She is just as loving and wonderful as my first.

There are many different things to consider when you are looking for your new pet. Shelters have play rooms where you can take the animal into and spend some time with them to ensure you and the animal click. If the animal wants absolutely nothing to do with you, it probably is not a good companion for you. You should look for one that perks up in your presence, and is not afraid to come to you, or to be touched. Much like people, they may not like one human or another. Different breeds, have different personalities. Some are high strung, some are mellow. If you like to jog , and are looking for a animal friend, maybe consider a bred that has high energy that can be burned off in running with you. If you are more home going, look for an animals who is laid back. They all need exercise and interaction. Do research on the Internet of the different breeds of animals, many offer an insight into the drive, and personality of the animal. So choosing can be more easier for you. If looking into shelters, do a search and mix breeds. Example Shepard/ husky. Search both breeds and get an idea of what their personality is like, keep in mind it will have both qualities in their personality, and think if it will be a good dog for you.

Once you have made the decision of which animal to take home. Training is always a plus, even if they listen well already. Most cities offer training programs through the community centers, from beginners to advanced that is affordable. This will help establish a good bond between you and your new friend. And both lives will be much more enjoyable, and fulfilled.

The lessons I have learned from my animal companion now is many. She was a mischievous puppy. I had her in the vet every week from eating almost anything she could get her mouth on. Along the way I learned many tricks which helped me break her of the bad habits of fun she so enjoyed.

Lava Rocks.-
I hear from many owners at the park how their dogs eat rocks. This can be dangerous as it can block their digestive track. I solved this problem by sprinkling Cayenne pepper onto the lava rocks. After two licks, she wanted nothing to do with them anymore, problem solved.

Digging-
She had a hole dug to China. There was this one spot she loved , all kidding aside, she could fit her head and neck into it. Place large rocks into hole. She tried to continue digging, but failed. Problem solved.

Gnawing-
All puppies need to chew. Even though Rawhide is a great time occupier, there is risks of slivering into their throat as this had happened to my brothers dog, so needless to say never leave unattended while they are chewing that. There is a spray on the market Bitter Apple, it does work, but my dog did not mind the taste. So I used the Cayenne Pepper diluted ( only on something that would not stain) Problem Solved.

De-stuffing toys-
This one was my neighbors dog. The best thing to do here is , remove the squeaker as it could pose a choking hazard if they swallowed it. Just keep needle and thread handy. We never broke him of this habit, but no fear of squeaker lodging in his throat.

Separation Anxiety-
Some animals become panicked when left alone. I found if I turned on the Television to a animal show , the sound seemed to keep her in a calm mood as she was hearing talking, like someone maybe home. A radio works good for this too.

Storms-
Some animals are sensitive to thunderstorms. My first could sense it half hour before it hit, she would head into the basement and stay until it was gone. My second one it doesn't bother her. Here a Crate maybe a good idea. You can place a blanket around the top for more security, so they cant see the flash of lightening. Medication is available to calm animals. I used it one time on my Doberman and I didn't care for it, so I stopped it. She was fine in basement.

My first pet was satisfied with a dog bed in the corner. My second, we purchased a poly crate, and a nice orthopedic dog bed we found at a discount store for $ 25. They make them from small to extra large. This gave her a sense of security, as would a den to a wild dog. We did not use it to punish her, we left the door off and she goes in and out as she wishes. Sometimes she wants to be alone she goes into her crate and naps, or just sits in there relaxing after play.She does not get nervous about thunderstorms but she does go into her crate for security.

Animals can be therapeutic for humans as we hear, the simple petting of an animal can reduce blood pressure. Also the joy they give us by doing silly things that make us laugh. It is a big commitment to have an animal, as it is to have a child. They need regular veterinarian visits for the Rabies, Parvo, Distemper, Heart worm once a year, or every 3 for the Rabies if available in your state. Like humans they can fall ill as well, and may need medication. Make sure you have the time to commit to these animals. Too many are left in shelters hoping for a second chance, because of circumstances they had no control over, like their owner did not have enough time, costs is too much for them, or they moved. Most importantly, if you chose to have a animal companion please spay or neuter. The animal population is overwhelming and there is not enough homes, and too many good animals may be put down. There are dogs and cats as young as 2 that faced their last days in a shelter, until a no kill shelter took them in. Maybe give a shelter dog a second chance at life, they will be very loving and thankful to no end for their new lease on life. If you decide the time is now for pet. I wish you the best of luck in finding your new animal companion and that you have many fun filled years together.