Is a Dog Right for Me?

On any given day of the week, you can go to the local humane society or ASPCA and see many animals that are no longer wanted. Some of these poor pets have had homes for years and years and because they got old and are now difficult to care for, their owners gave them up rather than be there for their pets last days. Others are still young, their owners did not do the proper research before getting a puppy and when they realized the work involved, they gave them up. Cats are also there, and many people want a cute and cuddly kitten but not an independent cat.

The ONLY way to change this is for people to do the research before getting a pet. This article will focus on dogs and the research that needs to be done on them.

Here is a list of questions you must have answered before you get a pet.

1. Will this animal be a part of my family?
2. Am I willing to take the time to train this dog in obedience, house training, and am I patient enough for this?
3. How big is this dog going to get and do I have the space necessary?
4. Can I afford the veterinarian's bills?
5. Can I keep this animal properly groomed?
6. Do I have the space that this dog will need?
7. Am I going to be able to give the dog lots of love and attention?
8. Will I get the right foods for this dog?
9. If I go away, do I have someone that can care for my pet?
10. If this dog gets sick, can I afford to care for him, and can I commit to him even when he is older and needy?

If ANY of these answers are no when you do your research, that pet is not for you. Puppies are cute and cuddly. They are furry, energetic, and lovable. Who wouldn't want one? But puppies are a lot of work! They need training, they need attention, and they need love. They chew on things when they are teething, they have accidents, and they are very messy. Some puppies, like Saint Bernards, German Shepards, and Great Danes, grow to be very large. Making sure that you can accommodate an animal that size is very important.

Be sure that you research all of the possible health issues that come with the breed of dog you are planning to adopt. Many smaller dogs, like shitzus get ear and eye infections. Larger dogs can get bloat and joint issues. Be prepared to care for your dog if they get ill. Smaller dogs live long lives, and need a lot of care as they age. Larger dogs need just as much care as they age, but the life span is not as long.

It is very important that you care for your pets, they are loyal and loving, and they deserve the same in return. It is unfair to you, the dog, and your family to adopt a pet that you are not prepared to care for until their life is over. Please do your research, and do not make an impulsive decision without being ready for everything that comes along with the purchase of a new pet.