Thinking About Getting A Dog?
Thinking About Getting a Dog?
D. S. Mitchell
Dogs save lives in more ways than one. But sometimes we, or the family, are not in the right place, time-wise, geographically, or emotionally to bring a new friend laden with responsibilities into our lives. With the holidays fast approaching, many of us think, “wouldn’t a puppy make a perfect Christmas gift for Johnny, or Jenny Jr?”
Maybe, maybe not.
The time commitment required for a new puppy is often ignored. Before you start looking for that new pup, make sure that you have the time and the energy required to daily commit to your new best buddy. Puppies will need to go out every hour until they are house trained. You or your children will need to be ready to commit no less than two hours daily for play, exercise, socialization and stimulation. Additionally, puppies because they are rapidly growing, need to be fed and watered three times a day.
Activity level of the animal is probably one of the most important considerations when deciding on a new pet. Make sure the new animal will fit into the way you and your family live your lives. If you are a couch potato a three-month old greyhound pup may not be your best choice. Describe your lifestyle to the folks at the shelter and they will be able to offer some great options.
Before you make the commitment, observe your kids with a dog. Offer to pet sit for a friend, or foster an animal. Fostering offers your family an opportunity to experience owning a pet without the trauma of making a bad choice. Fostering can last for a few days, or a few months.
Puppies are so adorable, but they are demanding, and require a lot of attention. Maybe an adult dog would be a better fit? The mature dog will need all the things a puppy needs, but on a smaller less demanding scale. Adult dogs have more impulse control and they are better able to understand and fit into established family routines. They need less stimulation, exercise and patience than puppies, but they still need each of these things.
Can you afford a pet? Estimates show that on adoption day, if you go thru your local shelter, you may spend anywhere from $50 to $300. During the first year you can expect to spend $1,000 or more for your new dog. Some Humane Society shelters spay and neuter all animals, others do not. So remember, to ask about spaying and neutering before you decide on an animal.
Your new pet may come without a health history. Even if they have a health history record, you will still need to schedule an appointment with a vet as soon as possible, so the pet can be examined, vaccinated, checked for parasites and neutered or spayed if it has not been done. Untreated parasites can be transferred from dogs to humans so be sure to do this immediately.
New pets need things. Such as; crate, collar, leash, waste bags, bed, bowls for water and food, cleaning supplies, food and treats, doorway gate, grooming tools, ID tag, license and toys. If the shelter has given the dog bedding or a favorite toy ask if you can take it home for the pet. Something familiar is good. It is important to make the transition from home to shelter as easy as possible for all concerned. Pick up the pet when you are sure you will have a few days at home and let the animal settle in without lots of visitors and the stress of a school and workday.
It is recommended that the pet should be restricted to one room or a small area for the first day or two, gradually expanding the area where the pet is allowed. Don’t forget this can be an overwhelming time with new faces, voices and open spaces.
Picking a name. Many dogs have already been given a name. If you like the name keep it. But, don’t feel that you can’t change the pet’s name. Dogs adapt quickly. Make it a game to find the best name for your new family member. A one or two-syllable name is easier for both the animal and the kids. Remember, there will be times when you will want to call the dog. Holler out the name, does it make you feel stupid? Then that probably is not the best choice. “Honey Bunny” sounds great in the house, but calling out “Honey Bunny” as you search the neighborhood might cause some personal humiliation.
Share the responsibilities. Make sure everyone pitches in. Some chores are appropriate for kids depending on their age of course, such as providing fresh water, feeding, playing, walking and grooming. Initially, all chores should be supervised by an adult. I saw one article on pet adoption that suggested an interactive chore wheel. But, whatever the method you choose, please divvy up the duties. Make it clear that if someone can’t fulfill their chores they need to let someone else take over for them. That pet depends on its owners for food, water, shelter, activity and love. Make sure that those duties are fulfilled everyday.
If you choose to bring a four-legged friend into your home they will give you more love than you ever imagined, make sure that you are in the right place to return their love and dedication.
