Dogs are fantastic family pets. Unless you’re very busy, or travel a lot, or you like to sleep in on weekends, or you’re just not a dog person. And this is something many people don’t think about until after they have brought a fluffy, scruffy mutt into their home.
You know the drill: The kids are begging you for a pet. You’ve tried to convince them a fish will suffice but to no avail. They promise to feed it and walk it and water it – you interrupt to explain that you don’t actually water a dog so much as put water in a bowl for the dog – and they give you the most angelic little smiles while pleading with their big eyes.
Do not cave!
This dog will not be their dog. It will be your dog. Don’t even entertain the idea for one single minute that they will follow through on any of the promises they’ve made. The only real question here is whether or not you want a dog. Not them. You. Because when the dog needs food, treats and toys, you buy them. When she gets fleas, you treat her and buy her topical solutions. When the dog gets up at 5 a.m. every day to go outside and do his business, you get up with him. When you go out of town you will be the one who has to arrange for pet sitting. And when the dog gets sick, you will be the one taking it to the vet.
If you’ve answered yes to the above question and you do, in fact, want a dog too, congratulations! Head to your nearest animal shelter or local dog rescue and start the process of adopting a dog! You will never regret the life you saved and you will have a faithful companion for years to come. Welcome, my brethren, to the fabulous world of pet parenting. It’s nice here, we have cookies (okay, dog biscuits).
But for the love of all that is lima beans and licorice, do not get a puppy unless you are a very experienced dog owner. Puppies are just like babies, which means sleep training, potty training and teething are all involved. Managing these puppy growing pains can be extra stress when you are already juggling kids, work, etc. Unless you’ve been down this road before, a nice full-grown, house-trained dog is exactly what you’re looking for.
Good luck and may the force be with you.