Things to Consider Before Getting a Dog
Giving a home to a dog can be such a wonderful thing. You can form such a special bond with that furry little creature that it becomes part of your family. However, owning a pet is not for everyone. It’s a lot of responsibility, so you want to make sure you know what you’re getting into before you make your final decision. Here are some things you’ll need to consider.
Do You Have Time?
Pets can be a lot of work. This is especially true if you get a puppy. Puppies are so much fun and lovable, but they need a lot of attention, and you’ll have to house train it. This takes time, and young dogs often get up in the middle of the night quite a few times, and they need to be taken out multiple times throughout the day. Even then, a puppy is still going to have a few accidents. You’ll then have to take the time to handle carpet shampooing. Some breeds also require quite a bit of exercise, so make sure you have the time to take your new pet on plenty of walks if you choose one of those.
Who Will Take Care of It?
If your children are begging you for a dog, they are probably making all kinds of promises about how you won’t have to lift a finger. They may say they’ll do all of the work, but it’s more likely that you’ll need to step in and help quite a bit. It’s important that you figure out all aspects of the dog’s care before you bring it home. This can help you avoid a very frustrating situation.
Can You Afford It?
Dogs can be expensive. Of course, you’ll have to buy food, a dog bed, some toys and other basic necessities, but there are other expenses that many people don’t think about. For instance, your dog will need to go to the vet a few times a year for shots and check ups. If you go out of town, you’ll need to factor in the expense of boarding your dog or having someone come over to stay with it.
Once you’ve figured out all of these details, you can start figuring out what kind of dog might be right for you. It’s OK if you’ve thought about it and don’t think now is the right time. It’s always better to wait than to bring home a furry friend that you aren’t able to fully take care of.
