For as long as I can remember, I’ve always had a dog. But when I left my parent’s home and migrated to another country. I missed the companionship of a dog but I know I was not ready to have a dog then.
I see and hear stories of dogs being abandoned and abused. My heart breaks for these dogs because they are suffering because people are irresponsible, uncaring, selfish, self-centered.
So please before you get a dog, think, and ask yourself these questions first:
- Why do want a dog? Are you trying to feel a void in your life? Do you want a companion? Do you want to care for something? Do you have time to take care of a dog? Do you have time to prepare your dog’s food?
- Do you have time to give them a bath and groom your dog? Do you have time to bring them to the vet? Do you have time to play and bond with your dog?
- Do you have the energy to take care of a dog? If your dog sheds, are you ready to wash, clean, and vacuum your home. If your dog had an accident, are you ready to clean after your dog?
- Do you have the finances to take care of a dog? Dogs need food, water, and shelter. Will you be able to buy food, provide water, and a place for your dog to stay? Will you buy a dog bed or a dog crate?
- Do you have the right temperament to be a dog owner? Are you a calm, caring, compassionate, patient, and friendly person?
- If you live alone, how do you plan to take care of your dog while you are at work?
- Does your current lifestyle allow you to have a dog? Do you work from home? Do you travel?
- Have you researched what kind of breed you want based on your personality and lifestyle? If you have kids, does this breed do well with children? If you have other pets, does this breed do well with your other pets?
- Do you know how big your dog will get so you know what to expect?
- Do you see the benefits and the joy that dog training will bring? Will you set aside money for your dog training?
The greatest benefit of dog training, it enhances the bond between you and your dog. You form a stronger bond since you are able to do a lot of activities together because they have good manners when around people and other dogs. - If you have to travel or would have to leave your dog for long periods of time, do you have alternatives options for your dog, i.e. a neighbor, a family member, or a friend that can care for your dog temporarily? Or do you have the finances to board them in a dog boarding facility?
- Would you consider getting dog insurance to cover his regular vet care, checkup, vaccinations, accidents requiring veterinarian management? Or will you be able to have funds available for those dog emergencies?
- Are you wanting a dog from a breeder or a shelter?
- A practical test. When you go walking in the neighborhood and your dog poops, will you have a bag in hand to collect your dog’s stool and dispose of it properly? Are you a responsible dog owner?
- Are you healthy physically, mentally, and emotionally fit to care for a dog? You cannot give what you do not have. You cannot pour from an empty cup.
Let’s Be Realistic
Please take the time to answer these questions before you get yourself a dog. Dogs are cute and bring so much happiness but they need you as you need them.
Imagine what your life will be when your dog is already in your home. Imagine getting up with the dog and having to go outside with your dog to do his business. Imagine having to clean up after your dog after he does his business. Preparing his food, playing, and grooming your dog. What will be your routine with a dog in the picture? Doing this will show you how realistic having a dog in your life will be. If you are even ready for one.
Getting a dog is not something that you do on a whim. It’s a decision with long term consequences.
Now if you find yourself ready for a dog in your life. Prepare to enjoy your dog and the benefits of having a dog to your mind, body, and health.
But if things change and you find yourself unable to take care of your dog anymore. Do not just abandon or neglect them. Bring them to a shelter, try to find them a home, surrender, and leave them in a safe place where somebody can care for them. Our dogs understand and feel, so, please…
