Are you thinking about getting a puppy? Or a rescue dog?
Getting a dog is not something you can do on a whim. Puppies and adult dogs are a big commitment. Most dogs (on average) live for 10 to 12 years – that is 12 years of taking care of a being that needs your attention, love and time. A dog cannot care for itself the way a human can. They rely on us for their food, health care and love and affection.
Dogs bring love, laughter and sometimes tears into your life. Personally, I can’t imagine my life without them. However, there are a few questions you need to ask yourself before bringing home a pup:
As yourself these questions before adding a new four-legged family member!
1. Do you have a vet? Is he or she experienced and reputable? Ask around and get references. If you have a vet already, does he/she know you are getting a puppy or dog?
Make sure to have an appointment set up for a full health evaluation of your puppy within 3 days of bringing him/her home.
2. Have you had a puppy before? What breed was he/she? How long did he/she live? Think about all your experiences with that pooch – what would you do different? What would you do again? Are you ready for that kind of commitment again?
3. Do you have experience in puppy training? Will you attend training classes? Are you willing to put the time and energy in to training a puppy properly? Will you crate train your pup? Do you know about crate training?
4. Do you have children? What ages are they? Are you too busy looking after young children to look after a puppy? What responsibilities will the children have regarding the new puppy? Do your children act appropriately with dogs now?
5. Do you have a fenced-in yard? How large and how secure is it? Do you have a pool? Is it completely secure so that there is no way to wander into it accidentally?
6. Do you work? How many hours do you work? What is the longest amount of time the pup will be left alone? Will you take your pup to Doggie Day Care or hire a Walking Service so the puppy gets exercise and company while you are at work?
7. Are you able to afford to properly care for a dog? Will you take the dog for regular vet check-ups? Will you feed the dog good quality food? Can you afford to take care of the dog if he/she gets sick or injured?
8. Are you really ready for the responsibility of owning and loving a dog?
Owning and loving a dog is one of the richest experiences of a lifetime. They can bring untold joy into your life! Make sure you can return the favour by giving him/her the best life you possibly can!
Northern Bone Dog Walking
Big or Small – We Walk Them All!
