Adopt the Right Dog

Are your kids begging you to adopt a dog? Mine did - since they could talk. It took me a long time to decide on adopting a dog. I worked full time, plus I had two kids, a house that needed cleaning, a yard that needed constant care, and I was tired! I'd had dogs my whole childhood, and I really would have loved to have one. But I knew how much work they were. I couldn't imagine taking on another "child."

If you're thinking about adopting a dog, be sure you know what you're getting into. I want you to give your adopted dog a forever home. So many unwanted dogs and puppies end up back in the pound and animal shelters they came from. People see a cute puppy and become blinded by their cuteness. Don't believe your kids promises, "I promise I'll walk him and feed him. I promise I'll take care of him." Now, I'm not telling you your kids will intentionally lie to you, just that they may not realize what a big job it is.

Dogs need feeding, walking, grooming, playing with, visits to the veterinarian; and puppies need potty training, You'll need to clean up after him inside the house - vacuum the floors and furniture, and mop the muddy footprints they track in. Outside you'll need to pick up the poop in the yard, and while you're on your walks. You'll need to fill in the holes he digs. Do you have a fenced yard? You might have to build one! Food, grooming, toys, and visits to the vet all cost money.

Okay, I guess it sounds like I'm trying to talk you OUT of adopting a dog. Well, I am - IF you aren't prepared to care for and love him for up to 15 years. Where will your kids who are helping now be in 15 years?

I just want anyone who is considering adopting a dog to be absolutely positive, (barring extreme circumstances) that they are committed to loving and caring for their dog for its entire life.

Learn all you need to know about adopting the right dog.

http://adopt-the-right-dog.com