Considering a Furry Addition to the Family? Here’s What You Need to Know
“I am thinking of adopting a dog from a shelter, but this would be my first time. Where should I start? I want to ensure my first dog adoption is a smooth experience.” If this sounds familiar, you’re on the right track, and you’re starting in the right place.
Having a dog is a full-time responsibility, akin to adding another child to your family. Only consider bringing home a furry friend when you’re entirely sure you’re ready. If you’ve already made up your mind, feel free to skim past the initial paragraphs and delve into the more in-depth information we’ve provided below.
The question, “Should I get a dog?” is the first and most crucial one you and your entire family need to ask. Rushing into dog ownership often contributes to the sadly high euthanasia rates due to overpopulated shelters filled with unwanted dogs. Misjudgment, rash decisions, and lack of understanding about a dog’s needs are the primary causes.
It’s heart-wrenching to note that about 12 million homeless and abused dogs are euthanized annually. Why? Because people are often ill-prepared for the responsibilities of dog ownership, finding it too overwhelming.
Getting a dog isn’t a temporary experiment. It’s a lifetime commitment, ranging from 9 to 18 years. The question, “Should I get a dog?” requires serious contemplation and adequate information. While shelters may be lenient about returning unwanted dogs, it’s unfortunate as it fuels a vicious cycle of breeding and rehoming.
Some shelters might claim a “no-kill” policy, yet they often resort to euphemisms like “euthanasia” to soften the harsh reality. They may also send unwanted dogs to other shelters, circumventing the no-kill principle.
In today’s digital age, there’s no excuse for people not to know what they’re getting into when adopting from breeders or kennels. Numerous resources online, such as the AKC, SPCA, and ASPCA, provide essential information and urge potential dog owners to understand the commitment of owning a dog. Some individuals, unfortunately, are just not cut out for dog ownership.
If you’re uncertain about handling a dog, consider adopting an older one from a shelter. These dogs are usually house-trained and well-mannered, unlike puppies. By adopting a mature dog, you’ll not only give a second chance to a loving pet but also help alleviate the overpopulation issue in shelters.
Don’t fall into the trap of thinking, “I’ll try a dog, and if it doesn’t work out, I can leave him at a shelter.” If that’s your mindset, reconsider getting a dog at all. Remember, it’s not just about you; it’s about the welfare of a living being who deserves a loving, forever home.
Contemplating a Canine Companion? Essential Questions to Ponder
Why do you desire a dog? There are myriad reasons, and not all are necessarily sound.
If your answer is, “My kids are begging for a dog,” think again. Children’s enthusiasm for a new pet can swiftly wane, leaving you to manage feeding, vet appointments, walks, and doggy toilet breaks. A dog shouldn’t be adopted merely to fulfil a child’s whims. Consider waiting until your kids are past their toddler years and prepared to take on some of the pet responsibilities.
Are you hoping for a guard dog in the backyard? Dogs are sociable creatures that need interaction with their humans. Regardless of the breed, dogs shouldn’t be left outdoors all day without human contact. Chaining a dog and neglecting it can lead to aggression and behavioural issues, which can be considered animal abuse in certain places.
Is the idea to surprise your mom who lives alone with a dog? Absolutely not! Dogs shouldn’t be gifted without the recipient’s consent. Your mom might enjoy her independence and freedom, and the responsibility of caring for a dog might not be what she wants. Always have an open discussion before gifting someone a pet.
Reflect on these questions truthfully:
Will I have time every day for the next 15 years to feed, train, exercise, and care for a dog? If not, do I have someone reliable to help me? Can I choose a dog based on its temperament and needs rather than its looks? Am I ready to invest both time and money to ensure the dog’s wellbeing, even if it means spending thousands on unexpected expenses?
If you’re a busy executive or a working parent with young kids, you should reconsider getting a dog. A dog requires companionship and shouldn’t be left alone for prolonged periods. If you’re a business owner who can take the dog to work or a part-time worker with a flexible schedule, you might be well-suited to dog ownership.
Another aspect to consider is the dog’s size. Puppies may be small, but they grow. If you live in an apartment, a high-energy or large dog might not be the best fit. Large dogs also require more resources, making them costlier to maintain. On the other hand, very small dogs may not be the best choice for families with young children due to their fragility.
Think about the original purpose of the dog breed. Some breeds, like guard dogs, may be overprotective and not ideal for apartment living or households with frequent guests. Also, if you don’t have ample time for training, opt for a breed known for its quick learning.
Grooming needs are also essential to consider. Some breeds require regular grooming, which involves time and expense. Meanwhile, short-haired breeds may shed excessively, requiring daily brushing.
Certain breeds have specific health considerations. Some dogs with long floppy ears are prone to ear infections and require regular ear cleaning. Dogs with prominent eyes may need special eye care. These are all part of responsible dog care and must be considered when deciding on a breed. Remember, dog ownership requires time, commitment, and dedication, not just from children, but primarily from adults.
Are You Ready for a Dog? Navigating Training and Commitment
Once you’ve decided to welcome a dog into your home, be prepared for an immediate start to training. This journey, akin to a full-time job, commences with house-training and socializing your new pet. It’s also essential to decide beforehand if the dog will have access to furniture or specific outdoor areas. If you’re adopting a puppy, you’ll need to choose between paper training or crate training.
The aim should be to have your dog fully trained by the time it’s a year old, with the bulk of the training taking place between three and eight months. If you’re adopting from a shelter, there’s a high chance the dog will already be house-trained and might even know a few commands, but training doesn’t stop there. Your new pet will need to understand what behaviour is acceptable.
Now ask yourself:
Is everyone in the house onboard with adopting a dog? If not, reconsider. Are you ready to spend at least $1,000 annually for the dog’s upkeep? If you’re keen on a puppy, are you prepared for daily walks in all weather conditions for the next 10 to 15 years? If you’re a senior citizen, will you still be capable of walking and taking care of a dog in the future? Are you ready to forgo long vacations to care for your elderly dog?
Getting a dog mirrors the responsibility of having a child. Are you prepared for potential future expenses like veterinary care, which could range from $3,000 to $6,000, or more? A healthy dog also needs regular exercise. Can you commit to walking or jogging with your dog twice daily for the next 10 to 15 years?
Training a dog requires time and patience. Most dogs enjoy training and aim to please, but they need to be taught the difference between right and wrong. A training session could last anywhere between three to fifteen minutes, two to three times a day, depending on the breed and the command.
Understanding what dog ownership truly entails is crucial. Many people are caught off guard by the disruption a new dog can bring, from soiled carpets to chewed furniture, leading to the dog being neglected or returned to the shelter. It’s vital to do your homework before bringing a dog home.
Rescue shelters constantly receive new dogs, varying from purebreds to puppies and mixed breeds. Take your time, visit different shelters, and don’t rush the decision.
The ASPCA has released an estimated annual cost for owning a dog, considering factors like grooming for a long-haired dog, medium-grade food, regular vet check-ups, and mandatory vaccinations. The costs vary depending on the dog’s size:
Small dog, one year: $420 Medium dog, one year: $620 Large dog, one year: $780
These figures don’t include initial adoption or purchase costs, spaying/neutering, vaccinations, dog accessories, or additional expenses. The decision to get a dog should always consider the financial commitment involved.