QUESTIONS TO ASK

When deciding whether or not you should have a dog, there are some important questions you should ask yourself:

Is it likely that I will still be able to look after a dog many years from now?

Would all my close family members like a dog to join us?

In the knowledge that a dog cannot regularly be left alone all day, will someone be at home for a large portion of each day?

Is my home and garden suitable for a dog? If not, can I carry out any alterations or repairs, which may be necessary?

Is the area I live in built-up?

Will I have complaints from neighbors?

Food, vaccinations and veterinary bills will need to be taken care of. Can I afford the upkeep of a dog?

Should I take out a pet insurance policy, in the knowledge that routine vaccinations, will not be covered by this?

Is a new baby expected in the home? If so, would it be wiser to wait until the baby is a little older?

Is any member of my immediate family asthmatic or likely to be allergic to dogs?

FINDING A DOG

Planning to spend the next 10-15 years with a dog means your initial selection must be made carefully, ensuring that your new-found friend has had the best possible start in life. Never be tempted to buy from a pet shop or other retail outlet, as in doing so you will only encourage irresponsible breeders to produce yet more litters, purely for cash gain. Many people prefer to buy their dogs as puppies but they demand more time and care.

Rescue dogs should have seen a vet before they are rehoused so new owners can find out about their particular needs.

Special arrangements which may have to be made to accommodate a dog in your home, will depend to a large extent on the type of dog you have, its size, activity level, and, surprisingly enough, weather or not it has a tail. The enthusiastic tail of a large dog can do untold damage to precious ornaments neatly displayed on a low table, so do bear this in mind and keep precious items out of harms way.

To have a happy mutual relationship with your dog, then training, at least to some degree, is a necessity. Although some breeds are more responsive to training then others, most are capable of absorbing the basics. If they do not, then the fault is likely to be that of the handler. Leash training is a must because when away from home your dog will need to be on a secure leash in public places.

All of the above, are things that I would like everyone considering adopting, or purchasing a dog to consider. Adding a dog to your life is like adding a new baby to the family, all aspects must be thought of very carefully.

Before you open the door to dog ownership please consider all aspects of it.

Good Luck & Happy
Tails to you!!