Are You Ready To Add A Dog To Your Family?
When you make the decision to adopt a dog you are really adding a new member to your family. It’s a long term commitment and not one to be taken lightly. In fact, it is very similar to adding a new baby to your home. I know, I know – you may be thinking that a dog is not equal to a human being, but once you read this article you will understand what I mean.
Your home has to be dog-proofed. This may or may not mean adding a new fence around the yard but it will certainly mean making some basic changes inside your home. One of the most fundamental of these changes will include being extra cautious about the things you leave accessible to your new family member.
This can include such things as shoes, belts, wallets, purses, electrical cords, plants, and the list goes on and on. Almost every puppy goes through a stage of chewing on things. And this often includes things that you would rather keep in intact and things that are not particularly safe for a dog to chew on.
Another issue can be something quite different. If your dog is trained to use pee pads he or she is likely to also use any other item that is remotely similar, which may be on the floor. This can include such things as newspaper, magazines, coloring books, or even throw rugs. Some dogs seem to think that if it is on the floor it must be a type of pee pad.
Dogs come with expenses too. You will need to purchase accessory items like dog beds, crates, toys, dog bowls, collars, leashes, and more. The food you provide for your pet is only the beginning of the costs involved in properly caring for him or her. Dogs, like people, need regular visits to a healthcare professional. A puppy, just like a human baby, needs to have a series of vaccinations and treatments. Even a healthy older dog should have regular veterinarian visits, plus you will need to provide him or her with monthly heartworm protection as well as flea preventatives.
I know this sounds like a lot of work and money. And the truth is that it is! But dogs give so much in return. They are our best friends. No matter how badly you may mess up in life, your dog will love you. All you have to do is give him or her the care required and mix in some love – his companionship will be everlasting.
The reality is that I couldn’t imagine life without dogs. They are so much more than a pet. Dogs become family members that everyone loves.
So are you ready to adopt a dog? My suggestion is, adopt two!
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Tags: adopt a dog, chew, chewing, collars, crates, dog beds, dog bowls, dog-proofed, flea preventatives, heartworm protection, leashes, older dog, pee pad, pee pads, toys, vaccinations, veterinarianPosted in
