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So You Want A Dog
By John Falk
Paraphrasing that old Sara Lee commercial: Nobody Doesn't Like Dogs, leads sooner or later to everyone wanting one. Of course, that means you, too. So, here you are, possibly knowing little or nothing about dogs, except that you want a cute little puppy. That's generally a foregone conclusion, since all puppies are cute. Logically, you know your first step is finding a source of supply. Pet shops spring to mind. Stop right there in your tracks. Too many, if not most pet shops, obtain their stock from "puppy mills," the owners of which are unscrupulous individuals who care not for the welfare of their dogs, but only for their puppy producing abilities. Living conditions fairly scream neglect, lack of proper sanitation, cheap food, poor nutrition and lackadaisical medical assistance, if any at all, prevail. Avoiding pet shops may leave you scratching your head over where else to look. Fret not, there are several additional options. Public and private rescue shelters probably comprise the number one choice. Many are run strictly by volunteers who give unselfishly of their time to devote to caring for the dogs and puppies awaiting (hopefully) for adoption into their forever homes.
There's usually a wide variety of choices in the large and medium size shelters. Most of the pooches are mixed breeds of "guess what I am" parentage. They might be strays or owner surrendered dogs, some having issues requiring special understanding and patience by adopters. Others, however, come with no physical or emotional problems at all and would make fine lifetime companions. Fees for adoption can vary from shelter to shelter, with $300 the high end norm and as little as $25 at the lowest end. Looking for a bargain, however, should never enter into consideration in picking your "right dog." As noted earlier, wanting a cute little puppy is usually the first thing everybody has in mind. This can be fostered by several misconceptions about adopting an adult dog. Some folks believe they won't be able to form a true bond with a dog they didn't raise from puppy hood. Others think that older dogs may be past the point of train ability or that they may have insurmountable issues to deal with. Poppycock! Shelter personnel will have evaluated dogs and seldom allow adoptions that couldn't possibly work out. The advantages of choosing an older dog are many. Obviously, you can see how big he is right now and avoid the guesswork involved with puppies. You'll know upfront, from the evaluation provided by the Shelter caregivers, whether a dog is fine with kids and or kitties, if he's athletic or a couch potato. and if he's a noisy barker or a quiet gentleman. There's little downside in going for an adult dog to take into your home and life. Mind you, we're not dissing puppies. We love them completely (repeat once again--all puppies are cute) but also recognize that they require a lot of attention, care and proper training to transform them into model canine citizens. Think carefully when you begin your adoption quest!
John R. Falk, aka setterman29, is the author of three books on dogs and writes about K9s on his website http://www.dogs4ever.com. Gun dogs are his primary interest, but he loves any kind of dog, mixed breeds included.
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PLEASE VISIT THE CONTRIBUTOR'S WEBSITE
dogs4ever
Practical, useful information for dog fans
www.dogs4ever.com
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 | | R Foreman recommended this intel. Sep 29, 2011 |
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Pets are 24/7 care and responsibility, John. Today's working parents should think very carefully, before they allow their children to have a pet. Many times, the pet is negelected, in order for the children to keep up with their after school sports.
Keep up the good work.
Best wishes.
Frederick
CONTRIBUTOR'S REPLY
Hi Frederick:
Thanks for the insightful comment. You'r 100 per cent correct.
John
Always remember about dog first aid. First aid for dogs, just like first aid for humans, is an effective combination of knowledge, supplies and skills, put into action for the benefit of your four-legged friend. Visit www.dog-first-aid-101.com
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