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READY TO BE A PET PARENT TO A NEW PUPP?
 You're standing in the pet store feeling like you're on a leash... for the third time this week. There are cages full of puppies, wiggling and jumping past one another, trying to get your attention. They've stolen your heart completely and all you can think is that you just have to buy that puppy on the left... no, maybe that other puppy with the scruffy coat... today!
There is no doubt that puppies make cute and cuddly pets. Actually you'd like to buy all the puppies if you could. You run through the facts you know about puppy ownership that convince you why this is not just an emotional or silly spur of the moment decision. You begin the list... being around puppies helps to lower your blood pressure. Puppies and dogs (most pets actually) have a calming affect on us and make us smile and laugh. Point two; dog walking provides great exercise... both for the puppy, dog and owner. No more convincing is needed... right?
Perhaps you've had a pet dog before and know what being a pet parent is all about. You understand that a lot of time, energy, patience and financing is required to properly care for a pet...
If you're new to pet ownership, well, you may be in for a bit of a shock. You might want to really want to think about this puppy purchase again... again and again. Getting a new pet puppy may be an exciting idea but the reality of pet ownership could be a whole new experience that you hadn't considered. There is lots to think about if you truly want to make a good decision for yourself and your prospective new pet.
Here are some important questions to ask yourself before jumping to buy that darling puppy in the pet store...
1. Do I have the time and energy to properly train, exercise and feed a dog?
Some breeds of dogs need a lot of training and exercise - so do your research! You'll want your pet to be well behaved and so time will be required to properly acclimatize it to your living space and train it to fit in with your habits and lifestyle.
You also need to think about scheduling your time around always being home on time every day to feed your puppy. The freedom you now enjoy to come and go as you like will be changed dramatically when you have to be home for the dog.
2. What kind of dog will suit my lifestyle?
Both pet owner and pet need to be happy in the space they share or the relationship just won't work. Puppies and dogs are usually quite good at adapting to whatever space they are given but you may need to make some major adjustments in your living space to provide for the puppy or dog. You'll need to think about sleeping quarters, a play area, and a feeding area for your new pet.
Whether the puppy you are considering is a lap dog or a working dog, be sure that the breed of dog you consider has the temperament to suit your own. If you have a calm and easy-going personality, a high-energy high-maintenance dog may not be a good match... unless you are looking for a more active lifestyle!
Oh yes, and don't forget that small puppies can grow into very large dogs. Make sure you know how large the dog will eventually grow, so that it will physically fit into your living space comfortably.
3. Will my budget allow me to keep a dog and care for it properly?
A new owner must seriously consider the financial obligation of owning a pet. It is a mistake to think that the $800.00 or more to purchase your puppy is your main expense. You can expect to pay about $1,100 per year to feed and provide basic care for a medium sized, mixed breed, spayed female dog. Beyond this, pet care costs could also include dog training classes, vet bills, pet grooming, toys and accessories, pet licenses, pet sitting or doggie day care and pet insurance. A slush fund for unexpected expenses is also a good idea.
4. Will I really have the time to train the puppy properly
Puppies need to be trained properly if you are both to enjoy living together. They require constant supervision, even as they grow older and settle into their surroundings. They also need love and affection to live a healthy and happy life. In turn they will give you unconditional love and be a faithful companion for life. But this all takes a great deal of time, patience and effort on the part of the pet owner. Pet parenting is not simple, but it does have many rewards.
No matter how many times you visit that pet store and get lost in puppy love, pet ownership is a real responsibility and a life-long commitment. So take lots of time to really understand all aspects of pet ownership. Talk with other dog owners, do your own research, and even speak to a pet professional ... it will be time well spent. And, if you want to have a first-hand experience, offer to pet sit for a friend or neighbor. This will help you to quickly learn about some of the effort required to be a pet owner.
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Source Info:
Author: Becca Ross - Freelance Contributer
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