Doggone Ready - So you want a dog

You, your child, your partner or anyone on the planet, decides they want a dog. They cannot continue their existence without having one. The question is not whether they can buy one. The query here is whether they are ready for one. Before you go out to buy a single doggy necessity, you need to consider the following questions. Be truthful in answering them. Remember, pet ownership is not ever to be taken lightly. You are undertaking a task in which the life of another living being is in your hands.

1. Why are you so eager to get a dog? Do you genuinely love animals? Do you want one because so-and-so has one? Is it a status thing? Do you think it will make your cool or more interesting? Do your kids want one? Is it part of the "family image?" Do you really know why? If you are not getting a dog for the right reason, do not get one. A pet is a responsibility. He or she is a living being who deserves to be a part of your life, not an afterthought.

2. Are you ready to commit yourself to dog training? If you are unable to spend time training your dog in the basics of life, you are not ready for a dog.

3. Time. How much time do your have to spare? Whether you get a puppy or an older dog, you need to spend time with him or her. This is part of the dog-human contract.

4. Can you promise to be kind and even tempered? Will you try not to yell, even when the little charmer has just chewed your favorite gizmo or stained your white carpet?

5. Can you handle it if sweetums drools on your Sunday-go-to-meeting clothes? What about finding dog hair all over your favorite dress, jeans, etc., just before you are heading out?

6. Are you prepared to bathe your dog, clean up after him or her, groom and take the pet to the vet? These are the very basics. Sure, you can arrange to have someone else do it professionally. Still, you have to commit yourself to the trip, the money and the time.

7. Can you teach the dog what he or she needs to know? Can you learn from him or her what you are doing wrong? Are you ready to research the effective methods in training? Can you admit the way you chose is wrong and move on to a better or more effective one?

8. Will you always consider your dog's safety? Can you promise to never place him or her in harm's way?

9. Are you ready to commit yourself to a task that will last their lifetime?

10. Are you ready to be responsible for the life and well-being of another living being?

11. Can you be responsible?

If you cannot answer yes to these questions, you are not ready to be a dog owner. Those who are lucky enough to have accepted the challenge of dog ownership understand what is involved. It is not an easy task. It is also never a thankless job. When and if you decide you are ready for a dog, you will find it hardy work. You will find it challenging. You will discover how frustrating another animal can be. You may want to give up several hundred times. You may even cry in frustration. Yet, in the end, your dog is worth it. Faint heart never won the love and respect of fair puppy.

Information written by Meghan Stern of ohmydogsupplies.com, search for current discounts on donut dog beds online.

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