The holidays see a lot of dog adoptions…and the months after see a LOT of relinquishments. While giving a dog a home for the holidays is nice, he really needs a forever home, so instead of impulsively bringing home a dog with a bright red bow on him, ask yourself the following questions.
#1 – Why do You Want a Dog?
Are you tired of hearing your kids asking for a dog for Christmas and are “caving”? If so, chances are that that dog won’t be at your house for long. If the whole family is not on board, wait. It’s better for you and the dog.
#2 – Do you Have the Time?
If you are already so busy that you barely have time to eat, adding a four-legged toddler to the house may not be a good idea. You have to train, watch, groom, exercise, and clean up after them.
#3 – Do you have the Money?
It costs a lot of money to get a dog. Are you adopting because you can’t afford a purebred puppy? Well, that adopted dog is still going to add up to a lot of money between supplies, vet bills, licenses, training classes, etc.
#4 – Who will be taking care of the dog?
If you just answered, the kids, think again. Regardless of how much the kids swear they will take care of the dog every day, you are going to end up doing a lot of the work. There are things your kids can’t do, like drive the dog to the vet, and kids get bored, busy, forgetful, etc. If you don’t want to do it, don’t get a dog.
#5 – Is this a gift?
Unless you have the parents’ approval (or you are the parent), DON’T give a dog as a gift. It rarely ends well for the dog. Give the child a stuffed dog instead.
