1.  Do not get a dog as an impulsive buy. Impulse buying ofter leads to regrets,  great stress and re-thinking the  whole idea. Dogs bought on  impulse are often returned to the person you got the dog from, given to another  family member or turned in to a shelter.

2. Shop around before getting a dog.  Where are you getting the dog from? Will you get it from a professional breeder, the SPCA or a home breeder? if you decide on a professional breeder do a little research to find a good breeder. A pet store is not always a good choice because often they get their dogs from puppy mills. Do not buy puppies from a puppy mill as they often breed inferior quality dogs. You may unknowingly get a puppy that has serious hereditary defects costing you lots of money to correct. Many times the puppies end  up looking  nothing like the dog you wanted once they start to grow. Physical defects can become more obvious as the dog grows. By that time your are deeply in love with the dog.

3. The SPCA is often a great place to get a puppy or older dog. They check the puppy dog for any obvious signs of illness. They also examine the dogs temperament. Is the dog food aggressive? Is it fearful of men or children?

4. Consider your lifestyle.  Is your home ready for a puppy? Just like toddlers they put strange things in their mouth. Do you work long hours.? Do you spend a great deal of time out with friends?  Are you working more than one job? Do you live in a high rise with no elevator and the last thing you want to do is go back down those stairs after work and especially not in the winter time.

5. What is the environment your dog will live in. Are you in a very small apartment or house yet still want a large dog. How many people are in the home? Will the dog have a place of quiet and comfort? Is there room in your house?  Apartment dwellers don't sneak a dog in if the landlord doesn't  allow them. Sooner or later the management will find out. You may be evicted from your apartment or in order to stay you will have to give up a dog you've fallen in love with.

   What is the age of your children? Toddlers, two and three year olds love to put things up their noses and ears . They will do the same thing to the dog. Teenagers may be too busy with school and after school activities. Will they take on the job of feeding, watering and walking the dog?

6. Why do you want a pet? Is it a replacement for a dog you lost? Evaluate whats going on in your life. Why do you feel ready for a dog ? Have you thought about each family members responsibilities for caring for the dog. For yourself are you ready too take on this responsibility?

7. Is it the right time to get a pet.    Are you in the middle of divorce or fighting to keep your children? That's not the time to get a dog. Are you working late on a new project? Are you working 18 hours a day at home and work?

8. How long do you expect the dog to live? Consider the life expectancy of  the dog you choose.  Most dogs can live up to 10-12 years. Some smaller breeds live 15-17 years. Are you prepared for that? In fourteen years you life has probably changed does your dog fit in your long term plans? Who will take on the responsibilities of caring for your dog should you become suddenly ill or pass away?

9. Can you meet the pets needs. Dogs need a dog bed, a warm home, food and affection. They need to be walked. They need training. Can you afford to pay a dog trainer, or go to training classes? Some dogs need weekly brushing. They need their teeth brushed. Do you have the time for these things?

10. There is a cost to having a dog. There is a cost of time. The cost of money. Dogs may suddenly become seriously ill can you afford to pay the bill? Can you pay for routine vet visits? Can you pay for the vaccinations?  Can you pay for teeth cleaning?  Can you pay for flea and tick medications? Can you afford dog food for a very large dog? Can your pocketbook stand to pay for an accident if  your dog is injured? 

Fran Gratton

                                                                                             Copyright 2008

        Fran Gratton  RubMyBellyToo.com  POB 107  116 Gay Street Phoenixville, PA 19460  610-933-5810  888-558-3837

                                                          I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.   Phillipians 4:13