Read through the questions below. Please consider each one carefully. Many dogs have been let down by people who rush into homing them without giving it due thought and consideration. Don’t let your heart rule your head – be realistic about your circumstances and what you can offer a dog.
Ask yourself these questions…
- Are you, and all those who live with you, committed to spend 15+ years providing health care, food, grooming, training and attention to a dog?
- Are you prepared for the expense and time commitment?
- Will you be happy to walk a dog, twice a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year? In rain, hail or shine for at least 20 minutes at a time and maybe more depending on the size / breed of the dog.
- If you are looking for a pup, do you have the time and patience to socialise and train your pup with other dogs and people, to ensure he grows up to be a healthy, happy, well adjusted dog?
- If you are looking for an adult dog are you prepared to work on the basic training that the dog may need?
- Are there lifestyle-altering events that could occur in your foreseeable future – a baby, caring for an elderly family member, a house move, job uncertainty or promotion, etc? How would you deal with these changes as well as caring for a dog?
- Are you house-proud? How well would you cope with dog hairs and mucky paw prints around the house?
- Are you physically able to care for a dog and his needs? Will you be able to exercise the dog adequately? Please make sure the dog you adopt is the appropriate age and size for your circumstances, be realistic.
- Is your garden secure? Is there an area for your dog to go to the toilet?
- Do you travel frequently? Can the dog come with you? If not, will it be difficult for you to find quality care for your dog when you are away? How much does boarding cost on a daily basis and how much notice do they need to take your dog?
- Will your dog be alone for long periods of time, on certain days, at weekends or evenings? Can you arrange for the dog to be walked, given fresh water, medication, and playtime, as necessary, during the day?
- Will you be prepared to spend time with your dog immediately upon arrival home or will you be committed to cooking dinner for the family, etc.?
Or, will you become angered and frustrated by behavioural issues that may arise due to the fact that your dog is alone for long periods of time or is ignored due to other commitments? i.e., relieves himself indoors; chews up a blanket, your shoes, your sofa; barks incessantly, causing your neighbours to become angry or, perhaps, even call the dog warden on you; etc. If behavioural problems are likely to result in you deciding that you no longer want your dog, please reconsider any plans to adopt a dog.