So, you love dogs, and you know that adopting is better than buying a new one. You’ve probably got the perfect image in your mind of how it will look and what a significant impact it will have on your family’s dynamic.
However, even though you may have convinced yourself that it will play out perfectly, it’s vital that you have a realistic idea of all that it will require of you. When you add a dog into your life, it’s not a temporary toy. A dog is a new family member and a big commitment.
Therefore, if you’re thinking about welcoming a new dog into your house, make sure that you consider the following things first.
The Dog’s History
Not all rescued dogs have the best history. They may have been victims of abuse or certain traits that won’t go well with your family’s dynamic. If you have younger children, it’s especially important to ensure that the dog and child will fit well together. Getting bitten by a dog can be a serious injury, and even deadly.
It’s not fair to your child to put it in a potentially dangerous situation, nor is it fair to a dog who may have special requirements. While it may not be possible to know the entire history of a dog, the shelter should have a general idea of what kind of temperament they have. You should use your best judgment deciding how well the dog will fit into your family.
Costs
A lot of people don’t realize how much dogs cost over time. Beyond their initial chipping and any vaccinations they require, they’ll need regular care and materials.
Dogs require vet visits, high-quality food, grooming tools, and toys. Is several thousand dollars a year something you can afford?
Time Commitment
Dogs are a lot less independent than cats. They require hands-on attention and regular walks. If they aren’t house-trained yet, they’ll also require a lot of visits outside for a pee or poop. Until they learn how to hold it in a little longer, you may find yourself having to take them out at as many as six times a day. Do you have that kind of time on your hands to care of their needs?
Be Honest With Yourself About Your Schedule First
Even though you may know a lot of friends who have successful adoption stories with their beloved pooch, it’s not always so simple. It will take an enormous amount of dedication and patience to make sure that your dog acclimates to its new environment.
However, if you’ve familiarized yourself with the hard work and commitment that it takes, and you’re still feeling confident that you can do it, then go for it!