Owning a pet can be rewarding and pleasurable! But before you jump in with both feet, review the negatives and what is expected of you. Everybody has an obligation to always encourage responsible pet ownership.

The breed of your dog is the most important choice you have. The breed will determine the size your dog will be, it's personality, and even how much you will spend on food and health expenses. We recommend reading the American Kennel Club's book:The Complete Dog Book (19th Ed Revised)

Before we continue, let's get two contrasting opinion on owning a dog,
the pessimist and the optimist. So, first the "bad news":

The Pessimist's View:
Before adopting a dog, consider carefully the commitment you are making. Dogs generally live to be 15-20 years old. It's possible your new pet could OUTLIVE YOU. Be honest with yourself. Is your life stable enough to make a long-term commitment to a pet? Animal shelters are filled with pets that were surrendered because their owners did not plan in advance.

And think about the money. On the average, the annual cost of caring for a dog is $400 MINIMUM. The costs could rise significantly if there are health problems. It's just not right to take a pet into your family for awhile, only to give it up when there is not enough money to pay for food, litter, or vet bills.

Dogs like to be active and that means having a lot of room!

Like most important changes in your life, pets deserve a thoughtfully considered decision - not an unwise, spur-of-the-moment impulse. Breaking up can be so very hard to do.

Most people own dogs and cats for companionship. However, nearly 1/5 of all pet owners at any time are dissatisfied. These people view the pet as a nuisance.

When a pet has been given to children it is enthusiastically received. But, when the pet becomes an adult and loses it's appeal, it receives little attention or affection from the family.

Many good handbooks and pamphlets are available on basic care, housebreaking, etc. Contact your local kennel club, animal shelter or veterinarian; nearly all of these groups will have free literature available.

Be sure to check this other web site if you are unsure what type of pet is best for your situation.
www.petcat.info

Remember, as a pet owner you are taking on many responsibilities.

The Optimist's View:
Owning a pet can be rewarding and pleasurable!
Pets can provide important benefits to a person's well being.
A pet will Love you.

The Summary:
Whether you decide to have a pet or not:
Everybody has an obligation to always encourage responsible pet ownership.

Before you continue to browse this site you may wish to review our pet terminology.

This is a great book for people with dogs already. Click on it for more info.

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