kennynah wrote:i have been comtemplating keeping a pet dog, for over 30 years now...first my mother was against the idea....then now, my wife is not so hot about pets in the house ....
but anyways, appreciate anyone with pet dogs, share some experiences here...
for example... why do dogs smell constantly? cannot tahan that man...
I wonder if some dogs smell bad due to their diet or maybe their constant licking of their fur causes dampness and hence later smells???
i have my mini schnauzer for more than 9 yrs (he is my first dog), here is what i have learnt/things for u to consider before getting one.
1. Does the rest of yr family likes dogs?? cos if they do not like dogs it will be a challenge for them to live in the same house.
2. Anyone at home is allergic to dogs?? Are you considering having kids later in life?? I know of quite a few ppl who have to give up their dogs cos later when they have kids, they realised that the kids are allergic to them. Ideally have kids first and make sure they have no such allergies, then get the dog.
3. Financial costs eg. vet fees (annual jab and when the dog falls sick), grooming fees, health supplements, training courses, food, etc. My dog requires grooming every 2 mths and costs abt $50. He has skin problems since 4 yrs ago and require special diet/food that can only be bought at the vet, also to ease his discomfort he needs a jab every 3-4 mths and medication (which costs abt $80-$100 each visit). I know someone who has a dog that has a terminal illness, the dog went for surgery and was on 3 mths medication -- cost more than $2000, the dog died soon after due to the illness.
4. Do u have someone at home to watch/care for the dog?? Dogs are social animals, and if everyone at home work long hrs, the dog will not like the idea of being alone for long period and may likely have behavioural problems.
5. Who will care for the dog when u and yr family are going on a vacation?? I know there are pet hotels, but i dont quite like the idea of leaving them there, i would prefer to leave the dog w. a family member or a reliable friend.
6. Do u have time to bathe the dog weekly, walk him (ideally daily), groom him??
If after considering all these factors and u are convinced that u can care for a dog, then the next thing to do is to read up first on the breed of dog that u are keen on to see if its personality and breed suits yr lifestyle.
Having a dog is a 10-15 yrs (on avg) commitment. Caring for a dog needs lots of love, attention and $$$ (esp when they fall sick). My dog (Pepper) is the best gift i have received fm my husband and I agree that it will be devastating when eventually the dog dies. However, having the dog gives me lots of joy and has made me a less self-absorbed person. I have also learnt to be more caring and kind (esp towards animals in general).
