DOG DAYS
Pick of the Litter
written by Charity Mainville
You ’ ve been thinking about getting a dog . How can you not ? Dogs provide unconditional love . They can lift your spirits , calm your stress , and give you a purpose to live . In Seattle , it ’ s nearly impossible not to run into an adorable dog . Eventually , you come across the perfect one and decide you want one just like it . If you go back and forth on your decision , then wait . You should be 100 percent sure . Before you make a life-changing decision , you need to ask the right questions and choose a breed that is right for you .
TIME CHECK Dogs are pack animals . Once you take a dog in , they look to you as part of their pack and are solely dependent on you . They rely on you for love and attention , daily walks , food , grooming , and more . They can ’ t do it on their own . As a puppy , it will need to be trained and housebroken so expect getting up throughout the night unless you get an older dog already trained . It shouldn ’ t be left for long hours , especially in the beginning . Dogs can experience separation anxiety if left too long , which can cause uncontrollable barking , crying , and destruction of property . If you have a job that demands long hours , travel on a regular basis , or like to spend your nights out , a dog isn ’ t for you .
CASH FLOW Dogs are not cheap . One can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars . Dogs need food , shelter , routine health checks , grooming , and toys for stimulation . Not including the cost of getting the dog , the average amount spent on a dog in its first year can be from $ 500 to $ 1,000 and $ 300 plus each year after . Costs can rise with emergency vet visits or injuries that can result in surgery . Pet insurance is an option , which can cost $ 10 up to $ 80 per month .
DOG SPOTS Each year millions of dogs are rescued , and all of them need a loving home . By adopting a dog , you will be giving it a second chance at life . A mutt has the characteristics of each of its breed DNA so inform yourself about its history , health , and behavior . Rescue shelters should tell you if the dog is good around other animals , children , or has any emotional issues . Same goes for “ designer dogs .” These are purposely two mixed breeds . Technically mutts , these dogs tend to be extremely expensive . Creating miniature breeds are dangerous to a dog ’ s health , and mixing the breeds my cause temperament issues . If you are looking for a purebred , do your research on breeders . Is the dog AKC certified ? Is there history of health problems ? Are they breeding dogs within the same family ? How often and how many dogs does the breeder have ? There are Washington state laws that control dog breeding . If you witness negligence or abuse , make sure you report it . Dogs are not allowed to be purchased or rescued until it is at least 8 weeks old . It should have its first set of shots , dewormed and be on a heartworm prevention . Rescue dogs will come spayed or neutered because most are quieter and less aggressive . You should do the same to yours .
16 villemagazine . com