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FU- honest opinions about experiences with dogs
Hi everyone,
Thank you so much for all your honest advice about my post yesterday about getting a dog for the first time. You definitely gave me things to think about! To be honest, I just keep getting the gut feeling that I really shouldn't get a dog. I like the idea of a dog, having it be a family member, going on walks, playing in the backyard, developing a relationship- but I don't know if I'm willing to make the sacrifices required for it in terms of schedule and flexibility. However, I don't know if that's because I've never had a pet with which to really form a bond.
H and I talked about it yesterday and we came up with a plan. We will obviously continue to think about it, but take care of practical concerns first- fix the fence in our yard, increase our emergency fund to cover vet bills. Then, if we decide we want to go forward with it and are willing to take on the responsibility, we will look into adopting this summer (one! Just one! I promise!). That will give us plenty of daylight after we get home from work to train, play, and get to know each other. There are always plenty of dogs who need to be rescued and if we're ready, we'll be happy to provide a home. If we decide not to adopt, while not the same, I will still enjoy playing with my friends' dogs so that I can get some puppy love:)
Thanks again for your advice yesterday. I will keep you all posted. Happy Wednesday!
Re: FU- honest opinions about experiences with dogs
Have you thought about fostering first before adopting?
I think that sounds like a great plan. Pets are a lifetime commitment, so you want to be absolutely sure
That said, I think most first time dog owners who have done their research find that after an initial adjustment period, the lifestyle changes are pretty easily incorporated into their daily routine. I'm sure there are exceptions, but that has been my experience.
Something else to think about - you can also spend time with animals by volunteering for your local shelters and rescues. You could even try fostering to see how a dog fits in to your household - you might just fall in love and foster fail (aka keep the dog), but if you don't, you will have still saved a life and helped find the perfect family to adopt him.
I like this idea! We have a rescue right down the road, and spending time with a variety of dogs will give me a better idea of what I'm looking for in terms of personality (as well as get used to picking up poop!).
*TTC since 10/11*
BFP: 9/30/12, EDD: 6/15/13
*~*Our miracle arrived on 6/13/13*~*
I love how much thought you have put into this!
I really wanted a dog when we started fostering. I wanted to rush home and walk her and play with her and take her to obedience school. We have had a lot of fun together- yeah, there are sacrifices. It's good you are thinking things through.
Oftentimes, people think with their heart, rush into getting a pet, then realize their mistakes later. You are very wise.
I also like the shelter idea. I think that will be a great way to help with your decision. Good luck & keep us posted.
It sounds like you will be a good pet owner when you're ready to take the plunge! Thinking things through is a step that many people miss when choosing to get a pet.
And it sounds great that there is a place for you to volunteer close by! That should really help you decide if you are ready or not! Have fun!
and good idea on beefing up the e-fund. we were at the vet almost every month the first year we had dogs. and while we were there frequently..we were rather lucky in that most visits were relatively inexpensive (~$100). more than one poster here has spent well over $5k on their dog.
Have you seen my monkey?