Chapter 1. Commitment and Desire
Commitment and Desire
Dog ownership is a long-term commitment because most healthy dogs
live about 10 years or more. The following is a checklist that addresses
some of the things you'll need to consider prior to getting a dog.
Think about:
- Proper food and shelter
- Annual inoculations/tests/checkups
- Neutering/spaying
- Adequate attention and safe exercise
- Care while you vacation/travel
- Known allergies of family members
- Initial and ongoing training
- Licensing
- Medical emergency costs
- Preventing your dog from wandering or becoming a nuisance to others
- A ten year commitment (or more!)
- Bathing and grooming requirements
- The dog's temperament
- Whether you really have the time, patience and money needed to
train it (and yourself)
- If you can train the particular breed (some breeds are easier
to train than others)
- Whether you can handle dog hair all over the place
- If you are allowed to own dogs where you live
- If you have suitable living conditions
- If you can afford veterinary care and food
Remember a Dog is for Life! When you get your dog, keep in mind
that you are responsible for him for his entire lifetime. That could
be for up to 16 or 17 years. Your dog needs care even when he is
old and not so healthy.
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