What It Takes To Properly Own And Care For A Dog.

source: www.puppymill.com

UNLESS YOU CAN ANSWER "YES" TO THE ENTIRE LIST BELOW, DON'T GET A DOG BECAUSE THIS IS WHAT OWNING ONE TAKES:


1. I will have my dog spayed or neutered.
2. I will spend a minimum of 1 hr. a day exercising my dog.
3. I will spend 30 minutes daily training my dog in basic commands, socialization around people and other dogs and manners around people.
4. I will 30 minutes playing with him.
5. I will brush him daily and brush his teeth at least several times a week.
6. I will remember to give my dog heartworm medicine monthly and protect him against fleas, ticks and mosquitoes with one of the vet-recommended products for spring, summer and fall.
7. I will take him to the vet yearly for shots and more often if he shows any health problems.
8. I will keep my dog safe, healthy, well-groomed and happy.
9. I will keep my dog for life.

1. I DO have the time to feed, train, love and exercise my dog.
2. I DO have the money for annual vet checks and any other medical problems that might occur; food; toys; grooming; and all other pet supplies
3. I DO NOT have -- nor does anyone in my household -- any allergies to dogs.
4. I DO NOT have any restrictions on dog size where I live.
5. I DO have the money to fence in my yard.
6. I DO have a family member, friend or trusted pet sitter to give proper care to my dog if/when I go on vacation.
7. I DO have someone to take my dog out and feed him should I temporarily need to work longer hours that keep me away from home.
8. I DO NOT have any physical disabilities or limitations that will impede my ability to take good care of a dog for its entire life.
9. I DO NOT plan to use ANY excuse for getting rid of my dog: moving, allergies, having a baby, changing jobs, extended work hours, no time, dog is too big or has "behavioral problems," other pets or family members don't get along with it, etc.

Insure that your dog lives on and is well cared for after your death.