Dogs
Owing a dog can be very rewarding. Dog owners build great friendships and strong emotional bonds with their pets. However, choosing to get dog is a major commitment. They require love, compassion and most importantly attention. Dogs can be extremely loyal to their masters but only when cared for properly. There are also financial considerations to be made. Vaccinations, worming, grooming, operations and other vet appointments are just some of the costs that dog owners incur.
Even if you have made your mind up about getting a dog; you must decide on what type of dog is right for you. Your home situation is an important factor to consider. Do you have a big house / small house, children, other pets etc… It is important to choose a dog that suits your environment.
Below we have listed some important decisions to be made before and after getting your dog.
Dog Adoption and Dog Rehoming
Every year thousands of unwanted Puppy Litters are born. Often owners cannot afford to keep the litters of their dogs and have to give them to rescue centres. Older dogs often end up in rescue centres if their owners have passed away or can no longer keep their dog for various reasons. Older Dogs also arrive to rescue centres for more tragic reasons such as abuse or neglect. Choosing to adopt a dog from a rescue is a great gesture. Dogs in rescue centres are in need of a good home. Rescue centres are more than happy to give you a Dog for a small fee, knowing that it is going a good home. This can prove to be much less expensive than buying a Dog from a pet store or from a Dog Breeder.
Neutering your Dog
Neutering your Dog is very important in preventing the birth of unwanted litters. However, Neutering (or Spaying) your Dog has other great benefits for both the Dog and Owner. Neutering your Dog can make him or her more obedient. It can also reduce aggression in male Dogs and reduce the risk of Mammary Cancer in Bitches.
Both Male and Female Puppies should be neutered around 5 or 6 months but this can vary depending on the dog. Your local vet will be able to give your more information about this and the cost of neutering your dog. The cost of Neutering usually depends on the weight of the Dog.
Collaring and MicroChipping your Dog
Losing your Dog can be a heartbreaking experience. It can be very difficult to find your Dog when missing if the Dog has not been properly identified. In many cases it is the owner that cannot be identified. To avoid this you should consider microchipping your Dog. Microchipping your Dog involves placing a small microchip underneath the skin. The process is no more uncomfortable than getting a simple vaccine. The microchip contains details of ownership. These microchips can be scanned to provide this information. Most Vets and Dog Rescue Centres will have scanners available.
