“Man’s or Woman’s Best Friend”. At a time when true friends have proven to be more valuable than ever, it seems getting a dog is something a good number of people and families do. Long-time dog lovers seem to agree that dogs can bring true happiness to unbearable situations. The saying, “if you want a friend, get a dog” has been around for years, even in the movies. “Dog benefits” range from personal joy to family togetherness…with a good deal of responsibility mixed in.
While a dog can turn out to become a true best friend, the “getting a dog” decision is a BIG one and not to be taken lightly. Considerations are several:
- Dog owner responsibility, ongoing learning and routine
- Time commitment – training and care, over the dog’s life span
- Financial – the costs of acquiring, owning and taking care of a dog are not small and it is wise to consider the budgetary aspects
- Potential life-changing joy… and/or heartache (describes most of life’s endeavors).
The tempting part is that most dog owners say their dog – or dogs – changed their lives amazingly for the better.
The fun part can be deciding what kind of dog to get! Also, whether to go with a rescue provider or quality breeder. One difficult part can be answering the question: “How would a dog fit into mine or my family’s lifestyle?”
It could be possible as the old Irish saying goes, “to leave an empty chair at the table because…there is always room to welcome one more”. A dog can fast become a dear friend and family member “at the table” with everyone grateful for the mutual acceptance.
Of course, there are those who fail miserably at dog ownership or fall on hard times with the dog. This sadder part is why careful, thoughtful consideration must be given to all aspects of acquiring a dog or any pet. It comes down to timing, sacrifice and the degree of desire for more in a person’s or family’s life – with eyes wide open.
In these “dog days of summer” there might be time to mull it over – while enjoying another benefit: walking the dog! Walking is a surprisingly wonderful physical, mental and emotional outlet.
There still seems to be a dog in my future. Enjoy the dog days of late summer.