FRIENDS AZ
Westie & Friends AZ Rescue
Sharon@Westieandfriendsazrescue.org
Ask yourself the following questions, and answer them honestly. Evaluate your current life situation.
1. Is your home large enough to comfortably house a dog? Dogs should never be expected to live their lives confined to one small area, such as a single room or a crate.
2.Do you have enough free time to provide a dog with the attention he needs? More than eight hours alone is not advisable for most dogs.
3. Will you be willing and able to provide a dog with ample exercise every day? Most dogs need at least one hour of exercise each day.
4.Will other pets and members of the family be comfortable with having a dog? Allergies, phobias and dislikes of dogs, and nervous or ill pets are things to consider before adopting a dog.
5. Are you willing to provide a home, medical care, and appropriate nutrition for the duration of a dog's life? A dog is not disposable; he is a lifelong commitment.
6. Are you able to financially afford annual checkups, vaccines, heartworm and flea prevention, emergency room visits, quality dog food, and any other needed pet supplies. A puppy's care costs about $640 to $1,125 in his first year. Routine maintenance of an adult dog costs about $440-$775 per year.
7. Are you willing to handle the normal frustrations that come with having a dog (e.g. barking, house-training, accidents in the home, chewing, shedding, etc.)? No dog is perfect.
8. Are you willing to spend time on a consistent basis helping your dog to be obedient, socialized, and well-mannered? A polite dog will be more enjoyable and easier to handle in public.
Being a pet parent can be one of life's greatest joys. I hope this helps you. Sharon