Say no to Fido

Not a good time for a dog!
(Craigslist)

As the holidays are upon us, it is very important that I get this message out!

PLEASE DO NOT purchase a Puppy for anyone as a gift for Christmas! It is at this time of year that Puppies and kittens are purchased for gifts, and by February, more than half of those newly aquired animals are being 'rehomed.'

Bringing a puppy into your home is a HUGE undertaking, and a big responsibility. It is a committment that should be taken VERY seriously, and will consume much time, money and effort for the next 10-17 years!

Do NOT assume that your kids will 'help' with the puppy. They won't. They may like to play with it, but cannot give a dog the 45 minutes of walking a DAY that is required for good health!

Letting your dog outside into the yard is NOT a substitute for a good daily wallk. Your dog will need a walk in the rain, snow, or those hot sweltering days. Dogs NEED excercise.

Remember that if your dog is NOT properly exercised, he may become destructive, and exhibit signs of separation anxiety.

Remember that Vet bills are REAL, and vet care is a MUST, not an OPTION!

Please keep in mind that a puppy needs supervision and company for most of the day, until it is at least 4 months old.

Dog food is NOT cheap, and depending on the size of your dog, can run from $40-100+ per month. Heartworm and flea meds are imperative, and will cost you another $10 a month.

When you and your family want to go on a vacation, or even a weekend away, you will need to procure doggie-care for your dog, and this can cost a good deal of money! From $225 a week at a doggie day care facility!

Depending on the breed, your grooming costs can run $40 a month! Even if you have a 'low maintenance' dog, you will still need ears cleaned, and nails trimmed!

And don't forget that puppies have accidents on the carpet, and you may need to get a steam cleaning done! Dogs also shed, so get the right kind of dog for your home!

MAKE SURE NO ONE IS ALLERGIC TO DOGS - BEFORE YOU GET A DOG!!! NOT AFTER YOU GET IT!!!!