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Honesty Time<\/h2>\n\n\n\nFuture focus<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
OK, so a puppy fits right in just now, but what about in 5, 10, or even 15 years\u2019 time? Ask yourself where is your life heading and can your dog follow. Perhaps you have an ambition to go back to college or travel abroad \u2013 in which case how does a dog fit in to that plan?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cost<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The initial purchase price of the puppy is just the beginning of a big \u2018hole in your pocket\u2019. Work out for yourself if you can afford their upkeep and write down the anticipated costs. Consider monthly outgoings such as food, deworming, and parasite treatments, treats, toys and yearly costs such as vet checks, and not forgetting those one-offs such as desexing and a microchip. You must also budget for the unexpected such as accidents or ill health, so add on a monthly pet insurance premium. Finally, if your work hours are long or changed can you afford the services of pet day care or a dog walker?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The RSPCA found that the average dog owner spends about $1,600 per year on their dog.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now, is a dog still a financially realistic proposition?<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Imagine your daily routine and then fit in an extra two hours a day for dog walking, play, grooming, feeding, and the undivided attention they need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n How does this work out in the long term?<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Sit on the floor and swing your arm from side to side like a Labrador\u2019s tail. Are your antique china ornaments crashing to the ground or is yours a dog friendly room? How would you feel about sharing your space with a dog with muddy paws and occasional urinary accident?<\/p>\n\n\n\n Still an appealing prospect?<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n When you get in from a long hard day at work, what do you most want to do? If the answer is anything other than: Devote your dwindling energy to making a fuss of a lively dog, heading out for a walk or visiting the local park to play fetch, then don\u2019t consider getting a dog.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Your decision to get a puppy affects other people (and pets!) in your life, so consider their feelings about a canine bombshell dropping in their midst.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Well done if you are honest and recognise that you have a dog-shaped heart, but a long-term commitment isn\u2019t right just now. Don\u2019t despair. There are ways to satisfy your longing for canine companionship by helping others.<\/p>\n\n\n\nTime<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Space<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Energy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Significant others<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Satisfy Both Head and Heart<\/h3>\n\n\n\n