Everyone knows the saying ‘a dog is for life, not just for Christmas’, but never has its meaning been more true than this past year. Figures assembled and released at the beginning of January by the Dogs Trust – the country’s largest dog welfare charity – revealed that the number of stray dogs in Britain reached an 11 year high in 2012. Shockingly, more than 126,176 dogs were picked up by local rescue authorities over the past year, which equates to a staggering 345 stray dogs being found every day!
Bringing a dog into your home is a massive commitment and these statistics prove just how important it is to thoroughly consider buying a dog or puppy before doing so. A wrong choice or impulse buy can cause a catalogue of unpleasant events – for both the dog and its future and also your emotional well-being.
The experts down at Green Lane Farm are passionate about animal welfare and, as such, aim to help prevent the abandonment and cruel treatment of animals as much as possible. So, in light of this research they have compiled a handy guide detailing the top things you should think about before deciding to buy a dog…
What is your lifestyle like?
People often get a dog because they have fond memories of their childhood pet or because they want to recreate the relationship between a dog and a person they have seen in films, celebrity news stories or first-hand through friends or family members.
However, it is important to remember that your lifestyle may not be the same as those you are trying to imitate, and definitely won’t be the same as when you were 5 years old, meaning the life you can offer a dog and the relationship you can achieve with it will be entirely different. So even though Lassie may have inspired you to buy a Collie, it is highly doubtful your new puppy will be saving you from burning buildings or runaway trains week after week!
Have you considered different breeds?
There are a wealth of dog breeds available and it is crucial you thoroughly consider the traits and needs of various ones before you buy a dog. Professionals recommend making a list of the pros and cons of each breed you are considering and then making a balanced decision based upon the outcome.
You should think about things such as: size, nature, reliability with children or other animals, activity needs and health risks.
How do you feel about moulting?
Some people enjoy taking time to properly groom and bathe their dog regularly. However, others simply do not have the time so it is important to consider how much time you are willing to commit to grooming your dog.
Another important factor is how much they moult. Getting covered in dog hair and having to undertake regular vacuuming can be a particular bug bear to some people, so how much the breed is likely to moult is a key consideration.
How much time can you dedicate to the dog?
If you work 12 hours a day and live on your own, buying a dog might not be a particularly good idea. Similarly, if your family are constantly coming and going and running on different, and hectic, schedules you need to consider whether you can manage the responsibility and demands of owning a dog.
It is important to take a proper look at your schedule and lifestyle and realistically consider how much time you can dedicate to your new dog. A dog requires a significant time commitment and if you can’t promise this, it’s probably best not getting one at all.
Is your home safe and ‘dog proof’?
Like before having a baby, proofing your home to ensure a safe environment is crucial if you are getting a dog. This includes providing a fully-fenced garden to prevent your beloved dog from escaping whilst you’re not looking!
What is your living space like?
When choosing a dog, you must think about how they will be able to live in your environment. For example, where will they sleep, go to toilet, play and run around? If you live in a one bedroom apartment with no garden, buying a dog might not be the best idea – especially a large one or one which requires lots of exercise.
Similarly, if your home is big enough to dedicate a whole room or area to the dog it is important to remember that they need to spend time with you and your family for at least part of the day as they need time to bond to become part of the family. Segregating them in the ‘dog room’ for most of the day isn’t fair and will not benefit their well-being.
Have you thought about average lifespan?
When you buy a dog you are making a commitment for, usually, at least the next decade of your life. Whilst buying a dog may seem like a great idea now, it is important to think about how it may affect your life over the next 10 or 15 years.
Dogs live about 12 years on average and you must not forget that this means you will be responsible, and have them around for, that many years!
Do you know a reputable kennel company?
Nobody expects you to buy a dog and never go on holiday again. However, it is important that you think about who is going to take care of your dog when you do. It is important to research reputable, respected boarding kennels in your local area and find one that you can trust to take care of your beloved pet.
The experts at Green Lane Farm are one such company and, based in Chessington, are ideally placed to serve customers throughout the Surrey and London areas. Their comprehensive kennel and cattery service means they take care of a large range of animals, including dogs, cats and small pets, and are proud of the friendly, family atmosphere they have created to ensure their environment is your dog’s home away from home.
Simply get in touch with the professionals down at Green Lane Farm today for more information!
