PetStyle

Not every dog/owner relationship is a match made in heaven. Each year, hundreds of thousands of perfectly healthy dogs are dropped off at North American animal shelters by their owners or abandoned on the streets.

The following list should remind you that owning a dog is a lifetime responsibility, and that an impulsive decision to buy a dog is most often a big mistake.

1. He's too big. Too big for what? Size is something everyone should think about before they get a puppy. Like it or not, they all grow up to be dogs.

2. He sheds too much. Excessive shedding can easily be controlled with regular grooming and by feeding a good quality dog food. If this doesn't help, talk to your veterinarian, there could be a medical problem.

3. The kids won't take care of it. Although children can assist with the task of caring for the family pet, it should NEVER be their ultimate responsibility. Children are, after all, just children. Try making a "job charts" and assigning certain dog care tasks to all family members on a rotating basis. Don't forget to include your name on the list!

4. He barks too much. He's probably bored and lonely. Try giving him more attention, and ask an obedience trainer how you can curb this behavior.

5. She keeps running away. Lock your gates and keep her on a leash. Never leave her unattended in the yard. Get her spayed and see #4.

6. He's too difficult to control. Book spay/neuter surgery immediately and see #4.

7. He was a gift. That's a real shame. A pet is for life, not just for Christmas, Easter or birthdays. Can't you find room in your heart and home to keep him?

Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, things just don't work out. Please discuss options with your breeder, a dog trainer and/or veterinarian before giving up on your pet.

Article submitted by: © Terri Perrin.