Here's the situation: I have always wanted a dog, and DH is keen as well. We have no children at the moment, although we are TTC. I am at home full time, DH works full time. We own our own home, with a sizeable secure back garden. We are both very active (running, cycling, walking) and happy to exercise a dog for several hours a day - in fact that's one of the things we'd look forward to.
We are seriously looking at applying to rehome a failed guide dog. I know this won't necessarily be successful, but want to figure out everything we need to know first. I would hate to let a dog down by sending it back, and want to be sure we have a realistic picture of what we're committing to: good and bad.
Here are the things we're apprehensive of:
-Dog plus starting a family. A part of me thinks it's the best thing to get a dog now and get it settled, trained and happy before children turn up, rather than attempting to do it with little ones in the picture. However, I don't know whether this is a good idea. If anyone has experience of this, I would love to hear it.
-If we are successful in starting a family, can we cope with a dog and (potentially) a small child too? Will the dog be unhappy about a new arrival? Will it be safe with it?
-Logistics. We are prepared to give a dog the care and time it needs, and don't have many commitments that mean spending time away. However, we do occasionally visit with family and friends. Can you take a dog with you on overnight stays? Are they happy to sleep in other houses? Or do you need to return home/arrange daycare or a dogsitter?
-Costs. These shouldn't be an issue per se, but we'd like to know roughly what we're looking at per month for food, insurance etc
And finally: the good stuff
When I write down all the cons it spooks me a bit, and all I can think for 'pros' is that . . . we'd just love to have a dog. If anyone wants to talk me into this, please do
It'd be really helpful to have any advice - thanks in advance!
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The doghouse
We are thinking of getting a dog, but have no previous experience. Can anyone chat practicalities with me?
43 replies
AdamLambsbreath · 25/08/2014 12:02
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