There is no denying that a great many oldsters do live alone and
may pass several days without seeing anyone, especially during the
winter. The children are grown and have lives of their own to get on
with and your friends are less mobile too. Television is your constant
companion, and you can talk to it, but it is at best a one way
conversation.
Why not talk to a dog instead? Now I know what you
are thinking - too much work! But honestly, just between us, couldn't
you use something to do? I thought as much.
A dog is a constant,
loyal companion who will never argue about which TV show to watch and
will ask for nothing more than food and a walk. A dog always has
something to do and his favorite thing to do is whatever you are doing
now. Dogs just want to be included - they love doing laundry and cooking
dinner. They are not too keen on vacuuming; but that's OK, I bet you
aren't either!
So I suppose the real question is not "should" you
get a dog; but rather what kind of dog "should" you get? There is no
wrong answer to this, but I suggest you give it some careful thought and
seriously consider not getting a puppy unless you really like potty
training.
- The many other considerations include:
- What is the state of your own health and where do you live?
- Do you have any allergies?
- Would you benefit from a large dog that needed two walks a day?
- Would a small dog that was paper trained be a more realistic option?
- Would you like a high energy clown or a cuddly couch potato?
- What sort of physical characteristics would you like?
- Would you be happy with a 15 pound mutt in good health?
- Would you prefer a registered breed?
- Can you afford a dog that requires professional grooming?
- Do you have the time and the patience to do some basic dog training?
Sorting this out might take a while but it will give you
something to do. Descriptions of most breeds are listed in Wikipedia.com
and it is a good idea to read about the character traits of various
breeds even if you intend to adopt a mixed breed so that you can figure
out what sort of temperament would suit you best.
Once you have an
idea what sort of dog you would like you can begin your search for a
companion. You have two obvious choices - the local animal shelter or
searching online. Dogs in animal shelters are in urgent need of
alternate accommodation so at least go to see what is available. Many
shelters will take your name and number and call you if a dog of your
preference becomes available.
Searching online is daunting but
worth the effort. There are so many dogs available for re-homing that
choosing is almost a daunting task. Take your time and don't let this
put you off - ask lots of questions (especially about health and why the
dog needs a new home) and if feasible go and see the dog in person
before making a commitment.
Remember you are searching for a
friend for life not a prize-winning show dog - character counts! If it
is not love at first sight, it is OK to go home and think it over for a
day or so. The perfect dog for you is out there waiting patiently to
share a life with you.a
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