To Add to the Family or Not?
No, no, no. Not a baby.
We've already been through that scare lately and with three little boys, we are DONE having babies.
But, that doesn't mean we don't debate other additions to our family.
I've never been a dog person. And my oldest is scared of dogs. And we don't have a fenced in yard right now. So, the idea of a dog was not one that we considered.
It was a thought for "some day."
And then we started talking about moving. Not far, but to a different house in a different neighborhood. One where we would have a fenced in yard.
And then two of the boys' uncles got dogs.
And oh, those sad little faces from my youngest two. And Hubs.
So, I started thinking okay, once we move, we can have a dog. For me to even give in to that was a huge concession.
But, somehow that turned into let's look at dogs right now.
And we saw these adorable puppies. Even I had to admit they were darn cute. And oh, how the boys seemed excited.
Really, what's the difference between getting one now and waiting a few months?
We couldn't get these puppies then- they would be GONE. Oh no! We want these puppies.
How the boys were begging... except the oldest, of course.
But then I realized.
*I* was the one who wanted this dog the least of anyone.
And I was the one who was going to be responsible for it. As much as we could say that the boys would help, they are still young. It's not like they could do all that much. Especially not the two youngest, who are the ones who want the dog.
And Hubs? He's not home that much.
This would be something else for ME to do.
I have enough messes and poop to deal with, without adding a dog to all that.
So, I squashed that idea.
At least, until we move.
Does your family have a pet? How did you decide to add one to an already busy family?
We've already been through that scare lately and with three little boys, we are DONE having babies.
But, that doesn't mean we don't debate other additions to our family.
I've never been a dog person. And my oldest is scared of dogs. And we don't have a fenced in yard right now. So, the idea of a dog was not one that we considered.
It was a thought for "some day."
And then we started talking about moving. Not far, but to a different house in a different neighborhood. One where we would have a fenced in yard.
And then two of the boys' uncles got dogs.
And oh, those sad little faces from my youngest two. And Hubs.
So, I started thinking okay, once we move, we can have a dog. For me to even give in to that was a huge concession.
But, somehow that turned into let's look at dogs right now.
Really, what's the difference between getting one now and waiting a few months?
We couldn't get these puppies then- they would be GONE. Oh no! We want these puppies.
How the boys were begging... except the oldest, of course.
But then I realized.
*I* was the one who wanted this dog the least of anyone.
And I was the one who was going to be responsible for it. As much as we could say that the boys would help, they are still young. It's not like they could do all that much. Especially not the two youngest, who are the ones who want the dog.
And Hubs? He's not home that much.
This would be something else for ME to do.
I have enough messes and poop to deal with, without adding a dog to all that.
So, I squashed that idea.
At least, until we move.
Does your family have a pet? How did you decide to add one to an already busy family?
posted by Shell at
7:00 AM
113 Comments:
Those are some cute pups.
I do not have a pet right now. My son was allergic to my longtime cat so we found him a great new home.
Truthfully, we're enjoying being pet free. The kids are enough.
Yes, we have a dog (actually two at the moment. I have always been a dog person. I have always had a dog, for as long as I can remember.
You would be surprised how much teaching ability you have with a pet. Even my my 4 year old is learning responsibility. He loves to feed the dogs and let them in and out of the house.
When we first got this dog, I signed up for a 'puppy"' training class at PetSmart. They allowed my oldest son, then 8, to sit in and take part of the training. He still remembers many of the things he learns and uses them. The others have learned from him.
Our dog serves so many roles in our family. I can't imagine being without her. She is a companion to all. She is a guard dog at night when (great since hubby works 3rds). She is a babysitter to some extent...when the kids are playing outside, she stays out there with them. No one steps foot on the property without me knowing. She will get between the kids and that person (even if she knows them), until I am present.
I absolutely recommend you research the breeds. Not all dogs will be good for your family. It's almost impossible to bond in that situation, making the responsibility seem like total work and not like adding a family member. The wrong dog could also make the transition for your oldest to build a deeper fear to dogs.
Also, have you checked out Petfinders.com. You might be able to find a slightly older pup. Most groups are really good in informing you of what settings what dogs could fit into or not fit into.
We had a dog. We got home two months before I found out I was pregnant with our first. Perfect timing, huh?
He actually got hit by a car when my oldest was 6 and I was pregnant with my third.
My children would love a dog and I admit that sometimes I get a little mushy when I see how cute they are and I remember that my son (who was 4 when our dog died) was incredibly close to our dog and they used to spend so much time in the backyard "playing". But then I remember how much work an amimal is and how little we are actually at home and I think "No Way". It wouldn't be fair to the dog and would not be fair to me. So for now they have to wait, no matter how much they beg.
Luckily we live in a condo with no back yard so this is a non-issue for us at the moment, but my husband will not leave it alone. That our son needs a dog to teach him responsibility and blah, blah. Since my husband is traveling all the time and our son is 2, this will only be more work for me...sow we're still undecided.
OMG...DO NOT get the dog!!! My friend down the street just got one...she is totally responsible for it. Her husband has even been staying at a hotel because he can't stand getting woken up by the puppy!
Save your sanity now...
Cute, but just looking at them makes me cringe. So much hair. They look like they would be shedders. My number one piece of advice, as a former dog owner, is to get one thta doesn't shed a lot. It is a LOT of work keeping up with the dog hair.
We had one dog, and then two months after we found out we were pregnant with Buddy, Jdaddy bought me a boxer puppy for my bday. I sat up all night long freaking out about having a dog, a new puppy, and expecting a baby.
We are dog and cat people--they are just a given. That being said the animals we have now we have had for a long time--they predate the boys. We are getting a new dog early next year so we get to go through the puppy thing again. Thank goodness they grow up quickly.
Aww, those pups are precious! We have two dogs. We got our first big ol' harry dog a month after we moved into our brand new house. I was not really on board, but I was out voted. Then, of course, years later, I was somehow talked into letting my hubs breed her and we kept one of the male pups.
The dog hair kills me. I vacuum A LOT, but the kids absolutely adore them... and they absolutely adore the kids. I guess it makes up for the hair. Also, my hubs is gone a lot and they make me feel safe because I know they aren't letting anyone in this house. ;)
Good luck!
You were very wise to realize before getting the dog that you would be the one caring for it! They are pretty cute, though.
We have cats that we got before we had our boys, and we're probably not getting any other pets until the last child is much, much older. I feel too guilty that we're neglecting them and I get unreasonably mad when they are a hassle because, as you say, I have enough messes to clean up already!
Having a fenced-in yard would definitely be helpful with a dog. So would having requirements for the boys to play with it and/or go for walks every day (not sure how much else you could require them to do). I say hold off until *you* are ready!
Oh, and this is totally snarky, but my mom and my MIL are scared of/don't like big dogs and it's amusing to watch them squirm when they come and visit. LOL. ;)
Aw, cute pups!
We actually had 2 cats in our apartment before our son was born. When he was 2 months old, we re-homed them. I was just too exhausted and spent to clean, feed, water and love them and they were just not getting the attention they needed and deserved.
Needless to say, no pets until the child can look after it himself!
It's good that you decided against a dog knowing you'd be the one to take care of it when you don't want to.
We can easily say no to pets because we rent and have a no pet policy. But someday I would love to have a dog. If that happens, I might go the route my mom did. She got her dog when he was 2 and already house trained. However I would make sure my dog doesn't shed like hers does. No vacuum or brush in the world can help!
To know me is to know that I would not be happy without a dog or two in my life. I'm a huge dog/animal person but if I had it to do over, I probably wouldn't have let my boys get those two guinea pigs for their birthdays two years ago. It's a constant battle to get them to clean that cage out! But I'm a firm believer in sticking it out. Once you make the decision to give an animal a home, I believe it should be forever. So...I think it is very good and wise that you are really thinking this through beforehand.
I'm a huge pet lover. We have 3 dogs and 2 cats right now, and as much of a pain as they can be when they're all acting crazy, I don't think I could imagine my house without them in it.
That being said, if you aren't thrilled with the idea of cleaning up after one, a puppy is not the way to go. Talk with your local shelter and see if they have an adolescent/older dog who is gentle with kids (for the sake of your oldest).
The animals we've adopted have been amazing pets. The dogs we've raised from puppies were so much harder. Plus, I'm a firm believer that if you get a "mutt" instead of a specific breed, you'll have a great dog. :)
Those puppies are too cute! We have a dog, she is 7 and she took to Will very easily. They are the best of buds. With a new baby coming, I am bit nervous of how she will feel. She definitely makes me feel safe when Lew is working late though.
I am with you, wait tell you have a fenced in yard because if the responsibility is going to fall on you, you'll need all the room you can get!
Yes, if you get a dog you will have four kids (or maybe five, depending on your husband). Big decision--don't fall for the adorable faces (puppies are only that cute because if they weren't you'd kick them to the curb).
We will never have a dog. We are a one cat family (we were a 4 cat family once--never again).
Good luck. But those puppies are cute.
We had a dog but she was very, very old and passed away when our daughter was about one. Now that our daughter is two and we're moving to a new house in a few weeks, of course we think about it. I also am contemplating having another baby. It's hard to figure out the right order of all of these things!
Run from the cuteness! Our kids begged for a dog for Christmas, and they got one. Now the poor thing never gets any attention, and sometimes they won't even go in the back yard because they don't want to deal with her. Plus the mess. Dear Lord can that dog make a mess. I wish we just wouldn't have done it.
They are pretty freaking adorable.
They are cute, but you are sooooo right. All of the work will be YOURS and trust me when I say a Pup is a LOT of work :)
We STILL call our now 7 year old dog our "first born."
We are thinking of a 2nd dog but we are not going to get a puppy. There's a program here called "Pen Pals" where non-violent criminals learn dog obedience training. They are given puppies rescued from kill shelters and train them for 1 year.
Then YOU get a fully trained dog that was saved from a horrible fate. And THEY leave prison with a marketable skill.
How cool is that??
Awe, come on people. (LoL)
I have 3 kids, 1 husband, 2 dogs, a cat and a bird and I would take those adorable puppies in a heart-beat.
But yes, that's CRAZY!
Don't listen to me. (LoL)
I would suggest NEVER picking an animal on the spur of a the moment. (Like looking at puppies inside a box, outside the store.)
Children are never too young to start learning pet responsibilty so I'd suggest starting out with a fish (nice and easy) and maybe even see if you/they can volunteer at an animal shelter.
Once you and your children see how you handle the fish and the learning curve, you can adjust your thoughts on getting a dog.
Just my opinion. :)
We have pet worms in a compost boxes. I love that there is no poop to clean up.
We have two dogs...both small a jack russell terrier and cairn terrier. One is 8 and the other is 4, so they are pretty easy to take car of however the thought of having a puppy and Nolan right now? Gives me a headache. I love our dogs, but I don't know know if I could handle training a puppy right now!
We do not have a dog. Which both Alex and David resent.
But seeing as how two fish have died in our house in two weeks, I don't feel that bad for them. Although I do feel bad for the fish.
I love dogs, but the only pet my hubby agreed to bring in our house was a bird. I was fine with that because he is actually super sweet, doesn't stink, and isn't loud at all! He is my 8 year olds pet and the entire family loves him! My youngest is begging for a snake at the moment, but that would require the family to also shop for a new Mommy because I will move out before I share my home with a snake! The dog I'm sure will come in time. It will just take me a few years to wear hubby down! :)
Good decision. Puppies are a TON of work. In fact, when we got ours was when I decided that I definitely did not want to have any more babies. Because you can't stick a baby in a kennel when it poops all over you. Wait till the kids can help. It will be worth it!
I can't imagine adding a pet at this stage . . . but we have two dogs & a cat who proceeded the children.
The amount of poop that I pick up is unreal (the dogs are old and don't always remember to ask to go outside, or poop in a corner as punishment for a walk that wasn't long enough or for making them wait to eat). But, the kids love the animals - absolutely love. In fact, when the girl is cranky, all I have to do is find the cat (who is strangely tolerant of her) and she's better.
My dh and kids all want dogs. I do not. And as you say I would probably be the one being responsible for it - so my vote trumps everyone else. always.
Well we all know I'm crazy. I had a newly purchased house, a husband in Alaska, and was on my own with two kids over summer vacation.
So I added a puppy.
Yes, it's extra work, but it has been so worth it. My kids adore her and so do we. She's a part of the family. Since she's a small dog, after two kids, you barely mind a mess.
Plus, she's almost done training. That helps :) It is more work though for sure.
My favorite and most loved dog died unexpectedly when I was pregnant with PJ. Distraught, we got another dog almost immediately, and well, he's nothing like my old dog. I can't warm up to him. He's a rebound dog.
I love dogs, so much, but I must say good choice.
We love our pup Gunner! you should definately consider one. When everyone else pisses you off, your sweet pup will always love you and be there for you no matter what. As for your oldest son, he'll eventually learn to love the dog, and won't be scared of him. - Oh, and I would seriously wait until you get a fence or move until you get one. Don't want to get attached and then your dog ends up missing!
But, I am warning you right now, no matter what anyone says, (I'll prove them wrong)- DOGS, especially puppys are expensive with vet bills, doggy proofing house, and finding them a good quality dog food!!!
We are having this exact discussion in our house right now. Previously my husband was the one home all day, so it was up to him. He didn't want one then (but loves dogs and does want one some day) because he didn't want to deal with it. Now that I'm home all day, I want one badly. And the kids do too. And we just got a fence. We're held back because we need a low-to-non-shedding dog because of allergies. Oh and we had a dog before we had kids who had severe separation anxiety and it was a big ol' mess. I'm afraid of that too.
Oh yes, we have dogs...and they're a lot of work. The puppy thing is tough so how about adopting one that's a little older from the humane society? Often they're potty trained which is HUGE!
I never wanted a dog. I always grew up with cats. They were pretty self sufficient and the pooped and peed in a box so we were good. I didn't need to kennel them or worry about getting home in time to let them out so they didn't relieve themselves all over the house. And then the family wanted a dog. And then they found Buddy. I fell in love with him and he is my buddy. He sits outside the bathroom and watches me get ready in the morning. He snuggles with me on the couch during my lunch hour. He is a 90lb lap dog. I can't imagine our lives without him.
We were inthe dog resistant camp for a long time. Almost 2 years ago, we decided to get one, because my teen daughter had been begging for one. She has a chronic illness, so we caved. I in NO WAY considered a puppy because I had had enough sleep deprivation when my kids were babies. We looked on Petfinders.com and found a WONDERFUL 4 year old Yorkie rescue, and it completely transformed me into a dog person. (I even posted about it at my blog http://www.anartfulmom.com/2011/08/choosing-pet-cat-vs-dog.html) She was the 4th dog we looked at. So,my vote is NO puppy, be patient, research breeds, and take the leap.
we have a cat (*I* have a cat)
hubby got it for me on my birthday
(he bought me golf clubs for christmas too - men)
he's an outdoor kitty and he shows up to poop on the synthetic grass
(he's a rebel)
and cry at the back door til he's fed.
I also have a leopard gecko, but he's low maintenance
I love puppies. I enjoy holding them, petting them, watching them run all silly-nilly like toddlers.
but I love to give them BACK to their owners.
I have learned that cute, irresistible puppies turn into not-so-cute DOGS.
I don't do DOGS
I am not an animal person by any stretch of the meaning and I once felt guilty for that, but not any more.
I refuse to get my children another pet just to make them happy, when it makes me miserable.
AWww How did you resist?? I would have been all over them like a bee to honey. Of course I love animals.. ahem.. just a little of course, not like I could run my own rescue or anything
We have FIVE cats. FIVE. If I could go back and do it again I think I'd have no pets. But I'm just bitter because everything was dandy until a few months back when the spraying started. There was no plan; we didn't get five at once. It's just what happens when you volunteer at a no-kill shelter for cats! (Yes, I have all the demented ones...)
We have a cat. I didn't want one. This cat wandered into our yard and my daughter and her friend gave him water. (I know, right) Everyone feeds him...boy do they! But who do you think cleans up his box! Me mostly...as in 99% of the time. The teen is supposed to do it as the cat is supposed to be hers. Middle daughter is terrified of him... mind you he is a LARGE cat and the teen has taught him to play rough. So we have a psycho cat. Oh and good for you for staying strong and saying no. Cause yeah, it would all fall on you.
We have been talking about getting an English bulldog for years. But we don't have a yard. With the new house, we will also have a little yard. But they are $2,000!!
Good for you for thinking thoughtfully and rationally concerning pet responsibility. We currently just have a cat. Maybe one day we'll do another dog (Hubs and I both had dogs growing up), but right now a cat just fits our lifestyle better. And self-sufficient as he is, he's still a beloved member of our family (even though he acts like a crotchety old man most of the time).
This summer I feel like I almost grieved over not having another child. I am not a dog person, and I considered getting a dog! I love cats. Wouldn't you know it, a stray started coming around. We all fell in love with it, and this cat is nice to my son because he didn't know him as an obnoxious crying baby! Come to find out, our neighbors didn't want it (it belonged to them) and they wanted us to keep it. So, we have Hawthorne, and we love him to pieces!
We have a dog and you are exactly right! I have to take care of it. You would think with all these kids that the task could be handled by someone else...nope! When she wants to eat she comes and stands by my legs. When she needs to go out, same thing. And we got her as an adult so we didn't even have to do the potty thing. I'm not saying don't do it, I'm just saying be prepared for the inevitable.
Sandy
We haven't had a puppy in a long time, our dog is 12 years old. But I do remember getting up at 4 am with her because she would whine and yelp. They are a lot of work and I agree, once you have a fenced yard, it will make it so much easier. Otherwise you are at the puppy's mercy everytime they have to go out and go potty.
But...those pups sure are cute! :)
Oh man. I got nothin' of value here. We have 2 dogs. The second one we got cuz I couldn't. resist. that. face.
I want a dog (actually what I really want is a horse, but no barn and hubby says garage meant for minivan), the kids want a cat, hubby wants nothing.
that's why we have fish. goldfish - easily and cheaply replaced if necessary. you don't even have to talk to them :)
We got one because it was Christmas and my dad was overseas in Desert Storm. He is not a dog person, so he got a little surprise when he came home. He grew to love that dog, though.
Although, I will say, as much as that dog was "mine", she slept in my parents' room, my parents fed her, let her out and cleaned up her poop.
Yeah, you'll be taking care of that dog. And there's a chance you might learn to love it, but there's a chance you might learn to hate it.
I say good job following your instincts.
Also, if you guys ever do get a dog, research the breeds because terriers are fun and playful but they dig, dig, dig. (I watch a lot of Animal Planet. Like, too much. Probably.)
But Shell, they're so cute!
Though this past weekend I met a pig and cow and have now decided to try and adopt both, so perhaps I'm not the voice of sanity in this situation.
PUPPIEEEEESSSS! Puppies! Who's a good puppy? Who's a GOOD PUPPY? You are. Yes you are. YOU ARE A GOOD PUPPY.
Um, I'm a dog person. We have a Labradoodle, we got him when my youngest was three. And I wuv my widdle puppy wuppy.
They look cute. They also look like they would need to go to the groomers often (big $). Since you are the one that will be taking care of them, definitely wait until you are ready. Lol. Use the time to decide which breed would be the best fit for your family. :)
Aww, look at those faces! We do not have a cat or dog because our fence has holes in it and pets are pretty expensive. Of course every time we see a puppy, everyone but me wants it. We (and I me I) have a guinea pig. I got him (and his partner, who has since passed on) from a family who wanted to "upgrade" to a dog. They were free and cute. Pretty high-maintenance for a rodent though. They make good companions for a mom who works at home and needs someone to talk to besides the plants. :)
We have a cat, who I've had longer than I've known DH. We had two cats, but one passed away a couple months before Mungee was born. Our current cat is having some health issues and we've already discussed the fact that if it is her time, we will not be adding another pet to our family. We have enough going on with jobs, a toddler and another one on the way that a pet is just too much for us to handle right now. And I'm just referring to a cat here! I don't think there is any way we would ever get a dog, especially a puppy that requires so much training and attention.
However, I would be interested in a goat to keep in the yard and eat the grass :)
I'm torn on my advice...we have 2 dogs. The first joined our family before any kids did. The second came before the second child.
The overwhelmed mommy in me screams NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!! Don't do it!!!!!!
But there's this other part of me that can't imagine life without dogs. I've grown up with them. I don't think we ever didn't have at least one. And they are so great with the kids and my kids adore them. Also, my 4 year old has started helping with the dogs. She feeds them every night and helps put them in and out of crates. So at least some of the responsibility is off me.
Good luck with your decision. Oh and my 2 cents...go mutt, seriously do have the best personalities and the least issues. We have a mutt and a full bred. Mutt is awesome, healthy, playful and super smart. Full bred...always has ear infections, is allergic to it's own shadow, is not trained fully...I could go on and on...
Those are cute pups. We have a 10 year old lab. He is awesome but lots of work. Good luck.
I feel the same way about the dog thing, except I LOVE dogs. I'd have a thousand if it was legal. BUT...then I got a puppy once, when Bree was just over year old and I decided then that it was way too much. You're exactly right...it was just another for me to do. Paul worked all day long, so he wasn't home to help house train it and it was hard juggling a puppy with Bree. We found another home for the puppy and haven't had one since. I do get dog fever every now and then though...I kinda have it now...but again...I have to remind myself that it is just another thing for me to do and my life won't be just so like it is now.
mommy having to deal with poop = no dog EVER for this family. That i will never do. plus i greatly dislike dogs/cats... i'm just not a shedding animal kinda gal i don't think lol.
I tried it a couple times, but I'm not a pet person so it just wasn't the right thing for us.
I grew up with outdoor cats. JErk Face had a hamster.. actually it was his sister's, but he had 'inebriated conversations' with it (he's 8 years older)...
When we got Mojo, in NC, I was lonely when he would go away on training, so we got a cat. I wanted an outdoor one, but Jerk Face refused to have a 'neighborhood cat'... and now we're dealing with all of the fur.
Those puppies are cute, though! I like them when they're other peoples!
**You could volunteer at a shelter, let the boys play with them, walk them, whatever they do...?
If you aren't ready for a dog, then it was a smart move to not get a puppy. We brought home dog #2, an 8 week old puppy, this past spring and because it had been a while, sort of "forgot" how much time they take up. Now that he is 7 months old he is much better but you have to be willing to invest A LOT of time into a dog or else it is not fair to them. Puppy classes/obedience classes, socializing the dog so that he/she gets along with other dogs and strangers, potty training, daily walks, etc.
Maybe start with an older dog from a shelter that is already housebroken? That way you wouldn't have a puppy nipping at your kids, possibly eating everything in sight, etc. And before you do ANYTHING research breeds to figure out what would be the best fit for you and your family. If you aren't willing to run a high energetic dog then they are going to go crazy and rip up your house.
Ok, our kids were all falling over themselves over a dog and then got all glossy-eyed when I presses them on who was going to take it for walks, let it out at night and clean up its poo...
We settled on hermit crabs and guess who's taking care of them? Let's just say it's NOT the kids.
I'm now in charge of four nasty little crabs but every time I look at them I secretly thank my lucky stars it's not a dog.
I have never NOT had a dog. There's nothing like the affection from a big, snuggly furball, and the lessons it teaches children about compassion? Amazing. If i didn't live in a teensy apartment in brooklyn I'd have 9000 dogs. Big ones. Great Danes, even! For now we only have one black lab (BEST BREED EVER!!!).
I will say this: puppyhood is HARD. You HAVE to train the dog to not be an asshole. Dogs that never learn to stop chewing, stop jumping and stop pulling are assholes. It's never their fault, though: it's up to the owners. That means, often, a trainer is needed, and hours, days, weeks, MONTHS of practice and work. It's hard. Worth it 100%, but really tough.
That said, despite a gazillion dollars worth of vet bills and lost shoes, I wouldn't trade my pooch in for the world.
Oh Shell, yes- this. We got our puggle just over a year ago now and make no mistake about it- I wanted him least and the work is (almost) all mine. But.
But- I love him. He's cuddly and wonderful and has been really good for all of us.
Except for the poop. Yuck.
:)
oh darlin...I don't know what to tell you. We got Fenton (our German Shepherd) about 6 months after we were married, he was a reject from the seeing eye , so he is pretty well behaved and he's smaller than most male GS.
John had 2 dogs with his ex wife and didn't have any dogs growing up, so he wanted one, so we got one.
He's hard to care for, we kennel him a lot to be able to go away etc..and John and I are in charge of him, John more than me for sure. The boys like him , but they are little and not capable of helping at all.
however, doggies are fun for boys....(even if I don't want to say that) I could go on and on about the pros and cons, but I also know that you have to make best decision for your family....seriously...don't stress yourself out about a new member....
either way, good luck deciding. I'll be waiting to hear what you come up with :)
xo
I've always had dogs throughout my life. They are a lot of work, that's for sure, but they're also great companions. I don't have much advice for you. I can see the pros and cons right now. Just wishing you luck in your decision!
We have pets. They are the pretend children who do what I say;P
We are pet-less at the moment. I do love dogs, but I don't have any interest in taking care of more poop! ;-) I'm with you there. We will - one day - get a dog, but I'd like my youngest to be @ 5 before we take that leap. I think you made a wise decision.
I don't blame you. We have two old fat cats who do nothing but shed and vomit all over my house. I'd be lying if I said I wish they'd live forever. I'm personally ready for our home to be an animal free environment. I've had the same thought as you though -- a dog might be fun for the kids. But then I go to my parents house and watch them have to wipe their dogs ass after its been outside because there's a turd stuck to its butt....and then I'm like "Yeaaaa...never mind!"
I always had a dog growing up and loved it. Eric never did as his sister was allergic. He has no desire to have pets and either do I- and so that is the way it is going to stay :)
I'm a veterinarian for a large shelter. As such, I am a huge proponent of adopting from a local rescue group or the animal shelter rather than supporting breeding. The world has more puppies than it knows what to do with as it is!
I have 4 cats and until recently rabbits too (so sad to say goodbye). I love animals, obviously and can't imagine my house without them. Still, do it when you're ready and not before. You're right, that's one more little creature relying on you, Shell!
They are cute puppies but I can almost guarantee that you'll be doing most of the work when it comes to the dog!
I know this all to well! No, mom we'll take care of the dog. We'll feed her, we'll play with her, blah...blah...blah.
Guess what I do all the time?
Man, I wish I would have stuck to my guns like you did. Somehow we ended up with two dogs and guess who takes care of them...ME!
Although, now they are part of the family and I would probably be the one that is the most heartbroken if anything should happen to them.
My littlest LOVES animals and would love to have a dog. Knowing I'm going to end up with all the work I've been very against the idea. The kids have sea monkeys. If they can keep them alive they can move on to gold fish. We'll work our way up the evolutionary ladder like that :-).
We don't have any pets and don't want any. I think they add way too much stress to the mix.
Awe they are so cute! My hubby wants a dog but we have a cat {had before we were married} and she is very feisty...so I couldn't do that. My boys are actually really scared of dogs so that's why I would want one, to help them get over it...maybe one day.
I'm in the same boat as you, everyone wants a dog but me.
luckily my hubs has horrible allergies and asthma so we get no pets...
and although sometimes I think a cat would be nice, or even a dog or bird, at the end of the day it's just more shit for me to clean...literally
Hmmm, you have inspired a post! Long story short, my hubs said he could have come home w/ a dog b/c a neighbor had taken in a stray they couldn't keep. I went and saw the dog, 6 months pregnant. The dog licked my face, jumped in my arms, the baby kicked. And now we have CousCous. Our plan was to get dogs AFTER kids, but a part of me is kind of glad we didn't wait. Now Wee 'Burb just takes for granted that this dog is here, and the dog does the same.
But...in fairness, I telecommute. So having the dog has been easy b/c we can walk during the lunch hour and she goes out a lot during the day.
Recently, hubs approached me about the PERFECT other dog. A second dog. And I considered. And then realized, soon I will be in the office. And soon the dog will be crated. And two dogs trapped who need to be walked and loved after a long day of work...just not going to happen.
I'm a dog person and I'm very happy we adopted a pup from the shelter two years ago. My boys (5 & 7) love her, wrestle with her, ride her and hug her to death. But they do not help with the dog. Nor does my husband.
Puppies are a LOT of work. It would be like caring for an infant all over again, at least in the beginning. A slightly older dog (abt 2 years) from a shelter might be something to think about. They need a lot less care than a puppy. Good luck!
We adopted a 3 year old dog so I wouldn't have another "baby" to raise. I'm so happy we made that decision!
These are my sentiments exactly!! My husband wants a dog so bad, but I would be the one cleaning up the poop, and right now, I clean up enough of it. But, maybe some day when the kids are older.
Oh no! I love my dog but we're so pet free after her. Too, too much. And I hate fur. And we have a Golden Retriever (best dogs in the world IF you ever decide to get one). But no. If your gut is telling you no, DON'T DO IT. Believe me, puppies can be just as much work as babies (except for the crying part).
You already know that I adopted a puppy this summer and promptly returned him 4 days later.
Rock on.
We have a dog and I so want to get rid of him. He's just too high maintenance and unpredictable. I've been trying to give him back to the rescue group we got him from but they don't want him either! After this dog, I don't want another one for a long time.
JUST blogged about our puppy woes. We are definitely dog people around here but once you get one it will be for the rest of your life (just with different dogs) Be SURE before you do it. The puppies are awfully cute, though ;)
Whew! I was in your exact shoes except I am also taking care of my mom who wanted the dog too! We got him and I love him to bits but I AM DOING ALL OF THE WORK! The kids don't remember all the promises they made before he arrived..poop pick up, feeding, walking, blah, blah, blah.
It is a lot of work! Maybe wait until the kids are older and can help out! :)
I love my dog beyond belief, but if you aren't sold on the idea of getting a dog you should wait. When you are more open to it you should check rescue sites and you could probably get a dog that is already house broken and you could know his temperment if he comes from a good rescue organization so the dog would have the best chance for success with your family.
This is probably the exact comment you have gotten from 90% of your almost 90 comments here, but I can't help seeing my own words typed out so I had to share.
Oh, but the dog does me a great companion. I talk to mine all the time. Seriously, I'm totally, partially normal too.
I was never really a dog person myself, that was before I had a dog. :) Now, I cannot imagine my days without my dog. Really, I couldn't. As a matter of fact, he's sleeping on my feet right now and I can't feel them. Getting up to take him out to go potty here in a little bit might be funny!
We have two dogs. A boxer, who is my dog, that is way hyper and that's why nobody else will claim him. He is super loyal and affectionate. We also have a mini dachshund who belong to everyone else because he is still a puppy and cute. But for some reason I am the only one who works with him to get him potty trained. Maybe because I am the one who would end up cleaning up after him if I didn't.
Good luck with your sad puppy eyes that I'm sure you've been getting. And if you want a mini dachsund I might be willing to mail you one. Depends on how much longer I have to get up in the middle of the night to let him out. :)
I absolutely can not look at cute puppy faces without wanting to take them home with me.
Just looking at that picture of cute puppies makes me want to drive up there and get one.
But we don't have the room, and I don't have the time. So I restrain myself from the cute puppies.
you made a good decision. Too much work for an already busy mama.
You're right, you would be primary care giver to the new pup. It's a lot to think about. Being a mom is hard enough, adding a puppy (especially if you're just adding a puppy to make your kids happy) is a big deal.
Good for you for knowing your limits.
We've always had pets in our home. Rigth now we have a dog and a cat. The cat is 15 and is starting to show her age unfortunately so she won't be around much longer. The dog is only 3 and we got her after we had to put our 6 year old lab down because he had a stroke in his spine. Our current dog chose us I believe. While I love having them, they are a lot to care for. Not to mention you have to find a place for the dog if you go out of town.
BUT, they do add love to the home and Buggy LOVES climbing all over his doggy! OH, but that brings up another point...the hair! UGH
We wanted to get a dog when we moved into a new house with a yard. We ended up getting the dog 6 months before we moved and had to deal with no fenced yard. Not fun.
We have considered it, but for "one day." We also have to keep in mind that each time we visit the States we would need to pay for a dog kennel for a couple of weeks.
And right now my garden is about the only poop-free area in all of France. (If you discount my son's accidents).
I'm not really an animal person, but we have a cat. I love my cat, but it's too much. Nonetheless, the cat isn't going anywhere.
I have never ever been a dog person, but I figure my boys might want one someday. But as a momma of a currently potty training baby, I cannot deal with cleaning any MORE POOP! :)
I think you either have the pet gene or you don't. I don't. No one is lobbying too hard for one anyway. BUT your post did have me wondering (for a second or two) if it would make a good carrot to dangle in front of Son re: my homework post. But it's such a problematic carrot I don't think it would be worth it!!
I think you're making the right decision. There's plenty of time.
We do, but our pets were a part of our family before we were a family. They're all older than my daughter. ;)
Part of the reason I'm holding off is because I know I'll be the one taking care of any animal we get.
I think we may get a cat in the future, the DISTANT FUTURE.
Yay--I'm the 100th person to comment :)
I have to say: there is no greater feeling in the world than to come home to a dog. They are always so excited to see you and so sweet and will really be your best friend. They are worth every mess and all the frustrations... and I say this as someone with a very heavy heart because my beloved beagle of 10 years isn't doing so well and we may have to put him down. It's heartbreaking but I would never trade a moment of it in.
XOXO
And those are some really, REALLY adorable puppies :)
Oh, I would be tempted too if I wasn't allergic. Though that may be a good thing. We've accidentally killed all our other pets: hermit crabs, fish, a snail. Probably best we just stick with my daughter's pet rock for now.
How funny. We are currently having the to get a dog or not debate in our house right now. In fact, my Thursday post is all about it.
Those are some cute puppies. Not a reason to get one, but hard to resist!
No animals here, (except when I call my husband a pig....ona regular basis), but I agree with you, it would be your responsiblity. Eventually that puppy is going to get bigger and it won't be the same cute as puppy cute. The excitement would where off. Good call for the time being!!
Lynn
Hate to say it, but the puppy we got 2 years ago was the hugest impulse buy I've ever made and while I kind of like her, our lives would be so much simpler without her.
Scratch that, MY life would be - you are exactly right - the biggest responsibility would fall to you.
But all that being said, my girls love her sooooo much.
Other pets? Hamster, beta fish, toad.
We had his and her dogs before we got married. Right before baby 3 was born, one dog died. And honestly, we will happily be dog free when mine passes away. It will feel weird to not have a dog, but as other commenters have said, the kids are enough!
I don't want to get a dog until I'm sure the kids will be willing and able to help take care of it. In the meantime, I have my big orange cat, Julius!
Dogs are definitely a big responsibility. They need discipline, attention, and exercise just like kids. And training (sometimes like kids! Hee!) When you're ready (because it sounds like you will be the main caretaker), research breeds. Something smaller may be appropriate for your son to help build his confidence with them. Even looking at shelter dogs it's a good idea to research breeds so you'll have an idea of that dog's needs. For now, nothing wrong with just cuddling that pile o' puppies!
We have two dogs. Not sure we'll get more pets once they're gone.
Oh my gosh, those puppies would be hard to say no to. But then I'd remember that they grow up, into big dogs, and make messes. And well, I have 3 kids that do that just fine. So no, no I don't have a dog. Though they are very cute.
I'm more of a cat person, hubby prefers dogs, and the rule I made is no pet until the kids are old enough to care for it. I totally back your decision.
We're petless. I'm not a pet person, but growing up we always had cats.
We had a cat, it was a stray- when we first moved here. He was an indoor/outdoor cat and super easy.
Then when Aaron was deployed and I was pregnant with Connor, something possessed me and I adopted a rescue dog. It was a puppy and so cute...
BUT she was bad. She bit. And she grew into this huge thing. We loved her and she was fine with us but we were constantly afraid she'd get out of our backyard and bite someone.
My girls always fed her, and were the ones to play with her and all that, but then one day she nipped at Mia and I said that's it. We got rid of her, the twins were newborns and I was wary of her.
I still feel bad about it, because it was a commitment I bailed on. We'd had her about 4 years.
You and I are SO on the same page! My boys have been BEGGING for a puppy. But no. Just no. We both work full-time. It wouldn't be fair to the dog. I joke and tell them, "You can either have a puppy or a Mommy, but not both."
They usually say puppy. Heh.
We are considering a pet also because my oldest has been begging so much for a puppy. With such a busy life though I am still having second thoughts about it. Until I really make up my mind I'm not going to get one. We will see at another time.
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