First thing’s first – Happy St. Patrick’s Day! ☘️ I just learned that I’m part Irish (thank you, Ancestry.com DNA test) and am kind of excited about it. Ireland is a beautiful country! Maybe this will be the excuse I need to go visit 🤔
Now, back to what I really came here to talk about – dogs! I’ve been thinking a lot about getting another puppy, partly because I think Savannah would love having a little sister to play with, but mostly because my job search has turned up a few interviews and I’m facing the reality of eventually having to leave her by herself 8 hours a day, 5 days a week. It makes me really sad thinking about her having me all day, every day and then barely having me at all. That’s when the idea of getting another dog really sounds appetizing. If I know she technically won’t be alone, I know I’ll feel better. But is it really the right thing to do?
I did some research and, according to the American Kennel Club, there are 3 questions you should ask yourself before you make the big decision to welcome a new family member. Unlike brand new pet owners, second-time pet owners know what it’s like but they might forget how hard the puppy months (or years) were.
- How old is your current pup? If they’re still too young to know that going to the bathroom on your brand new rug is a no-no, it might not be the best time. This will only lead to more frustration, and it’s best to train your current fur babe completely before venturing out.
- Do you have the time? As we all know, taking care of a puppy takes a lot of time and hard work. If you’re already strapped for free time, it might be best to wait it out until you know you can put all of your effort towards training this new puppy. This may be my answer as to whether or not I should get a playmate for Savannah, but the good thing is that I will have 2 other people in my house to help me out. I won’t be alone!
- And that leads me to the last question – is your family on board? Some things will need to change in the household and everyone will need to pitch in to help. If everyone is not willing to do so, it might not be the best time for a puppy.
Looks like I have some thinking to do! Have you made the jump from 1 dog to 2? Share your experience in the comments below!
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