Well, the holidays are over.  The goodies have all been consumed, the decoration shoved back into that tiny spot in the closet and everything has settled back into normalcy.  Our thoughts become focused on spring and the hope that it will soon be here.

Spring brings with it many ideas for new purchases and projects.  Perhaps a new addition to the family in the soft, furry, four-legged form?  Okay, the decision is final; you’re getting a puppy or kitten.  Will all the excitement, you just can’t wait another minute until you have that sweet little thing in your arms.  STOP!

 Shelters all over the country are full of pets that have been abandoned by owners who took less time to decide what type of pet to spend a lifetime with than which brand of air freshener to buy.  This is a lifetime commitment!  In order to make this lifetime relationship a fun and fulfilling one, several considerations must be made.  If you opted on a pet of the canine variety, here are a few factors to keep in mind for choosing a purebred dog:

            Type of Residence

If you live an a tiny one bedroom dwelling, a Great Dane with that lethal wagging tail constantly knocking over your collection of Australian crystal might not make a good fit.  Also, apartment dogs generally must be taken outside on a leash to perform potty duties.

            Activity Level

Do you enjoy exercise or are you a couch potato?  You certainly don’t want to choose a high-energy breed of dog such as those in the hunting category if you prefer knitting to runs on the beach.  Also don’t fall into the mindset that if you choose a small dog it will be a quiet and reserved dog.  Just ask any owner of a Jack Russell Terrier.

            Temperament

Do you have children or elderly people living in your home?  These issues have very different requirements.  Are you concerned about security and would like a dog to be an excellent alarm system? 

            Grooming

Would you enjoy bonding with a long haired breed of dog like a Yorkshire Terrier by spending some “quality combing time” together or do you barely have enough time to keep a short haired Miniature Dachshund bathed?  If you’re set on a long haired dog but aren’t prepared to commit to the effort, can you afford to have it done professionally?  Also, beware that choosing a shorthaired breed of dog does not necessarily mean that your home will be “hair free”.  Chinese Pugs, for example, shed enormously.

            Finances

Your mind must deal with the concepts of money, even though your heart is overcome with all the emotional issues.  Do you have the budget to feed and care for a Chihuahua, but you’re hankering for a Newfoundland?  Not only do larger breeds of dogs obviously consume more food; health care costs will be more.  Medications are generally dosed according to weight.

If you are thinking that a pet of the feline variety would fit into your lifestyle better, you still need to at least consider temperament and grooming.  Purebred cats vary widely on these issues.  On the plus side for cats, they can usually flourish being left along for longer periods of time than dogs.

Getting back to those packed animal shelters, just because that nice elderly couple could not contend with “Comet” streaking around the house constantly, that doesn’t meant that he might not be perfect for you and your three little boys.  Animal shelter staff members can be an excellent source for matching you up with a pet that fits your requirements.  While you are at the shelter, certainly don’t overlook the merits of a mixed breed dog or cat.

With a little forethought, your life can be greatly enriched by the addition of a pet whose requirements are the same as yours.  The following web sites may provide helpful information as you seek to match a pet with your life style.

	Purina - Select a Dog Breed
	Select-a-Pet, Choosing the Perfect Dog
	Select-a-Pet, Choosing the Perfect Cat

If you still have questions, give us a call here at Greens Fork Animal Hospital at 765-962-4389 or 765-886-5191 and we’ll be happy to try to assist you.  We have lots of opinions on this subject and are always just dying to express them.

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