Should We Get A Dog? (Conclusion: No!)
Posted on 18. Dec, 2008 by Laura-Jane - Whimfield in House
I’ve often toyed with the idea of getting a dog. They’re so cute and warm and cuddly. Don’t you just want one?
I mean, look at this one, our neighbour’s dog, Angel. She comes and visits us once in a blue moon. She looks menacing, but I’ve never trusted a dog more than I trust this one. Although she’s energetic, she’s the sweetest, gentlest dog I’ve ever experienced.
But seriously, do we really want a dog of our own? Should we get a dog?
Right now we have no dependent responsibilities: no children, no pets, not even any houseplants (except one tiny aloe vera plant that I never water). And I have to say, I kind of like it that way. For now anyway.
Of course, there are times when it would be wonderful to have a dog, like when you’re taking a walk in the woods or curled up near the fire. But there are many times when I think, “Pheeouph, thank goodness we don’t have…anything!”
For some, taking on responsibilities come easily. For me, it takes a lot of thought, and in the end I usually opt for supreme independence. I’m not sure whether it’s a good thing or a bad thing, but it’s the way I am.
So for now, there’ll be no dog racing around our fields and following us around the house. But I’m okay with that. In fact, more often than not it makes me say, “Pheeouph!”
Laura-Jane - Whimfield
Dec 18th, 2008
Am I missing out on dog-love?
Steven Fisher
Dec 18th, 2008
Yes, you are. So am I, for what it’s worth.
But the nice thing about getting a dog is you can always do it in a few years. Given the amount of work you guys still have to do, I think you’re doing the right thing not getting one.
Kerry
Dec 18th, 2008
Getting a dog was a huge decision, akin to making the decision to have a child. Seriously, I think it’s the same. You will have this new family member with you for the next 15 or so years!
We finally did get a dog when my husband retired and could devote the time and energy necessary to raise and train him. We now have Riley in our lives, a lovely Irish Setter who is 16 months old and a wonderful companion. When I watch him run in the fields or romp in the snow, I’m witnessing pure joy. But there is also work and money involved too. He must be groomed, bathed, fed and exercised daily (which is good for us too!). But he brings unbridled enthusiasm and energy to our house. We love him.
So, when you are ready, you will know. Just do some research on which breed is right for you. Or adopt a dog from the Humane Society, there are some great dogs there that need homes. And enjoy your solitude for now, because once you have a dog, you’ll never be alone again.
Vicki
Dec 18th, 2008
I never thought I would be asking myself the same question, but at age 50ish I pondered the same question. What prompted this was the fact that my adult daughter got a puppy. I fell in love with it and it made me laugh. I decided against getting a dog as I recalled my earlier thinking, that it was alot of work. So when I need a fix I watch dog videos on U-tube. It fills the void for me for now anyways.
John Quimby
Dec 18th, 2008
Hmmm…
There’s another possibility.
You just might be adopted by a dog.
Nora
Dec 18th, 2008
We moved here Dec 19, 2003 with 3 children…….5 days later we were given a pure breed black lab…..cute puppy….nice family dog….but I must say not so bright. They are exactly like having a child………except these children never grow up. We love our dog, but you can’t just take off for the weekend or have an impromptu overnight somewhere…….so if you are not totally into the idea of having a dog to look after….don’t do it……They are wonderful loving creatures, but they also clear the coffee table with their tails and sometimes even break the no eating off the table rule and don’t always remember their manners when guests are involved…….ours thinks he’s a lap dog……80lbs of lapdog…….he tends to have to go outside when guests first arrive until he settles down. I’d wait at least until the renovations are done, trust me on this one …….. paint and dogs don’t mix. :0)
warren
Dec 18th, 2008
You already have my favorite kind of dog…a nice neighbor dog. It goes home when you are tired of it, it mostly poops not in your yard, no vet bills, but you still get to play with it and do most of the good things…
Now a cat…you need a cat of your own…
Kim
Dec 18th, 2008
Dogs are good.
Cats are better! Easier to find a cat-sitter, too.
And so much for suggesting you get chickens! We got chickens as soon as we landed here – at last, farm-fresh eggs. If you ever want any, we have some lovely breeds here …!
And think about it, you DID buy sixty (I think) acres. Why buy so many if not to fill ‘er up with critters? :)
kazari
Dec 18th, 2008
We often talk about getting a dog. But then, we like to run away for the weekend, too, and you can’t take dogs into National Parks around here. So we’d have to leave it behind.
I borrow my friend’s dog. And sometimes, we’ve taken the puppies from the pound out for a walk (you have to sign up for it).
All the love – none of the commitment.
Laura-Jane - Whimfield
Dec 18th, 2008
You’re all making good points… It’s that constant battle of pros and cons!
@Steven – I agree. We still do have lots to do and that definitely affects our decision-making
@Kerry – I have definitely thought about the money aspect, as well. I like the thought of needing to walk the dog, too. Because I don’t get outside as often as I should.
@Vicki – I didn’t know you were considering getting one of your own!
@John – Our neighbour’s dog does have a good home already, she’s just incorrigibly curious. Time will tell.
@Nora – Tomorrow will be your five year anniversary! Did you plan on getting a dog five day’s after you arrived??! You are brave! It’s been a year and we’re still not ready, lol.
@Warren – I do love cats. I really really do. I want one! They don’t seem like as much work. I do hope that we’ll get a cat once our indoor renos are done.
@Kim – I’m about to write that I want chickens too, but look how contradictory I am! I want cats, I want chickens, but then again I don’t want anything.. I don’t make sense?
@Kazari – That’s too bad that you can’t take dogs to national parks! That seems silly in my book. Dogs need somewhere to go, too, especially if they don’t have large yards.
Corey
Dec 18th, 2008
Yes. It seems as if you are folks that are usually around the house anyways, so it should be much trouble. You have a huge area for it to poop, so you may not even have to clean up after it.
I think it is absolutely worth it. We got a rottweiler puppy, and he is amazing. They are extremely intelligent, very chill, and wonderfully loyal.
Laura-Jane - Whimfield
Dec 18th, 2008
@Corey- A rottweiler, see, that sounds scary. BUT, from getting to know Angel (white dog above), who looks very scary herself, I have a new appreciation for scary-looking dogs. In fact, I almost want one myself. I can’t remember, I think that our neighbour’s dog is a boxer maybe? I don’t know my breeds. And, yes, now that you mention it, we do have a large area for it to poop. But…that being said…I’m still not so sure… I think that just reminds me that with a dog, there will come poop. :)
Martin
Dec 19th, 2008
Maria and I have had 4 dogs over the last 12 years. We love them all to death. 2 passed away in that time and in both cases we were deeply heartbroken for many months. You become very attached as they are a constant part of your life. It’s primarily for this reason that we’re reluctant to adopt more in the future.
One other concern is the cost involved. When they’re healthy the vet check-ups and food are fairly manageable. However, as they get older, or if they get sick, the costs can be quite high. Our large, older Rottweiler-cross is on a special reduced protein diet due to liver/kidney issues. He needs check-ups and blood-work twice a year, plus medication for arthritis and thyroid control. In the event of illness, you can be looking at other costs like blood tests, antibiotics, x-rays, repeated vet visits, or in worse cases hospitalization and surgery. My feeling is that if a person wants to get a dog, they should be in a position to outlay several thousand dollars at any time for health related costs. This is a significant reason why I keep working salaried jobs – to be able to afford this level of care.
Gary Gray
Dec 19th, 2008
Hi Laura-Jane
Don’t know if you and Cam should get a dog or not but my dad was a dog person and this song by Patti Page was one of his favorites.
Here is the “You Tube” version so I hope you like it.
If the embeded version dosn’t work in my post I will put the link in below.
“How much is that doggie in the window”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HTPMkVHUsNU
Smiles :o)
Gary
Naomi
Dec 19th, 2008
Yes, gettting a dog could be FUN! This is coming from one who never, ever thought that having a dog would be any fun at all. We got a dog the DAY after we moved to “the country” (not exactly my idea) and now can’t imagine life without her! It would be so quiet, so clean, and so BORING! We have a doberman and although most people think they are a “scary” breed, she is the most gentle and loving pet ever. She is pretty low maintenance too. Now, with snowy weather, she spends most of the day inside curled up on her couch…but she is ready and excited to get outside as soon as we want! If you are willing to put in the time at the beginning to train a puppy (the hardest part), it is worth it!…..but, then again having no attachments at all could be handy as well….hmmmm….
Nora
Dec 19th, 2008
Yes today is our 5th Anniversary of moving our family half way across the country…….had no intention of getting a dog that quickly……it was a gift. The people who gave it to us knew the children were going to be alllowed to get a dog for the first time because we had moved onto 17 acres…….not the 25 by 100 ft we were used to. Sometimes during the renovations having a puppy was hysterical……like when we pulled out all the carpets and refinished the floors underneath …..when the dog was allowed back in the room he slid all the way to the other end of the living room…..he looked like those commercials with the puppy and the toilet paper placed against the wall so he didn’t get hurt. Our dog is a big baby……right now with the snow he will only go out to do his business and will whine to come back in………we don’t let him roam because he has a bad habit of going on the road…….black dogs on the road are bad for drivers (like I said he is not bright……..cute but not bright) We are pretty much finished with the Reno now…….built a pergola in the back yard and the front deck……..still need a back deck……but its not something I plan on doing anytime soon…….finished all the indoor reno’s…..living without a kitchen was the worst one…..mind you when we moved in there wasn’t much of a kitchen….but while you are doing your reno’s I’d suggest not thinking about the dog thing………enjoy the neighbours dog…….he does look awfully cute.
Laura-Jane - Whimfield
Dec 19th, 2008
@Martin – Thanks for sharing. Poor dogs! They’re just like us…
We’re all about keeping our costs low, and I will admit that cost has factored into our decision as well. It’s obvious that your love of dogs is strong, and interesting to note that it’s almost so strong that it affects whether you want to have one in the future.
@Gary – Thanks for the video. I love Doris Day! I went through a big musical stage in my youth. My favourites were Doris, Ann Miller, and, of course, Judy Garland.
@Naomi – You are now officially a dog person! :)
@Nora – Happy anniversary! I think you are totally right. I do not want dogs slipping and sliding and getting covered in dust and wagging tails on freshly painted walls! I think usually we’re pretty good at staying on task and not taking on too much, but at the same time I wonder if we’re not just a little *too* practical. (That being said, I don’t think we could handle getting a dog as a gift. I think we’d have to give it back! But that’s so much harder when you have kids saying, “Can we keep him? Can we keep him?”)
LJ
Dec 19th, 2008
You may be missing out on dog-love, but you’re not missing out on shoe-chew!
Phil
Dec 19th, 2008
Laura-Jane –
Good question. One I’ve occasionally posed to my single, childless self. Here’s what I keep coming back to: dogs are an ACTIVE pet, whereas cats are a PASSIVE pet. Dogs require your attention, care, and physical participation; cats really just need you to fill their dish from time to time, and they figure out the rest (unless you go the route of prissy housecats, a totally different animal).
Chickens, I’ve heard, can be a nice farm accessory (not so much “pets”), even providing food and occasional income if you do it right.
Figure on putting the same care into it as you put into houseplants (in my case, I turned around one day in August and discovered a plant I’d forgotten all about, and hadn’t watered in months. If I ever have children of my own, I’m pretty sure the State will take them away from me before I hit the hospital parking lot).
Or, another option I’ve seen people do, is to work with rescued animals; you can pet-sit them for weekends, and it keeps them out of Humane Society shelters (not to mention Humane Society back rooms). Check out if any of those org’s operate in your community.
mom Marjorie
Dec 19th, 2008
hey, Laura-Jane, whatever you finally decide, I’ll support you emotionally.
You should write about your dog Niko! Here are some of my memories, though I know you have many of your own!!! I flunked three dog obedience courses with him- because he was such a bundle of loving energy (and not neutered, because he was a show dog. That’s why he was so lively! ) He gnawed the doors and door jams when it thundered and he was scared being home alone. Being a Keeshond (Dutch barge dog who loves pulling people and things), I remember Niko pulling you, on your skateboard, at full speed around the corner of Nanoose Avenue onto Pym Road. Hey, this showed that you were a very good skateboarder!! Niko got his countless ribbons and rosettes, becoming a Canadian Champion before the age of 12 months. He won for us (and the breeder and the handler) such items as a silver tea set, pottery wine goblets, etc etc etc. You and I flunked grooming – Darlene did it for us about once a month. Once it took her 18 hours to comb out his beautiful ‘double’ coat. Remember,our house three sections – the rat’s (your room and surroundings), the dog Niko’s, and the cat’s. And ohk yes, the budgies. To go from one part of our house to the other, one had to jump over hurdle-like barridades. Yes, I know that this loving sweet exuberant dog was a unique situation and most dogs are hopefully better matched to their owners…
If you did decide on a cat, it’s nice to have a cat that is not a “hunter” who would kill your beautiful song birds. But, knowing if your new cat would be a preadator or not is impossible to figure out until they are living on your property. Or is it!?!? Any comments, anyone???
What about chickens (if you can be bothered to build a chicken coop). They have such personalities, too, when you communicate with them on an individual basis.!
Conclusion: If you ponder this “dog” topic too long, you’ll scare yourself off from ‘action’ If you really want a pet, just’ ‘do it’, and you’ll ‘go with the flow’ and act responsibly towards it, as needs arise.
Laura-Jane - Whimfield
Dec 19th, 2008
@LJ – Don’t I know it! I have few enough shoes as it is..!
@Phil- So does that mean you are completely petless, too? And…having read much of your blog I know you would be a wonderful parent because of the work you do.
@Mom- Lol, I love you, Mom. Yes, we had a dog once. His name was Niko. He was so cute and fluffy, he looked like this. We did not train him very well, lol. But we loved him dearly!
Michelle
Dec 19th, 2008
We have two dogs and a kitten. One dog is an Australian Cattle dog mix, sweet and gentle. The other is a special needs, purebred Australian Cattle dog. He’s blind but you’d never know it. He’s high energy, vocal and highly amusing – not a day goes by where he’s not making us laugh. Our kitten came to use in August… a beautiful tortie point Himalayan. Kittens are cute but so mischievous – they do outgrow it. Previous to these family members we had two cats that made the cross country trip from BC to NB but I lost one to bowel cancer and a year later another to diabetes (he didn’t respond to the insulin). One of the sad realities about have pets is outliving them. It’s a heart wrenching ordeal to lose them but no reason not to have another one down the road as they enrich one’s life.
Dogs are a bigger responsibility than cats but the rewards far outweigh the burden. If you need to be broken in to ‘petdom’, then a cat would be a good place to start. We’ve left our cats over a weekend, suppling with lots of food and water. They do their business in a litter box so no needing to take them out for potty time.
Originally, I never wanted pets… my husband did. I went along with it and I have no regrets. A cat will keep the mice away and in the country, especially when winter approaches, rodents will seek shelter and they can find their way into amazingly small spaces in your home. A dog will love you unconditionally, make you laugh, lick your face, sleep on your bed with dirty paws and keep larger rodents away such as squirrels, chipmonks and even marmots (we had one in our attached garage). These rodents can do some serious damage in your walls if they get into your home.
With all your acreage, a dog would be in heaven to live with you. I’m a firm believer in have my dogs live indoors with us. They are very social animals and love to be with their masters. They live to please you. That being said, a dog run and a warm dog house would suffice if you were wanting to be gone for a day. They also do a great job letting you know if someone comes to your house. That way, you’ll not be caught in a fuzzy red hat looking like a crazy cat lady.
I say go for it… start with a cat, fall in love with it… then get a dog and be glad you did.
N&M
Dec 20th, 2008
I am cuddling with 2 Springer Spaniels as I type! Dogs are so lovely. Lots of work, but if you love your dog, you forget about all the work because there’s all that love. Does Cam want a dog too? If so, just go for it. If your sisters can do it, so can you!
Lauren
Dec 20th, 2008
I agree with the posters who recommend starting with a cat when you’re ready for a pet. On those cold winter evenings, your cat will snuggle up purring for warmth and be a good buddy. The cat will keep your house is free of critters – even our old dumpy house cats have caught the few mice that have tried to find a warm home inside our house. You can easily leave your cat alone for a weekend with their dispenser of kibble and water fountain.
On the other hand, a good dog is a faithful friend and protector.
You are missing out on pet-love…but its not a problem unless you long for them.
Laura-Jane - Whimfield
Dec 20th, 2008
@Michelle – Lol, yes, if we’d had a dog the whole cat lady escapade could have been avoided! I think I do like the idea of starting with a cat. They seem a lot more handleable and I’ve had more experience with them. Although I’ve never trained a cat before. I know this is a silly question, but how does one get them to know where to go to the washroom? My mom has cats and she’s had them since I was a young girl, but I don’t actually remember the training process. See how I like to worry about these things?
@N&M – You are the ultimate dog goddess, sister. And I mean that in a good way. You are a wonderful dog-mother!
@Lauren – Lol, your housecats aren’t really old and dumpy, are they?
Toni
Dec 21st, 2008
You should steal your neighbours dog. She’s gorgeous.
If you’re not planning on travelling alot then I say ‘get one.’
But if you do… get a ‘real’ dog. Like your neighbours. Not a fancy named
un-dog. You know what I mean. xoxo
Toni
Dec 21st, 2008
I also <3 Cats!!
Nicole C-M
Dec 21st, 2008
I used to consider myself a cat person. I grew up with 3 cats and adored all of them. Low maintenance but lots of love.
In May 2002 I became a changed person. I adopted a 5 year old Australian Shepherd from the local SPCA. She had been abused and was terribly shy and nervous around strangers. We bonded instantly and have been inseparable ever since. She will be 12 years old this year and has been everywhere with me. When I first moved out on my own, I moved onto a 20 acre horse farm where I was responsible for taking care of the property and horses. The winters were severe and the only thing motivating me to get up in the morning was Fibi licking my face urging me to get out of bed and start the day. During this 2 year period I was also dealing with depression off and on and there was many days that I didn’t want to face the world but I did because she gave me a reason to.
Fibi travelled with me across Canada for 3 months living out of a tent and helped me to sleep more soundly in bear country and gave me constant companionship. We have lived in tiny apartments and large houses we have lived in the suburbs, the city, the country and on the road. She is the one thing in my life that is purely unconditional. This can not be said about anyone else in my life, my family, my friends and even my husband. Humans always put conditions on relationships whether or not we admit to it is a different story.
With Fibi getting older I wanted to do something to make my commitment to her permanent. I got a beautiful portrait of her tattooed on my calf so we will be together for ever. There will of course be other dogs in my life but she will always hold a special place in my heart as the dog that made me a better person.
So YES YES YES get a dog you will not regret it! Just don’t get one until you are ready and you will know when you are ready.
Laura-Jane - Whimfield
Dec 21st, 2008
@Toni – I would never do such a thing. Well, maybe I would, I have no idea. Time will tell. :P
@Nicole – Best persuasive “for” comment yet. Your dog-love shines! Thanks for sharing your story about Fibi.
Nicole
Dec 22nd, 2008
Dogs are an awesome responsibility. Cats can be, too, though there are usually a lot more independent. We have both and love them all! :-)
I have to admit that the dog, Ozzie, is my favorite. He’s like my own personal welcome wagon every night. It’s the most precious thing to know that there’s a soul in any kind of body that can’t wait for you to walk through the front door every night.
Laura-Jane - Whimfield
Dec 28th, 2008
@Nicole – Your love for your pups shines through in your blog posts, too. :)
Amy Stewart
Jan 8th, 2009
Don’t know if they have this up in your area, but you might consider fostering a dog. Meaning, you keep a dog at your house (even puppies sometimes, when they are still too young to be adopted out) until they are adopted. Beware: you must have it firmly in your head that you are NOT going to adopt any that you foster, or you will undoubtedly find yourself the new parent of a pooch. However, if you have that kind of resolve (and I dare say it is easier than you might imagine… like making your mind up about anything else serious in your life) it is so very fun and rewarding. You get your dog fix plus you get to know that you are helping to mold a dog that will eventually become someone’s very best friend– and think of the ripple effects of that! I have fostered dogs and litters of kittens and adore the process.
If you’re interested, contact your local animal shelter. You might even be able to foster farm animals. :)
Amy Stewart
Jan 8th, 2009
Btw, I love your website and am intrigued by yours and Cameron’s new lifestyle. I found you by googling “how to make rag rugs” (which I plan to start soon– GREAT instructions, btw!) and am glad I ventured further into your site.
Laura-Jane - Whimfield
Apr 19th, 2009
Great idea, Amy.
Our neighbour’s dog has stopped visiting us lately. Perhaps we will consider fostering once we’re all settled in. In a year or two or three! :)
Sal
Oct 11th, 2009
Teddy bears – no feeding, no cleaning up after, no immunizations or trips to the vet, no accidents with other outdoor life – always there to listen and snuggle.