Right Breed For Me? (continued)

One of the early questions you should ask yourself, are you willing to put the time in to being a good Saint Bernard Mom or Dad? Too many people get a puppy and once that first year is past, they lose interest. I never agree with people who say, "I waited to get a puppy till I thought the kids were old enough to take on the responsibility of taking care of a pet." Who are you kidding? the responsibility of this lies with an adult and if you are not willing to take on that commitment yourself, then don't. It is a commitment and it is a commitment for life. The reality is being a pet owner makes you responsible for the well being of that ball of fluff for its life. In ways you could compare it to taking care of an infant, one that never grow up and that will always be dependent upon you.

It will be your responsibility to feed them, keep them healthy with vaccinations and medical care when necessary, grooming, exercise, training, provide shelter, and love. You have to keep in mind that this beautiful domesticated animal cannot do these things for themselves. They look to us for all of this, and that need is there for their entire life. Look around your neighborhood, too many dogs are relegated to a backyard. I see it in my own neighborhood where these dog never leave their yards. Some of them are nuisances with barking. With so many of these dogs, that bark is a cry for attention. I often ask myself, "Why do they have a dog?" I say if you have made the choice to have a dog, then make the choice to have them be part of your life. Your life will be that much richer because of the choice you made.

BRANDYKEGS will have additional information on tommorow's post.