Dog for Pet What to Consider

Dear Dr. Dave and Dr. Dee,

Our two children, ages 3 and 5, have been begging for a dog. Is this a good age for kids to start taking care of a pet?

Signed,

Considering a dog

Dear Considering a dog,

Owning a dog, or any pet, is a big responsibility for the entire family. Although young children will be eager to care for their dog, it will be the parents who will often end up doing most of the work. The real question is, are you ready?

Below is a list of 11 factors that the American Kennel Club (www.akc.org) recommends reviewing before buying a dog:

Remember that owning a dog is a lifelong commitment with a variety of responsibilities; if you cannot meet those responsibilities, neither you nor your dog will be happy. Consider the following list carefully, and honestly evaluate your lifestyle, your home, and your pocketbook before you decide that you really want a dog.

1. Food

In addition to your dog's meals, you'll want to supply occasional healthy treats. You may need to feed a special diet for puppies, allergies, weight management, illnesses, older dogs. You'll need to train your dog not to beg for people food, and your family not to give in to those pleading puppy eyes.

2. Shelter

For indoor dogs, you'll need a crate or other confined area to protect the dog and your belongings at night or when you're away. You'll want to keep a supply of carpet cleaner on hand, and provide a bed or mat. Gates to keep the dog out of certain rooms can also be helpful.

Outdoor dogs must have a fenced yard or kennel run. They will need a sheltered spot so they can stay out of the heat in summer, the cold in winter, and the rain. You'll need to install creative fencing to protect your garden, and to protect the dog from toxic plants. You will probably have to do some obedience training to prevent nuisance barking. You'll need a pooper-scooper to keep your yard clean.

3. Water

Fresh water must be available at all times.

4. Exercise

Your dog will need a couple of daily walks or romps in the yard. You'll have to provide a leash, a pooper-scooper, and balls or flying discs to play with. You'll need an umbrella, and dog sweaters or booties for small or delicate dogs in inclement weather.

5. Training

House training is first. A crate is useful, but stock up on carpet cleaner and deodorizer and some puppy training pads.

Teaching basic good manners requires time and dedication. You may want to join a Puppy or CGC class. Advanced classes or behavioral training may be required for more difficult or spirited dogs.

You must be prepared to control your dog's behavior at home, with guests, in the park, around the neighborhood, at the vet's office--at all times.

6. Health Care

Your dog will need regular checkups, vaccinations and dental care. You must also be prepared to care for your dog during illnesses or after accidents--such as a sprain, a torn paw pad, consumption of a stuffed animal, or poisoning. Some dogs develop chronic diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, or hip dysplasia; older dogs also require additional care. The AKC Pet Healthcare Plan available in all 50 states, can help you to budget sensibly and responsibly for the lifelong health care needs of your dog.

7. Grooming

You'll need equipment such as a tub, brush, comb, shaver or nail clippers. Dogs with profuse or sculpted coats may require professional grooming.

8. Play

You can give your dog safe stuffed and rubber toys, bones, balls and other chewies. You'll need to train the dog to distinguish its toys from your possessions.

9. Companionship

Your dog needs your attention when you're home, and a secure place to stay when you're away.

Some dogs require training to alleviate separation anxiety in their owner's absence.

You'll need a pet sitter or a good boarding kennel if you go away for an extended period of time.

10. Forgiveness

Your dog won't apologize for having house training accidents, for digging, for barking, for chewing - for being a dog. You'll have to forgive him his "mistakes" anyway.

11. Devotion

Don't worry. You'll get it all back.

For more information about dogs, see www.akc.org