Have your kids been begging for a puppy? Are you wondering if it’s time to take the plunge into pet parenthood?
Don’t worry, it’s fine to be a bit hesitant. After all, living with and caring for a pet is a huge responsibility. If you don’t have the time, or space, it may not be worth it. However, if you are seriously considering getting a pup, it’s time to make sure you are ready. Check out these following 4 signs your family is ready for a puppy.
When you do get ready to jump in, be sure to look everywhere before choosing a pup and to check out their selection of puppies for sale in Maryland. This will help ensure you find the best puppy for your family.
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Your Children are Comfortable Around Dogs
One of the signs your family is ready for a puppy is comfort. If you have even one child that is scared of dogs, it’s not recommended that you become a pet owner. Getting a pet won’t cure this fear. In fact, a child that is fearful is much more likely to make a mistake around the dog.
As a result, you need to take time to build up their comfort level by visiting animal shelters or spending some time with your friend’s pets. However, if your children love dogs and are comfortable with them, this is a good sign.
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You’re Allowed to Have a Dog
If you own your home, then it’s up to you if you want to get a dog or not. However, if you live in an apartment or a rental property, there isn’t the same level of freedom. In many cases, there will be restrictions on the type and size of pets that are allowed.
It’s also a good idea to check with the local authorities to find out if there are any specific breeds that aren’t allowed in the building. For example, American pit bull terriers and Staffordshire bull terriers (along with some others) are considered illegal in Miami-Dade, Florida.
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No One in Your Family Has Pet Allergies
Another of the signs your family is ready for a puppy is a lack of pet allergies. It is estimated that 15 percent of the population of the United States is allergic to dogs and cats. The fact is, acute allergic reactions have been known to result in death and even countless visits to the emergency room all across the country.
Before you get a dog – or any other pet for that matter – be sure that everyone is tested for allergies. This is especially true for older members of your family who live in the house. In most cases, kids are going to outgrow their allergies and develop immunity against allergens.
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You Have Plenty of Free Time
Dogs, along with several other pets, require quite a bit of time from their owners. They have to be properly trained, walked, fed, socialized and washed regularly. It’s important to give everyone in your family, including the kids, certain jobs. This will ensure the new pup gets the time and attention they need and require.
The more time you spend with your pup, the more you will get to know their moods and attitudes. This will help you know when they are happy, sad, sick, etc.
As you can see, there are several signs your family is ready for a puppy. Be sure to consider these factors carefully to ensure that you are, in fact, ready for this huge responsibility.
Keep in mind, before getting a dog, be sure to learn about the different breeds and which one will be right for your family and home. This will ensure that you and your new pup are happy in the home together.