If you are thinking about adding a puppy to your family take a moment and think about it. Liza Chelenza has the pros and cons of having a puppy in this edition of Pet Pointers.
Most people have felt the urge to scoop up a puppy and bring home your new best friend but before you give in to that tug on your heart string remember a puppy will tug on your pant leg, your patience and your wallet.
First things first, ask yourself, can you really afford to care for a puppy and eventually a dog? A puppy will have to see a vet 3 to 4 times in their first year of life for vaccines, neutering and very likely some type of injury or health scare, all together you are probably looking at a cost of about $1000 for the first year and a minimum of $200 every year after that for basic vet care.
Puppies need training, a lot of training -- potty training, obedience training and basic training. An untrained pooch can be a serious problem. Nipping, food aggression and poor potty habits are the top reasons dogs less than a year old are surrendered.
Finally ask yourself these questions, do you have the patience and the energy to care for a puppy and does a puppy fit into your long term plans? A puppy needs to be walked and played with every day. They rarely sleep thru the night and will likely urinate, defecate and vomit on you, on your bed, in your shoes and when you are late for work.
If you understand all of these aspects to raising a puppy you are off to a good start but you are never really ready for vomit in your shoes.
Whether you choose an adult animal or a youngster remember pets are part of your family and it is up to us to take care of them properly. Be sure you can give them the time they need before you bring them home.