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It was Christmas, the snow was falling softly, and the sleigh bells were echoing in the distance. We were standing in front of the sign which said, “Puppies in need of a home ”. My son looked up at me through his twinkling eyes and asked: ‘Mummy, can we have a puppy for Christmas? Please, I would love a puppy.’
I replied: ‘Yes, so would I but first we have to think of what it really means to look after a pet’
Over 45 years ago we first heard ‘A dog is for life, not just for Christmas’ and if I had a mince pie for every time a child said ‘I’ll walk it mummy I promise!’, I would resemble Santa.
‘It’s not just about the walking and the playing, there are lots of things to consider’
‘Like what, mummy?’
‘Well, there is the food, the bedding and toys as well as the lead. We also need to make sure they stay fit and well so they need to be vaccinated. Then there is pet insurance to cover the vet’s fees if they are ill and they need care and treatment’
My son, looked down and peered up at me, with his own big puppy eyes, trying to convince me otherwise.
‘Sorry darling, deciding to home a puppy is not a decision we can take lightly. I know they are cute, look at those doleful, hazelnut eyes peering out at us but I’m not sure we can afford to look after him properly’.
I sighed, as I knew that my son would love a dog for company, but I also realised we needed to be prepared for the full commitment of rehoming a dog including the potential expense. A puppy provides joy and happiness, but it is also a long-term commitment. Therefore, it is important that we fully understand and research the likely and potential health challenges of a pet, and also a particular breed. A breed may be popular and be great for Instagram but may come with vulnerabilities or a propensity for particular problems.
Many veterinary practices are happy to help with research or to discuss the great characteristics and also possible issues with a breed or even to help decide if a dog, cat, rabbit or degu are the best pet for your family. before purchasing any animal that you think about the costs. This helps owners to make the right decision and be prepared for that rewarding but long term commitment. While situations can change and the best plans do not always pan out, starting out informed and prepared is always a good foundation. It is also helpful to build a relationship with a veterinary practice so you register with a practice that is a good fit and where owner and practice work together to look after a pet.
Our Christmas compromise – we will continue our research over the Christmas yule log and make a truly informed decision on whether we can offer a good home to a pet in 2025.
