Talk me out of getting a dog (please)

[brighteyes]

A few years ago I really wanted a dog. A little dog that would stay little. I am in a townhouse with a fenced in yard. I searched for months and months. I never was a dog person don't know what came over me.

After almost buying several dogs, our neighbour's cat had just had kittens and we went to look and came home with one. I thought my son was allergic to cats, so we tried him for the night and he has been with us ever since.

He is the best thing. When I hear my friend complain about her dog chewing everything or having accidents in the house I am so glad for my slyvester.
He is just like our little dog. He rarely ever uses his litter as he prefers to go outside. I let him out to play or do his business and check for him in a little while and he comes home when I call him, and knows he will get two treats whenever he comes home. He is always in my son's room ready to go to sleep at bedtime.

I am in school now so am home earlier, but when I work am gone from 730 till at least 6. I am so glad I don't have a dog, as I would feel bad for him left alone all that time. When we come home Sylvester has been fine with us gone all day and just sleeps.

Cost wise with the vet bills the cost is probably the same as a dog, but just much easier to take care of. No walking, no housetraining, and no chewing or getting into the garbage. I know this is training, but that is expensive too.

I thought my son would bond more with a dog, but the cat just follows him everywhere.

If we go away, I just have a neighbour look in on him to feed him and cuddle him. When we went to WDW my friend just stayed here for the week to look after Sylvester so he would have someone to sleep with.

Good luck to you whatever you decide.

Stephanie

 

[minkydog]

Just Say No.

My kids begged for a dog too, but I held strong until the time was right. For all the reasons you listed you don't need a dog right now.

May I suggest you get a couple of gerbils? I know, I know...the whole looks-like-a-mouse thing. If you can get past that, gerbils make wonderful pets. They are personable and inexpensive. They are desert animals so they don't pee & poop too much, either. They are community animals, so they don't do as well alone. Just be sure you get two from the same litter, either 2 girls or 2 boys(gerbils from different litters will likely fight). DD14 has been raising these little critters since she was 5, so we have a lot of experience with them. If you have questions PM me.

Cathy

 

[brighteyes]

BTW...I got my cat when he was 7 weeks old and was fine by himself. I did have to kitty proof the house and make sure he couldn't get at any wires, etc. but just slept. Kitties sleep alot like newborns but unlike dogs don't have to be let outside for washroom time or crated to keep the safe.

Stephanie

 

[All4Nuthin]

Dogs are really great animals, and as such they deserve the best!

My dog is pretty pricey to keep around... I would say just his food, treats and supplements cost about $100 a month. He has allergies, which were more than likely brought on by eating grocery store dog food (Purina) that I thought was good... It was full of corn, which he is now very allergic too and is on a much better diet (EVO) that is good for him but much more expensive. He also has a bad back (which may also be partly because of poor nutrition) and takes Glucosamine/Chondroitin Supplement along with another one to help with pain and inflammation....

He was doing well for a while but now it seems that he also has inhaled allergies and possibly an allergy to flees... This is showing itself as a skin rash and we are working with the vet to get it under control so that he is comfortable.

Over the last 8 years he has had about 4 Emergency room visits... The most expensive was with his back when he had to stay for a couple of days and it cost about $800. Had he needed surgery, it would have been much more.

There are also his regular vet checkups. While I prefer to vaccinate lightly due to his allergies he still has to have his heartworm test, rabies and required shots by the kennel if we go on vacation.

A stay at the kennel runs us about $23 per day, including playtime/walks.

Since you work long hours you would have to either include the cost of a dog walker who would stop by every afternoon and take your dog out and for a walk, or for him to go to a doggie day care.

While our dog was a puppy (we got him at 6 months of age) he did his fair share of eating/ripping things... Even with toys in every room he did get into trouble... thankfully the furniture was old and in need of replacement when we adopted him!

There is also a kennel to buy to crate train, transport or to give your dog a safe place to go while he is getting adjusted to his new home. The bigger the dog the more expensive the crate... We have a small home so we purchased a collapsible kennel that was just over $100.

Our dog went through many doggie beds as he likes to adjust them... he does this with his mouth. Apparently his teeth are sharp and his beds only hold up to so many adjustments... Now he has a Coolaroo bed. It was about $35 and it is a keeper! That and a $45 wool army blanket does the job....

Dogs also need toys. Larger dogs also need to be kept an eye on with certain toys and need replacement toys.

A good collar and a leash is a must. Along with a dog tag. Some owners also like to have their dog chipped.

Dog need walks. If you cannot walk your dog every day, he will need a dog walker.

Dogs need to go out, sometimes at 2am - even if you have the flu. What do you do when the 8 year old and new toddler need mom and the dog has to go out NOW, it is bed or bathtime and the weather is horrible? What floor are you on? Do you bundle everyone up to take out the dog?

A lot of dogs do not do well with loud noises, like thunder and fireworks. It is hard enough to calm down a terrified dog when you are home... what happens when the dog is home alone when a storm hits... What will your neighbors think?

Dogs also need baths, they need to be brushed... then there is flea and tick season to contend with...

It isn't all bad, or we certainly would not have one as part of our family, but a dog does become a family member. He has feelings and his own personality... Some need constant attention, others are more loners but still need some love, time and attention. They cannot feed themselves, toilet themselves, etc. They do get sick, throw up, have intestinal illnesses that may cause messy accidents... they have gas and if you can brush their teeth, that will save you on the dental bills...

If you and your son want something furry, maybe something that you can put in a cage like a hamster, a mouse, rat or guinea pig would work out better?

Take care.

 

[bumbershoot]

Cat? Well, many of my points are still the same.

We adopted our cat from a friend when we were engaged. We were her 4th or 5th home, because although she was a wonderful little thing, she put out this vibe that caused her to be abused by other cats. It was really weird; each home had multiple cats, and each home they had to lock her away to protect her until they could find another home.

Well, she had issues. When we got back from our honeymoon I was newly pregnant, and instantly developed serious problems with the whole dirty butt thing. I couldn't deal with her except for cutting her nails until DS was around 1. Otherwise I just wanted to almost throw up when I thought of her bottom setting on our furniture, and my son being on that cushion next.

So the dirty butt thing is the same with a cat.

Then, we have finally figured out, she had a vaccine reaction, and developed a HUGE skin reaction. Which she then would lick, and it got massively infected, then she would lick and bite it more, and so on. This was during the time I couldn't deal with her, so I had to rely on DH for her care, and he didn't do that great of a job. You would be the go-to person for something like this, so if you had some sort of weird reaction after adopting a new baby and protecting the infant, it would be hard for you.

But I think I'm a unique freak in that respect, b/c I have never heard of someone who actually loves animals and WANTED the animal, to have such an extreme reaction.

This infection cost money. money we didn't have. The normal vet route didn't work; they couldn't figure out the problem. We finally had to take her to a $$$$ holistic vet, and the stuff he sold us did work, but it was $$$. But it was also behavioural, and since she was a stressed cat b/c of her nature and b/c of this big sore on her leg, it took quite a lot of our attention.

Then, ultimately, we had to keep her in her own room, because the "kick me" sign she seemed to have on her back was being "read" by our son. She didn't fight back, ever (except one time with me while cutting her nails), so she could have been hurt by my son. So she had her room. And then the behaviour got worse.

Then we moved to a new place and it was going to be good, then our landlady (same as at our apartment) told us she had forgotten she didn't want pets at the townhouse, and then we were REALLY stuck. Then she got very sick one day while we were away, DH had to come back anyway b/c his dad was sick as well, and while he was cleaning up her massive mess, she ran away. He didn't realize it b/c he was being called by his mom and dad to get over to the hospital, and was incredibly stressed, and despite signs, house-to-house search, and multiple visits to the local shelter, we never saw her again.


So....dirty butt, expensive vet bills possibly, time and attention possibly, and they still do die (or run away) before you want them to.

And that's without mentioning the asthma attack I had the second night we had the cat...before I was ever diagnosed with asthma. I was always allergic, but she threw me into a new level of reactions to dander (and I never would have expected it).

 

[brighteyes]

Cat? Well, many of my points are still the same.

We adopted our cat from a friend when we were engaged. We were her 4th or 5th home, because although she was a wonderful little thing, she put out this vibe that caused her to be abused by other cats. It was really weird; each home had multiple cats, and each home they had to lock her away to protect her until they could find another home.

Well, she had issues. When we got back from our honeymoon I was newly pregnant, and instantly developed serious problems with the whole dirty butt thing. I couldn't deal with her except for cutting her nails until DS was around 1. Otherwise I just wanted to almost throw up when I thought of her bottom setting on our furniture, and my son being on that cushion next.

So the dirty butt thing is the same with a cat.

Then, we have finally figured out, she had a vaccine reaction, and developed a HUGE skin reaction. Which she then would lick, and it got massively infected, then she would lick and bite it more, and so on. This was during the time I couldn't deal with her, so I had to rely on DH for her care, and he didn't do that great of a job. You would be the go-to person for something like this, so if you had some sort of weird reaction after adopting a new baby and protecting the infant, it would be hard for you.

But I think I'm a unique freak in that respect, b/c I have never heard of someone who actually loves animals and WANTED the animal, to have such an extreme reaction.

This infection cost money. money we didn't have. The normal vet route didn't work; they couldn't figure out the problem. We finally had to take her to a $$$$ holistic vet, and the stuff he sold us did work, but it was $$$. But it was also behavioural, and since she was a stressed cat b/c of her nature and b/c of this big sore on her leg, it took quite a lot of our attention.

Then, ultimately, we had to keep her in her own room, because the "kick me" sign she seemed to have on her back was being "read" by our son. She didn't fight back, ever (except one time with me while cutting her nails), so she could have been hurt by my son. So she had her room. And then the behaviour got worse.

Then we moved to a new place and it was going to be good, then our landlady (same as at our apartment) told us she had forgotten she didn't want pets at the townhouse, and then we were REALLY stuck. Then she got very sick one day while we were away, DH had to come back anyway b/c his dad was sick as well, and while he was cleaning up her massive mess, she ran away. He didn't realize it b/c he was being called by his mom and dad to get over to the hospital, and was incredibly stressed, and despite signs, house-to-house search, and multiple visits to the local shelter, we never saw her again.


So....dirty butt, expensive vet bills possibly, time and attention possibly, and they still do die (or run away) before you want them to.

And that's without mentioning the asthma attack I had the second night we had the cat...before I was ever diagnosed with asthma. I was always allergic, but she threw me into a new level of reactions to dander (and I never would have expected it).

Awww... I am so sorry for you, what a hard time. It is true, things like this can happen. I don't know how I would have coped with all of this. We were lucky.

Stephanie

 

[famofsix]

As far as the dog, consider helping out a friend once in awhile who has a dog (dog sitting) when you are home.

That should take care of the dog itch.

 

[CathrynRose]

In your situation, I would not get a dog. I don't mean to be unkind, but it's not fair to the dog at this stage in your life.

.

I agree - 100%.

Your dog wants to be part of the pack, with the family. To be gone that many hours a day just isnt fair to that animal. My dog literally follows us from room to room. He wants to BE with us.

Get a cat. They can handle be alone a lot longer.

 

[Shmily1]

Poop in the yard...Poop in the yard...Poop in the yard...Poop in the yard...

There... that should talk you right out of it!!!

 

[unbroken chain]

I agree, a dog is not for you. You can't leave a dog alone for 12 hours. It won't work.

A cat would be perfect! They are happy to be alone all day. They never have to go outside. They don't bark and annoy your neighbors while you are gone. They are 100% accurate about using the litter box and can be trained pretty much immediately to use one. I have gone away for 2 days, leaving out food and water, and they're fine. You could even get 2 cats to keep each other company. Find a brother and sister or 2 that have already lived together so you know they get along if you go that route.

Tell the shelter or rescue organization that the number one thing you are looking for is a good personality.

The only thing that cats do that might drive you nuts is to scratch up your furniture. I would never declaw a cat, but my local rescue organization often has already declawed cats for adoption. Only get a declawed cat if you are sure it will never go outside though.

 

[MaryKLady]

Poop in the yard...Poop in the yard...Poop in the yard...Poop in the yard...

There... that should talk you right out of it!!!

Have you been talking to my DH?

Could your son volunteer at the local shelter? I'm sure they would like having him to give the animals some attention. My DD 4 can't wait until she's old enough to go "pet all the puppies and kitties".

 

[InstImpres]

I did not get to read the whole thread, so I apologize in advance if it has been said already. My DD is 12 and has been asking for a dog for about 5 years. I let her "make the decision" each time not to get one. I tell her if at the end of 2 weeks, she still wants a dog, we'll go look into.

- I wake her early to take the dog for a walk
- When we are out and she asks to stay somewhere longer, I say we need to leave now and go let the dog out
- I make sure to talk about a vacation and figure out what to do with the dog
etc.

I understand there are great parts to a pet but I like the OP don't have a life that fits a dog. Usually by about 3 days into this DD says never mind. No guilt for me!

 

[Irish9697]

Well, I'm a single mom to an 8 year old son, as well, and we, too, are gone most weekdays because of work and activities 7:30-6:30-7. We've fought the dog itch many times ourselves.

But, admittedly, our situation is a little different...I not only have my 8 year old son, but also a 7 year old daughter. We don't rent, though, so landlord's rules aren't an issue for us. And, we are fortunate to own a very large house (3000 sq. ft.).

We do have (I'm almost embarrassed to admit this!!) 5 cats!! And, they are all indoor! But, they are each one perfect, amazing and so much fun. Each in their own way. We have several "generations" of cats--2 that are 10 years old that I've had just as long. A "middle cat," if you will, that is 5 that we got as a baby. And, finally, the two "babies" who are 1.5--we got them at 4 days old as a part of a orphaned litter of kittens that we fostered/nursed, so they are truly our babies. Anyway, the oldest two are the best of pals and perfect companions for each other. The babies are almost twins...they're always together. And, the middle one is bonded with both pairs.

My point, if you must get a pet that is furry and gives you the feeling of companionship...I just wanted to suggest that if you go the cat route...think about 2 not just 1. They don't require any more space...and generally will share a food dish and litterbox. They will have each other in your absence and will provide you with hours of love and comfort when you are home.

 

[LSchrow]

we have a dog & 3 cats (btw, i honestly can't say one is better than the other ~ they are all wonderful family members).
as much as i love dogs, i'm sure you understand that your situation wouldn't be fair to the dog or yourselves.
however, a cat is soooo much easier to take care of. dogs are pack animals, & need a lot more time & attention than a cat, but both are equally loving. you can leave dry food & water out for a cat, & it'll be fine all day. cats don't need toys, the "world" is its toys: pieces of lint, reflections off a watch (get a laser pointer & shine it on the wall or floor for some real fun ), the plastic ring from a milk jug, anything remotely shaped like a ball, their own tail, any little bug, a bit of yarn, the list goes on...
cats are very inquisitive & playful by nature. they are easily trained, "self-cleaning", & normally very devoted (one of our cats, jack, sleeps with one paw on top of my hands, one paw underneath, his nose to mine every night ~ he can't sleep without touching me ). my kids, as well as myself, grew up with cats, & were taught to respect our pets as living, breathing family members, not toys (absolutely no tail-pulling, grabbing, etc)
in general, cats are very easy to train also.
i would suggest getting a few books from the library for you & your DS to read together. be prepared with a litterbox & litter (personally, i am against cats being outdoors: they can very easily get hurt and/or pick up diseases & fleas). you will also need food & water dishes, as well as dry and/or canned food. consider if you want a kitten or older cat (i would recommend no less than 6 mths to 1-2 year olds so they would be litter trained, neutered (extremelly important), & you can see its personality. very young kittens can get into too much trouble if left by itself for too long ). take your time when choosing; look for a shelter that is clean & takes care of its charges, ask around for recommendations. both you & your son should "play" with a few cats before you decide (make sure the cat's eyes are clear, the fur clean without mats).

a pet can make a world of difference in a child's life: they learn responsibility & caring, & in return get a buddy who unconditionally loves them (even when it seems the world has turned against them ), listens to their hopes, dreams, & fears withut judging, & always has time for their best friend.
good luck with your decision

 

[cnj]

They poop, pee, and bark.

 

[LSchrow]

They poop, pee, and bark.

yeah, but kids do 2 out of those 3, plus a lot worse & we still love them

 

[pixiewings71]

They also love you unconditionally.

We have 2 kids, 2 cats and 2 dogs. We work full time and are gone during the day BUT my DBF has an awesome job and can TAKE the dogs with him to work!!!!! We got our DD8 a puppy for her birthday/Christmas this year. She's been asking for 3 years for her own dog, we talked and talked and talked about the responsibility and Jade is actually quite good about it. She cleans up after BOTH dogs, she takes care of her puppy and she loves them both. Makes sure they both have food and water, plays with them, trains her pup, she's really amazing. We resisted and resisted but when we saw her with my sister's mini Dauschaund we knew we were lost so we got her one of her own. Autumn is still a puppy, she's 3 1/2 months old. When we are gone our 3 y.o. dog is out in the dog run (covered and as long as the house/yard) unless he's with Daddy at work. After Autumn has her last set of shots she will either go to work with Daddy or be out with the "big" dog. lol Currently we keep her in our bathroom with tons of toys and puppy pads, it's not really a bathroom anymore...it's more like a dog room. LOL That said, dogs are a big responsibility, they are pack animals and they need their packs. When we go on vacation my oldest DD20 stays with the dogs or takes them to her apt. Occasionally they are boarded. It doesn't sound like a dog is the best solution for your pet desire.

Our cats are sisters, they are just about 3 years old. They are outside unless we are home, then they come and go as they please. We have 2 litter boxes and they are scooped every other day, well really every Tues, Thurs and Sun. We've had our girls since they were about 10 weeks old, no problems with litter box use, they do a good job with that. I think in your situation a cat would work. They don't mind being alone, in fact they rather enjoy it.

Another option is a small caged animal. I don't recommend hamsters, they tend to bite, mice will get out and then you have a mouse problem in your apt. Gerbils, rabbits, guinea pigs and rats are my cages choices. They are fun, personable and loving. At least IME they are. Out of those my faves are rats....I have had many pet rats, they are amazing pets. Another option is fish, you can't cuddle with fish but they are neat to watch. We also have 1 75 gallon freshwater planted tank, 1 75 gallon saltwater reef tank and 1 small tank with a Betta. I guess you could say we are animal lovers.

good luck with your quest for a family pet, and Thank YOU for taking the time to ask what would be best for you. No matter what pet you go with use petfinder.com to see what you can find for adoption, sometimes adopted pets are the best pets ever!

 

[bigbabyblues]

I think a cat would be a good pet for you!

 

[cnj]

Let me rephrase: they poop, pee, and bark forever. With a kid, you only have to pick up the poop and pee for 2 years. With a dog, it is more like 14. Plus, it is smelly.

 

[sarahlovesmickey]

I agree that a dog doesn't sound right for you at this point in your life. BUT, I think that a cat may suit you both fine. A cat can stay alone for 12 hours, although be prepared to be loved when you get home!! They are clean and make great companions. We love our little kitty...she is great with our kids, loves to be loved, and most of all, doesn't mind if we are gone all day.