Having a dog is not for everyone. Some people are more of the snake or maybe turtle variety. Some can’t stand the way a wet dog smells, or can’t deal with the shedding or sometimes pointless barking of man’s famous “best friend.” There are also some that desperately want a dog but the living arrangement will not allow it at this moment. However, if you have discovered that you have a thing for the wet nosed and you have the means to provide for them, there are several options of how to attain this bundle of fur. You could spend hundreds of dollars on a pooch that is pure bred; you can make sure that he or she comes with all of their shots and potty-trained. You could also see if anyone has had any pups that they want to take off their hands, but this is less likely to find in an urban area.
All of the options above suggest ways that many people become dog owners except for the one that is most logical – adoption. There are always mixed breeds that end up without a home, so you decide to go to your local animal shelter in person. There are a lot of pictures online and ways to view cute pups that you’re interested in, but there won’t be connection unless you go. Try to find the closest shelter near you and then make sure to do your homework on them to make sure you don’t get an emotionally or physically damaged new member of the family. Keep in mind that all dogs have their own character though.
Look online, but finally start calling to get the information you need. Ask them what the animals are fed, how they’re kept in restraint or cages, what shots they come with and their work out schedules. Ask about any discipline procedures they may have, because dogs remember being disciplined and you don’t want to risk making a movement that reminds them of a not-so-good time. Conversely, if you like their procedures, you can continue to do them in the same fashion as the shelter has. They may think you’re going overboard but you want a healthy companion. They may even tell you, “I can’t tell you that.” That’s fine. It gives you more reasons to call another shelter that will or go see for yourself.
When you come to the doogie commune, prepare yourself for the smell. You can’t do anything about it, so any air that you Febreeze will smell like crap and Febreeze. Try to find the youngest dogs they have. It is safer to know that you will be providing most of this animal’s memories and care. Hopefully, you will find a puppy or two that you like. Some shelters will let you give a snack. You may even discover that a bond has formed within minutes of interacting. One of the puppies eyes that you have gushed over are almond shaped with big and brown nickel sized irises, this is the girl. The other has a Pit-bull face with a brown brindle coat, and acts like he’s ignoring you by putting his back towards you. You want them both, but you already have a small dog and tons of things to do. It’s okay, discuss it with yourself.
Leave the room and look at other dogs, older dogs. Continue to circle the area and come back to the girl, who you’ve already named Arlynne. Decide that the boy will be named Dynamite, after the character “Black Dynamite,” for his tough appearance, and ask the attendant ,“how much?” She will tell you, “42 dollars for both German Shepherd mixed puppies, and discounted shot rates, spay and neutering at Springlake Animal Clinic. They are brother and sister. I saw you playing with them. Cash or Credit?”