Quote:
Originally Posted by MSNPA
Every now and then I so want to adopt a dog. The problem is, though I love all animals, I have always been a cat person. This said I am always visiting places where dogs are brought to be adopted. This past Saturday we were at PETCO and my husband and I were drawn to a 9 month old mix. We are still considering adopting her as she is still available. Any advice? Will my cats disown me? Knowing nothing about dog training will I be able to handle all that needs to be done? I need to make a decision soon one way or another.
Thanks in advance for any comments.
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Oh, my favourite topic .. dogs!
MSNPA, yes, definitely, you will be able to handle all that needs to be done. You would make a great dog owner. I would love to see you adopt the rescue puppy. Dogs are such a constant source of love ... I'm sure you would be so happy with your decision.
Dogs are very easy to have as pets as long as you are firm, fair and calm (which I know you are). And above all, you have to be consistent with your dog training. Dogs respect boundaries, they just have to be gently educated to know your rules. For instance, we don't allow the dogs in the room when we're eating meals. Our ten pound dog and our cat are allowed on the bed but our large dog is not.
Pehaps the nine-month old puppy has had previous experience with cats. The adoption people should be able to tell you that, or they could introduce the dog to a couple of cats in their shelter and see the reaction. I wouldn't get an aggressive hyper-active dog around old cats. But most dogs are pretty good around family cats.
You can bet that your cats may be a bit miffed if you introduce a puppy. But they'll adjust after a week or two. I would keep the dog on a leash for a few days when around the cats so the cats don't have to be afraid. And so the dog knows it is unacceptable to chase the cats.
We adopted a two-year old rescue in April. Lolli-Pup who weighs 63 lbs and is very playful. We have a 17 year old Himalayan cat. Lolli obviously had been around cats previously and was very respectful of the cat. At first the old cat wasn't wild about the new dog. Now they get along perfectly. They sleep curled up together in the back seat when we travel.
I think it would be a wonderful thing if you adopted the nine-month old resue and that it would bring you much joy. And I'd be happy to give you my e-mail address if you have any questions or training issues.
Best of luck with your decision.