Getting a dog

vansboy

Worst bit is when they die.

Really upset me when our first one, surprisingly, died - better than a long illness, though, I suppose.

The second one had to be put to sleep, I was there with him when the vet gave the injections, some comfort for us both, as I was able to hold him while the vet helped him on his way.

Then finding somewhere to bury them was, at first, really hard. They're now at rest in the cemetry http://www.hularescue.org.

Still can't bring myself to get another - running out of excuses not too, but I'm probaly being too selfish, to appreciate all the good that comes before the bad bit!!

& think I'd consider a rescue dog if I do!!

VB

tiff

I was the opposite vansboy, I couldnt live without my dog. It was probably just the usual grieving process, but I went and got another dog 5 days later. I still think about my old dog and miss him a lot.

vansboy

tiff wrote: »

I was the opposite vansboy, I couldnt live without my dog. It was probably just the usual grieving process, but I went and got another dog 5 days later. I still think about my old dog and miss him a lot.

I know what you mean - that's what I did, when we got the second one - but not as quick as you did!

Still dream of one or the other, most nights, as well as loads of pictures n stuff - one in my wallet of my first one!!

VB

vics_1982

Firefly wrote: »

No reputable breeder would allow two pups from the same litter to go to the same home either! Obviously not all breeders are as thorough in their investigations and home checks as others, but those that take more care are more likely to always be there for support.

I disagree, are your two springers working dogs?
We got two springers from a superb breeder for working / hunting / field dogs and he was more than happy for two to come to us (when i lived at home) as he knew that the would continue working and have loads of land to work. He got photos and visits from us all the time and we are still great friends

poppycracker

Bichons are great if you're working, my Mum has two and they're more than happy to keep the sofa warm while she's out! They don't shed but they take a lot of brushing and bathing as they can bring some amazing plant life home in their hair after a walk....:eek:

Why not consider something like a retired greyhound? Apparently, they don't need much exercise and an older dog will (IMO) adapt quicker and be less excitable.......except collies who are excitable whatever age they are!

Also, if you have close neighbours, you could ask if one of them would be able to let the dog out at lunchtime or whenever.

I did have another tip, but I've forgotten it.... if I remember I'll edit this!

asharon

I would say rescue one. They are older so could cope with the five hours. They can go for longer walks, as puppies need time for their bones to develop.

Catzrool

Hello all, I'm a dog walker by profession and would say that the calmest dogs are the sighthounds, having 1 myself I might be a bit biased but I also have a rottie and a collie. I agree about providing a home for a rescue, there are so many unwanted dogs out there that deserve a second chance. If you do decide on a sighthound they can live with cats quite happily, ours has 4 to contend with and he came straight off the racing track at Oxford!

charlies_mum

asharon wrote: »

I would say rescue one. They are older so could cope with the five hours. They can go for longer walks, as puppies need time for their bones to develop.

Just a word of caution- I took a rescue dog (border collie) and found out after a few months that he had real behavioural problems. He suffers from nervous aggression and we spent a fortune on sessions with a behavioural specialist.

He is fine with me, but doesn't like men and can be aggressive towards other dogs. We have a grandchild due in August, and I will never be able to trust him with her, and will have to make sure he is in another room when she is here.

Lots of rescue dogs are fine, I was obviously unlucky, but if you are considering a rescue dog, find out as much as you can about it.

I would also second what others have said about your choice of dog - if you have never had one before, don't have a border collie unless you are able to spend lots of time with it.

pippa_r

I wouldn't be without my dogs but would advise you to not to get one unless you are absolutely sure. They take a lot of time and commitment but can reward you with endless joy. However, if you get one you must be prepared to look after it for maybe up to 18 years which is a long time to care for it if you decide you have made a mistake.

Why not visit your local RSPCA or dogs home and have a chat with the staff there. It may help to talk things over with people who see both sides.

If you do get one, I hope you have as much happiness as I have with mine.

getcarter

Well, I've done it, got a rescue dog, about a year old, he's GSD cross and he's lovely, the only thing we have problems with is he keeps trying to chew the kids!

Carter