Thursday, November 6, 2008

There is Always Room For One More - Pets in the Family

By Wendy Pan

How many times have we heard: "Mommy I want a puppy." They look up at us with those liquid eyes that widen just a little in question. They beg us silently to give them a puppy. We have used all of the excuses we can think of to say no. It is too much responsibility right now. Maybe when you are older... Pets are expensive and we just don't have the money at the moment. This is not the case at least not fully. When it comes to buying a dog or puppy you can get them for free. Yes, you heard right, free dogs and puppies. How can this be? The SPCA, the pound, animal shelters, all of these places adopt out animals in need of a home. This comes in to play especially with dogs and puppies that have been abused or abandoned. So, you can bring home that yearned for prized pet for your little tot and in return you will be helping an animal in need.

Somebody to Love

In reality most of these places are being over run by animals in need of a good home. Everywhere you look, you find ads and commercials reaching out for help from the community. These are friendly animals the only thing is that they've had a hard life. Now, while these places don't go with the free dogs and puppies angle they still offer it. Another added plus is that they also come with up to date shots. Just take a visit to your local animal shelter. There is no need for an appointment, just step on in. They will go over the process of adopting one of their animals with you. It is usually nothing more than signing a few papers. After this you can go back to the kennels and introduce yourself to the residents.

It's a Field Trip.

Try making it a family excursion. It will be easier to choose your dog or puppy if you determine how it will act around each one of the family members. At least take the prospective owner with you. He or she will enjoy picking out the puppy that he or she wants and you will be there to supervise how the two parties get along. Keep in mind that when introduced to your child it is natural for the animal to be cautious or afraid but you still want them to be friendly. If when you walk into the kennels you are met with growls are snarls, you will know right off that perhaps this isn't really the one for you. The phrase free dogs and puppies does not mean dangerous. Have a talk with your little one before you head to the shelter. Let them know that animals can be wary of you at first. Just like he or she is a little afraid of some of your friends or people he or she may not know. Explain to her that it is okay to be excited about the puppies but that she shouldn't just run right in to hug on them. A key point to look out for when choosing a puppy is energy level. Are they bouncy and playful? Did they wag their tail and try to give kisses to the child or children when they were introduced. Also keep in mind their size. If it is a slightly older dog you will have to take into account how big they are and if your child is intimidated by that size. Depending on your child's reaction will determine whether the dog is a good choice for you.

Welcome to the Family

So, if when you get faced with that question and pleading eyes next, know that it really is an easy thing to acquiesce to. As long as they understand it is their responsibility and are willing to take care of it then the only thing you need worry about is food and toys and whether or not your shoes are out of reach. Free dogs and puppies is not a fantasy that you wish of when they ask anymore and there is a dog of puppy out there that is just waiting for you to rescue it and take it home.


Wendy Pan is an accomplished niche website developer and author. To learn more about free dogs and puppies, please visit Mans Best Friend Site for current articles and discussions.

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