DogBoston’s Dog Blog

Dogs are not an iPod, a video game system, or a new jacket that you can put away as soon as you are bored with it. And the holiday season is notorious for bringing about that joyous spirit in people that sometimes manifests itself into an impulse purchase of a new pet.

Dogs are a long term commitment that should be carefully researched and considered before buying one for yourself. NEVER give a dog as a gift, it should be done knowing your preferences, long term goals (are they moving next year?), and whether or not allergies might be an issue. Have a life partner?  Check with them too!  Have a landlord? Check with them too.

College students, given their transient and perhaps not yet responsible status in life, should not be encouraged to get a dog until their life settles down a little bit.

“Impulsive buys are the cause of most animals having to be turned into the pounds and animal shelters,” said Lt. Alan Borgal of the Animal Rescue League of Boston. “You have to check with your family and owner of the house first to see if you can keep the dog before purchasing it.”

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