Under pressure - again. HELP!

[krhall]

Well it seems like I go from one issue to another, started the weekend with birthday present issues, now sorted.

Now all three of them are on at me to get a dog.........

I always wanted one as a kid, but was never allowed one and now it seems the tables have turned and I am the one saying no. I would still love one but the practicalities of picking crap up and being tied down are the bits that worry me.

So should I give in to them and be the best daddy in the world? If so what dog would be appropriate? Perhaps a rescued dog or retired greyhound.

[shonadoll]

As long as you realise they won't walk it, and you have someone that can let it out during the day, then go for it.

I work in a vets and we very often hear of dogs up for rehoming, worth asking at your local vets.

It is a tie though - I only work 2 days a week and luckily have the best neighbour who comes in at lunchtime both days to let them out, otherwise I'd be at least a tenner a day in dogwalker fees.

Also, insurance, food, vaccinations etc- it's the gift that keeps on costing....saying that I wouldn't be without my 2 dogs, but the kids do cuddling and little else with them, the novelty soon wears off.

[5tu]

Get them a dog stop being a meanie - I begged my parents for one when I was a kid and when the finally gave in he was my best mate for 16 years. Taught me many responsibilities of life and gave my parents peace and quiet when I went out with him on our 'adventures'

[the_lone_wolf]

Perhaps a rescued dog

iirc you have a young child? if so i'd say be VERY wary of getting a rescue dog unless you can be absolutely 100% sure of it's past

we have a rescue border collie and although she's the softest most loving dog you could want, she will literally rip the bristles out of a broomstick, on sight, as if she has to kill it before it kills her - we have no idea why - if your kid were to get caught up in a past problem in a dog's psyche it could end very badly:(

other questions to ask yourself are things like "have any of us got experience handling dogs" - "can we afford the costs" (something like £10,000 over the dog's lifetime)

i'm not trying to put you off, i grew up with ten salukis, a spaniel, a golden retreiver, a staffie and now our collie, i've not been without a dog for more than a few months, and it's great, but it's a responsibility that shouldn't be taken lightly

if you do decide to get a dog, make sure you are all agreed on the rules before you go ahead, personally it drives me up the wall to see dogs jumping on the sofa, begging for food etc etc, if you don't have experience training a dog get help from a professional, as it's much easier to teach good habits than undo bad ones, and both you and the dog will be happier when you understand what each other wants

[Baph]

Now then, I had dogs as I grew up... 2, at separate times.

The last dog that we had, was MY dog, and it was best for him that he be put down. I was 14 at the time, and refused to let my parents do it. He was my dog & it was clearly my responsibility.

It was also the worst moment of my life.

You need to make sure someone in your family can cope with doing that. Being so emotionally close to something, but knowing that it's best to let it die.

That said, I'd love to have a dog, and I always mess about saying we have to get one, but the practicalities (mainly cost) keep me from getting one.

If you can afford it, and look after it properly, cave in & be the best dad in the world. If not, the best thing for your family (and the dog you may/may not get) would be to keep your foot firmly on the ground.

[krhall]

I'm happy to do the exercise bit as I run regularly, so happy to do that.

They want a puppy (obviously), but a retired greyhound would be a much nicer thing to do and from what I can make of it they are easy to care for in terms of food etc.

Some sites say they are cool with kids others not so, I just can't work it out.

[the_lone_wolf]

Some sites say they are cool with kids others not so, I just can't work it out.

it will depend entirely on the individual dog, that's why you have to be extremely careful - as long as you keep an eye on them both and don't leave them alone together the chances of anything too bad happening are reduced, but it all depends on the personality of the dog and the child tbh...

[krhall]

Hmmmmm, there are a lot of youngish greyhounds that are ex-racers which apparently don't get any kind of abuse as it is counter-productive to training. Might be an idea?

[the_lone_wolf]

see this, as a breed they're generally very good pets:

http://www.dogstrust.org.uk/VirtualContent/107053/49_greysandlurch.pdf

personally, i'd much rather adopt a dog that needs it than get a puppy what with so many dogs abandoned, mis-treated etc etc

[mrs cuffy]

Go for it, dogs are great company, hard work but over all worth it.
If you have no other pets then I would go for a rescue one, just remember they are a mans best friend :D

[stevie]

I would try either the dogs trust,your local RSPCA re homing center or Battersea dogs home as you live in that area, any of these will be able to help you make the right choice. I have 3 rescue dogs,10,5& 4 years. I have to say that they are the best thing that I've ever done and wouldn't be without them.:p:p

[Jayneflakes]

Having pets as a child was the one comfort I had at times, I am sure that your family is very happy, in which case a dog will bring a lot of love in with it.

For me having a dog was a chance to get away from my parents for long walks, it taught me responsibility to another life form, but it broke my heart when my Mother had both of my dogs put to sleep, claiming that they had bitten people.

To have a dog, you must treat them with kindness and be consistent, just like being a parent really. Having a dog could be a wonderful thing for you kids and could help them to grow up to be good pet owners them selves. Teach them how to raise an animal and then allow them to love the animal. There will be times when you will have to clean up poop, but all animals do that. Just dig a dog latrine in the garden and make it a weekly task for the kids to pick up the turd with a spade and deposite in the latrine.

Also, getting out for a walk each day is not only good for the dog, but good for you too. Healthy exercise makes a healthy soul.

Good luck and choose wisely, I last had a Blue Merle Collie resuce and he was a real gem, but being a working dog, needed a good long run each day just to stop him from getting bored. A good excuse to train him to run along side the mountain bike. As a family dog, maybe something small and not too excitable would be better than a Grey hound?

Hugs

[krhall]

Thanks all not sure - let the battle commence.

[maviczap]

Who's going to walk it? I'm facing similar pressure, but I've dug my heels in and said no. The kids wanted a rabbit, so my wife got one onthe understanding the kids would look afte it. Didn't happen and now I clean it out & feed it. Hence why I've said no.

But we did have a Greyhound and so did my mum and Dad, all ex racers. Best dog we ever had, doesn't need much more than 20mins walk twice a day. Then they sleep all day long!!!!!!

My folks had loads of different dogs and these were the least trouble, except for when they see squirrels & cats, then they revert to type! Very child friendly too.

[600+]

I was in a similar situation a couple of years ago...........my inner child wanted a dog as I was never allowed one when I was a kid.

After a lot of thinking I switched into doing mode and started looking in rescue centers. I ended up with a X staffy-pointer(?). Does he have past issues -YES. He is afraid of anything tubular and shinny i.e. an end can. Does this affect his behaviour yes obviously but not dangerously. Lately his has become very territorial with his tennis ball :) Any other dog try take it and you are in a dog fight - solution? - when I see other dogs ball goes in my pocket - they can chase themselves around :)

Practicalities now.......my dog is let out 3 times a day. Morning before work, evening after work and night before I go to bed. I have never had any problems with this routine and neither have the people next door with their dog or any other people that I know off.

Vet fees - once a year needs vaccinations - this means £25 at my vets - prices may vary.

Insurance - depending on dog/age etc costs me £12 a month

Going away for days - dog goes to a kennel. I had my reservations about this but after doing my research on kennels around my area and visiting them, I have found one I am happy with and this is where he goes. We travel at least twice a year for 2 weeks at a time - kennels cost me £8 per day and that includes his food, insurance while he is there and walks.

There are many breeds that are good with kids BUT there is ONE fundamental rule! ANY dog can become aggressive with anything as long as you let it get in that mind phase.

I vote get the FAMILY a dog! :)

Good luck

[Jayneflakes]

Get a cat!
No one minds if a cat bites them, they expect it. Cats do not need walking, although you can train them to walk on a lead if you wish and best of all, they do all of their poos in other peoples gardens!

Down sides to cat ownership are they own you, they have fleas, they insist on cuddles when you are working on the computer and you need a cat flap.

Cats are lovely and just domesticated enough to make them cute, although finding decapitated wildlife such as voles, mice, small birds and bison in your bed can be off putting.

[the_lone_wolf]

Get a cat!
if you enjoy picking up barely digested and still recognisable mouse body parts which they proudly march into the living room and vomit on the carpet while you're half way through motogp then yeah:rolleyes:;)

[Frank]

always had Staffs and loved them to bits


would I have another dog.....Never.
Hairs,smell,mess,tied down.bla bla bla

[yorkie_chris]

Getting a cat? We on about whether to get a dog, not what to feed it. :-P

Retired greyhounds are good dogs, but I wouldn't expect one to be a good running partner. They are bred sprint.

I'd say get a labrador, but I'm biased lol. Or maybe English mastiff, they're lovely dogs.

[TazDaz]

Get a springer spaniel. They are crazy dogs but tend to be great with children - obviously depends on the individual though!

I've had a few breeds in my life and the springer definitely has the most personality about him!

[Biker Biggles]

Or a Cocker Spaniel.Slightly smaller version of a Springer,or what I have got-----a cross between the two.Actually a pair of them.Lots of work but well worth it.

[yorkie_chris]

Yeah they very energetic.

[skidmarx]

get them a goldfish first see if they can look after that. Then a hamster next year, dog year after if they have followed through with the care plan. I'd ask the neighbours what they think too, nothing worse to a yapping dog allday when your all out.
If the wife wants one so bad then let her buy the dog and sort out the practicalities herself.

[Kinvig]

Get a cat.

It's got 4 legs & is furry.

...but it cleans up after itself, smells less and will let itself out for a walk.

[krhall]

If the wife wants one so bad then let her buy the dog and sort out the practicalities herself.

Her practicalities quickly become mine!

[yorkie_chris]

Is it your missus who's in the process of popping the alfa gearbox?

[Baph]

if you enjoy picking up barely digested and still recognisable mouse body parts which they proudly march into the living room and vomit on the carpet while you're half way through motogp then yeah:rolleyes:;)
We have a solution for that sort of mess. A 3ft snake.

We have an adopted cat (it was the previous owners' & just stayed at the house when we moved in), a load of mice (snake food that we breed), a snake, a rabbit, a couple of voles in the composter... the list is endless.

Yet we go through stages of wanting a dog, or a hamster, or another rabbit etc.

I think we'll start charging entry soon as we'll be running a zoo!

[krhall]

Is it your missus who's in the process of popping the alfa gearbox?

How do you mean?

[yorkie_chris]

If so then I wouldn't trust her with a gerbil, never mind a dog.

[krhall]

Hmmm good point, she chose it. I have spent the morning in the p*ssing down tryi g to sort it.

[ArtyLady]

I think you should stick to what youre truly comfortable with and dont be bullied. If you dont want the responsibility (and they are a huge responsibility) then put your foot down and say no.

A cautionary tail (play on words - geddit!) approx 17 years ago I picked up my MIL's very young but fully grown dog from her house in London (she couldnt handle because it was so boistrous - jump all over you and lick you type of boistrous!) on a Friday evening to take to the dog rescue home on the Saturday - that evening the kids (who had known the dog since puppyhood) badgered and pestered to keep her and in a moment of sentimental madness I agreed....

Picture the scene - 2 small kids, a two bed flat (we did have our own garden), a very hairy moulty dog (think bearded collie)...6 weeks later 9 pups :shock:

Anyway we all thought the world of her, loved and cared for her; when I made the decision to keep her I said she would stay with us until the day she died - a decision to which I stuck. She was a dear and wonderful with the kids so absolutely no regrets...apart from the hair/poo/pulling on the lead/vet bills/muddy footprnts/regular grooming parlour visits!

But I will never have another dog. My Son (now grown up - still lives at home) keeps pestering me to get another dog and I make my head rule my heart and remind myself that as much as I loved the dear old girl, I dont want the responsibility.

On side note - hubby has just shot out the front door to shoo away a cat that has just **** in our front garden :mad: now we will have to clean that up :smt076

[krhall]

To be honest the fact this here is probably the answer. If I really wanted a dog there would be no debate, but the other forces are strong and persistent!

[missyburd]

They want a puppy (obviously), but a retired greyhound would be a much nicer thing to do and from what I can make of it they are easy to care for in terms of food etc.


The obvious problem with getting an older dog is the fact you mightn't have many years with it, causing heartache and general grief all round when it leaves you. Also for training purposes it may become difficult. A new dog must get used to your whole way of life including being left alone occasionally (or often) which many can't handle. If a dog has been used to living with other dogs then it may find it very difficult adjusting and as a result may start acting completely differently to how you've been told it will act by the kennel-owners/rescue place. Of course things may go completely the other way and it may love having people all to itself but you can never predict a dog's behaviour, the key takehome message here.


but it broke my heart when my Mother had both of my dogs put to sleep, claiming that they had bitten people.


That's horrid :-(



Down sides to cat ownership are they own you, they have fleas, they insist on cuddles when you are working on the computer and you need a cat flap.


Cats around kids are not a good idea. The number of parasites they can pick up are astounding, through feeding on rats particularly. If you can confine it to the house - which is against their nature really :( - then you may be lucky, but judging how children behave in general, i.e. not washing hands much etc. they can be very susceptible :(. I am not trying to put people off cats at all, they're lovely, but it's a well known fact that people don't think about this when they get cats, and whereas the precautions you can take are all very well if it's just you to think about, with a child (or three) it's a whole different ballgame.

Although dogs aren't great as far as these things go, fleas and tapeworms are more easily prevented.

- I apologise for that long post lol, I'm doing a module on parasitology at the minute, I just know I'm going to be a paranoid wreck by the end of it!! :rolleyes:
get them a goldfish first see if they can look after that. Then a hamster next year, dog year after if they have followed through with the care plan.

+1, that's a great idea, breaks them into the responsibility slowly. Eases up the jobs on your part too. Although I have to say, we never had a dog when I was growing up, and I would have LOVED one.


At the end of the day Krhall, the decision is ultimately yours!

[Foxy]

Well it seems like I go from one issue to another, started the weekend with birthday present issues, now sorted.

Now all three of them are on at me to get a dog.........

I always wanted one as a kid, but was never allowed one and now it seems the tables have turned and I am the one saying no. I would still love one but the practicalities of picking crap up and being tied down are the bits that worry me.

So should I give in to them and be the best daddy in the world? If so what dog would be appropriate? Perhaps a rescued dog or retired greyhound.

If you really want to get one then go for it :cool: but you did say the practicalities of picking up crap and being tied down worries you.

IMHO I am sick of seeing CRAP where owners cannot be bothered to clean up after their dogs!! There is so much of it round here on the route to school and running routes. People take their dogs into Lucknam Park which is close by and beautiful only to be spoilt by those irresponsible owners who allow their dogs to foul and do not clean up after them :smt076. Oooops sorrry, RANT over LMAO:D

[metalmonkey]

As others have said about having a dog....

I had Sandy Blonde Lab when I was little kid he was called Barney I used to play with him all the time, go with walks ect with my mum with him. He was mad that dog:p Then he got sick and died, he was only 2. I loved him and neverstood until later life why my dog was put to sleep:( (i was young okay I had him as my dog when I was 5 I think)

My dad finally gave in again in 99 my sister got a pup called Max, he an awesome dog I love going home to walk and play with him. However as all the kids finally got kicked out, my parents now look after him. He nearly got himself killed as a pup, he got ran over my mum held the line in leg as the vet wroked on him.

As other said, you have to ready for him to die as my dog did and also pay up for everything and look after em, as the kids won't!

I would like my own dog now, however I work sh** hours so not fair to me or a dog.

[krhall]

I'm under it again tonight at dinner........they are like a dog with a bone!

[Foxy]

I'm under it again tonight at dinner........they are like a dog with a bone!

Are you close to buckling under the pressure? ;)

As MissYC says "at the end of the day Krhall, the decision is ultimately yours!" :D

[krhall]

Yeah when they start telling me how much they'd love it and in the back of my kind the fact I have always wanted one.

NIGHTMARE! Can't see this going away anytime soon.

[Foxy]

Can you not look after a friends dog while they are on hols or something just to see if it is what you and your family really want?

[krhall]

....and just at breakfast too......I'm close to collapse!

[Jayneflakes]

How about a small dog, like a Toy Yorkie?

An old friend years ago had one and the animal had such a big personality, it did not matter that she was smaller than my cat. She was great fun, you could cuddle her on your lap and she was still as silly as a well trained dog can be.

Sadly she got very ill towards the end of her life and the vets bills were huge, but they loved that dog and in the end let her pass away quietly with out suffering. It broke their hearts when they had her put to sleep and I missed her too.

However, the positive impact on their lives was something that they never forgot. Just one thing though, if you are over six feet tall and you are seen walking a toy Yorkie, people will think that you are gay. If this bothers you, do not buy a toy dog!

[krhall]

Not a problem - I'm not even that close to six-foot!

[yorkie_chris]

Don't give up now... it has to be a well considered decision, they're just excited about the thought. If they're still excited in a week then consider it more seriously.

p.s don't get a toy dog, bloody rats on strings.

[Stig]

No.

Your going to be ultimately responsible for it. If you don't want a dog, don't get one.

Pet's are a bigger tie than kids.

[Quedos]

If you have any doubt at all say no. I grew up with a irish setter and he was the best thing sibce sliced bread however my mum didn't work so was there all day - we all took our turns at looking after him talking him for walks and grooming (excpet brother and it was his dog) but they are a tie - we had to put the dog in kennels every holiday as he didn't like car travel ( not cheap) we nearly lost him 3 times due to broken glass severing arteries. over and above the day to day vets bills
i wouldn't change it for the world and loved growing up with him and would love another one - but i can't offer what the dogs need for a great life and you'll never forget the day they die - its the only time I've seen my brother cry.
Try getting them a small animal first then progress upwards in the size scale - if they can look after that then and only then will you consider a dog - they need to prove that they can look after it too
(my hamster can be a tie and a pain to clean but she soo sweet)

[krhall]

Right, so now the whole world is conspiring against me. Went on my running forum this morning and post goes up titled: Genuine Call for a Good Home

So I clicked.......there I found a post from a friend of a lady who had split from her partner and now couldn't keep the dog due to not really being at home, the dog is a 7 month old black retriever.

I sent a speculatory PM about the dog thinking it would be up north so end of story. Turns out the dog is in Greenwich, which is where I work.........

1. Ticks the not buying a puppy but a dog that needs a home box.
2. Ticks the puppy box.
3. Ticks the close to home box.
4. Ticks the family friendly box.............arghhhhh the whole world is against me!

Oh and I only talk on there about running, so hadn't even hinted at getting a dog.

[missyburd]

Don't give up now... it has to be a well considered decision, they're just excited about the thought. If they're still excited in a week then consider it more seriously.

p.s don't get a toy dog, bloody rats on strings.

gah and they yap like nowt else and seem to think they are perfectly of taking on even the biggest dog, although Jack Russells are worse. But they're still cute - looks only...and if they didn't exist then a lot of little old ladies would miss them :rolleyes:

[missyburd]

Right, so now the whole world is conspiring against me. Went on my running forum this morning and post goes up titled: Genuine Call for a Good Home

So I clicked.......there I found a post from a friend of a lady who had split from her partner and now couldn't keep the dog due to not really being at home, the dog is a 7 month old black retriever.

I sent a speculatory PM about the dog thinking it would be up north so end of story. Turns out the dog is in Greenwich, which is where I work.........

1. Ticks the not buying a puppy but a dog that needs a home box.
2. Ticks the puppy box.
3. Ticks the close to home box.
4. Ticks the family friendly box.............arghhhhh the whole world is against me!

Haha, tis meant to be! Someone's trying to hint very obviously at you ;)

[yorkie_chris]

Retrievers are lovely dogs, pretty dense but lovely natured.

[missyburd]

hang on, you said black retriever? Must be a flat-coated one then, golden retrievers are the normal ones. I've always wanted a flat-coated one #sigh#

[Ed]

If you decide to take the dog, insist on seeing the vet record so you know that it's had all the injections and whatever else dogs are sposed to have - worm tablets and de-flea treatment???

Retrievers need a lot of exercise don't they, so you have a running companion.

We gave in to demands for a kitten:rolleyes: We now have Dorothy, she's 11 weeks old, tortoiseshell mogette.

[yorkie_chris]

Not as bad for needing loads of exercise as a collie or something, but much happier when they get it.

[krhall]

I have no idea what a black retriever even looks like. Although I would be really happy for a reason to get off my &rse and go for a run especially as motivation is hard in the winter - damn see another reason for a dog.

Had some more details through and it has all of that has been chipped too?

[missyburd]

chipping is good, saves you a lot of dosh :)

However maybe not if I'm guessing the dog's not free? ;)

[krhall]

Not too sure yet - waiting for details.

[yorkie_chris]

Best way to describe one is like a longer haired labrador, but a little more lithe.

They love a swim, and are quite a good sponge so have fun drying it off :-P

[krhall]

Perfect for my cross-country running plans for winter then......

[yorkie_chris]

Oh yeah. Been out a few times with a friend of mine up on moors ... he has 2 pups he's in process of training as gundogs. Loads of energy for that sort of thing.

[stevie]

http://forums.sv650.org/picture.php?albumid=87&pictureid=543My dog Casey is a Flat coat retriever collie cross, he is a born comedian,loves to swim,loves kids,playing ball, catching Frisbee's etc. I would definitely go for a full on flat coat. :D
http://forums.sv650.org/picture.php?albumid=87&pictureid=512

[missyburd]

He's lovely Stevie :D I'm deffo getting one of those when I get me own place! Along with however many others I can get away with and afford to keep haha :colors:

Thought you had 3 staffs, or is that someone else...:confused:

[stevie]

He's lovely Stevie :D I'm deffo getting one of those when I get me own place! Along with however many others I can get away with and afford to keep haha :colors:

Thought you had 3 staffs, or is that someone else...:confused:
No I've got Casey, Honey and Holly( and they are all nuts!!)
http://forums.sv650.org/picture.php?albumid=87&pictureid=513Casey and Honey with Holly below:D
http://forums.sv650.org/picture.php?albumid=87&pictureid=511

[missyburd]

Ah my apologies I was thinking of 5tu :rolleyes:

Bet that lot keep you busy! See Krhall, don't they look heaps of fun! :D:D:D

[Foxy]

....and just at breakfast too......I'm close to collapse!

You could always wear ear plugs at meal times ;)

[pencil shavings]

noooo"!!!!!

dont do it!!!!

get a cat, they look after themselves!!

[missyburd]

noooo"!!!!!

dont do it!!!!

get a cat, they look after themselves!!

:rolleyes:








............#pencil shavings is bundled up in a sack and dragged off#

[pencil shavings]

:rolleyes:








............#pencil shavings is bundled up in a sack and dragged off#


people only resort to violence once they are convinced their argument no long and stands up to scrutiny ;)

[missyburd]

people only resort to violence once they are convinced their argument no long and stands up to scrutiny ;)

No argument, you're just trying to influence the fella's decision ;)

[pencil shavings]

No argument, you're just trying to influence the fella's decision ;)

ok, I know that women dont argue, they just tell you how it is :rolleyes:

but come on, you cant tell him to get a dog then have a kitty in your avatar :cat:

:laughat:

[missyburd]

ok, I know that women dont argue, they just tell you how it is :rolleyes:

but come on, you cant tell him to get a dog then have a kitty in your avatar :cat:

:laughat:

Wild cats are not quuuite the same as domestic pussycats, not many about as pets either - well there shouldn't be, obviously there are illegal pets :flower:
Anyway! back on topic:-)

[pencil shavings]

http://www.thebigcats.com/news/2004_0715_tiger_bobo_killed05.jpg

pet lion anyone?? :D

[pencil shavings]

but really, the choices are, shovel dog **** for the rest of your life, or go home every night and have a willing pussy to play with......

I know what I would choose ;)

[stevie]

Ooo your being very single minded. What about stinky litter trays, oh yes we have kitty's as well.

[Jayneflakes]

We gave in to demands for a kitten:rolleyes: We now have Dorothy, she's 11 weeks old, tortoiseshell mogette.

Hmm, toys with the idea of asking if you are a friend of Dorothy.... Then decides not too...:laughat:






Especially after what I said about toy dogs...

By the way, I am a kittie owner and former tarantula owner. My advice, never buy your kids a tarantula, mine was a moody creature and actually bit me once. I still loved her dearly and was heart broken when I was forced to re-home her when I was forced to re-home myself.:cat:

[pencil shavings]

Ooo your being very single minded. What about stinky litter trays, oh yes we have kitty's as well.

true..

that is the downside to cats, training them to go outside, but they get the hang of it with time!

[MoDaddy]

If so what dog would be appropriate? Perhaps a rescued dog or retired greyhound.

Be the Best Daddy now,

and when the kids leave home the dog will be old and you'll be the Best Daddy who took Humphrey for his last walk to the hydrant.
It's been three years since we had to say goodbye to our two furry family members. We miss the personalities, but we RELISH the time now without the headaches and responsibilites of dog care.

GET THE RIGHT DOG!!!
I REPEAT, GET A DOG THAT MATCHES YOUR LIFE!

A retired racing dog? Sure, and a retired prostitute would make a fine wife. How 'bout a Welsh Corgy? Or a Boston Terrier will wear out your kids every night before they go to bed. Picture everything in your home covered with dog hair; what color/length do you prefer?

Do take the time to sit and listen to your children giggle as the puppy licks them in the ear!

[krhall]

OK so after another barrage at dinner tonight, I've never been cuddled so much!!!

I checked my mail and have a mail from the owner, explaining the situation. Which makes me feel bad as she clearly doesn't want rid of it, but it is obvious that we would be a perfect solution for each other.

Even sent me a few photos, the dog is now nine months old and all up to date vet wise, but will need worming and something else soon. The lady doesn't want anything for him just wants to see him go to a good home.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l286/krhall_2006/monty002.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l286/krhall_2006/monty003.jpg

[stevie]

Oh go on you Know you really want to!!!!

[krhall]

It is looking harder and harder to resist.

[Dangerous Dave]

The lady doesn't want anything for him just wants to see him go to a good home.
Isn't that code for the dog is mental and the owner can't take anymore! ;)

[Stig]

Hmmm doggy scratches all over leather sofa. :thumbdown:

[missyburd]

I know what I'd do, but then I'm complete softie with dogs :rolleyes:

Why don't you arrange to meet the dog and see how the two of you react to each other? Can't harm, and then you will have a good idea of what you're letting yourself in for :D

Although obviously there is the risk that you will fall in love with it and your mind will be made up for you :p

[missyburd]

Hmmm doggy scratches all over leather sofa. :thumbdown:

That would just take a bit of work and someone to show him who's boss, not too much of a problem really. Anyway, she shouldn't have got a pup if she was that bothered about her furniture lol

[krhall]

Why don't you arrange to meet the dog and see how the two of you react to each other? Can't harm, and then you will have a good idea of what you're letting yourself in for :D

Already on it MissYC. Sent an e-mail back asking to come and see the dog.

DD - You could be right, but she sounded genuine.

[Dangerous Dave]

DD - You could be right, but she sounded genuine.
So did my parents to the recruitment officer... ;)

[Jayneflakes]

So did my parents to the recruitment officer... ;)

Yet I bet you still turned out all right?... Once you had been trained right, you know how to walk at the right speed pace etc and how to go to the toilet at the right times...

You see training dogs is like training recruits, you really want to beat them into shape, but it is against the law and being nice works better! :smt080

[krhall]

Well lets see what she comes back with?

[yorkie_chris]

Awww well cute!

[Ed]

Best go get the dog kit this week ready for a weekend homecoming then Kev. Dog brush. Feed bowl. Water bowl. Leash. Heavy duty brush for Hoover:D

[yorkie_chris]

My brother used to keep mice, they used to absolutely love the dogs hair for bedding.

[Biker Biggles]

Im surprised the dog allowed the mice to bed down in his hair.

[yorkie_chris]

Told you labs are good natured :-P

....the mass of hair left over when brushing him I mean.

[Dangerous Dave]

Best go get the dog kit this week ready for a weekend homecoming then Kev. Dog brush. Feed bowl. Water bowl. Leash. Heavy duty brush for Hoover:D
and start saving your newspapers......

[Stig]

Pet insurance, vets fees, kennel fees, burnt grass, cold frosty dog walks, dog poo collecting, smelling carpets, smelling car...

[Sosha]

Pet insurance, vets fees, kennel fees, burnt grass, cold frosty dog walks, dog poo collecting, smelling carpets, smelling car...

You know I'm starting to get the impression you're not a "dog person"......


:smt080

[yorkie_chris]

Frosty dog walks are best ones. ... it's when it's slashing down it gets tedious.

[Dangerous Dave]

Someone to go jogging with though Kev....

[missyburd]

Someone who will always be pleased to see you when you come home, someone to curl up with you when you're cold, someone to vac up all the food that gets dropped ont the floor, someone for your kids to run to when they're upset...

Sold it to you yet? :-D

[krhall]

Right met the dog and owner and had a chat, so I am about to re-affirm myself as the best dad in the world in the next few hours..............Dad Labrador mum retriever. The kids are totally unaware.

[yorkie_chris]

Dog or bitch?

[Dangerous Dave]

Dad Labrador mum retriever.
A lab is a retriever, or did you mean the mum (bitch) is a Golden Retriever?

Best dad huh... won't be saying that when it pee's all over the place.... :p