have a dog question

[snowball]

After my husband passed away the kids said you can get a dog now Mom
and I can (DH wasn't a pet in the house person)
So this has crossed my mind for a few months now
and last Sat while shopping happen to see some puppies for sale
in a parking lot so stopped and looked and petted and walked away they were so cute
but can't see spending 300 dollars on a pet...so went into the internet this weekend
and found some lots of some the ones I'm really interested in is being fostered not far from
here will be going through the town on my way to SLC for dd's graduation...so going to stop
in and look but one of my dd's suggested that I pose a question to all of you
and when she first mentioned it I thought but what they will say "it's an individual thing" and it is
but would you tell me what made you get the dog you did the ups and the downs and the hmm maybe's
it's a big step and am I ready to get this pup or would I be better to wait a few months and not have to worry
about a puppy while getting used to driving a truck towing a 5th wheel lots to give a thought to
anyway any thoughts from you all would be great
sheila

[Sandersmr]

How about instead of a puppy, getting an older dog that is already housebroken and may have some basic training. Oscar is a rescue and was anywhere from a year to 18 months old when we got him. Jazzy was a pound dog and was 11 months old when we got her.

And I'm glad to hear you mention rescue groups. To me, they are the way to go. There are too many unwanted dogs. Lots of people go for the puppies because they are so cute. But puppies are a lot of work. With older dogs, it's easier to determine their true nature (although Jazz hid hers from us - that's a whole story in and of itself). We could tell Jazz was friendly - we could tell that both did not have overly aggressive tendencies. And neither is super-hyper, although they have had their moments.

Dogs make great traveling companions but make sure that you want to commit to a dog. A dog may limit to some extent your sightseeing. Most national parks do not allow dogs on the trails or in the backcountry. When you are in town shopping, you will have to figure out what you are going to do with your dog. Will it stay quietly in your trailer, or will it be a holy terror yapper?

All that said, personally I love my two overgrown fur dropping mutts - they give unconditional love - ok so maybe it's on the condition of an occasional belly rub, or in Jazzy's case, a chance to spoon with me at night.

[Redwahine]

Yes, this is a very personal decision. I grew up with Irish Setters. My mom and dad bred them and I was told I was born with a litter. I got my own Irish when I was 16 and trained her as a competitive field trial dog and then as a show dog. Then I had German Shorthaired Pointers and English Setters. Then as my next life had me living on board a boat and sailing many days at sea, there were no dogs. When I decided it was time for a dog again, I made a list of pros and cons of A puppy vs rescue/adoption. I decided that I had raised enough puppies and did not want to go through the chewing and house breaking stages again. But then you get a dog that already has bad or good habits. I knew I wanted a sporting breed, but a smaller one. I kept my eye open and one day there was an English Cocker Spaniel that needed a home. Dustin was house broken and semi obedience trained. He had been abused and I would make his 3rd family in his 3 short yrs and he needed TLC. He was such a rascal and a character. He was the best. He looked just like Tina's Stuart.

Then while on a trip to Oregon I found an tri colored English Setter that neede a home. He had been shown on the bench, but then discovered he had a Thyroid problem. So they neutered him and he was living with 6 English Mastiffs twice his size. He needed his own family and someone that would take care of his daily meds and annual blood tests. He was 5 when I got him. He is afraid of other dogs. He wants to play, but nips! So, I have to keep him away from other dogs. He is such a sweetheart. My DH keeps saying he doesn't act like a dog. He does not get up on the furniture, or jump on people. He was leash trained, house broken and just a pleasure to have him around. I still am glad that I adopted dogs that already were housebroken, immunizations and a bit more mature.

I know you will find the perfect dog for you. There are so many dogs that are no longer adorable little puppies that need homes. You should not have to spend a lot of $$ for one. Even though my last 2 dogs were adopted, they weren't exactly free. They wanted $$ for Dustin, but I explained what a loving home he would have and that the cost of catching up on shots, etc would be expensive. So they gave him to me. Tyler was free, but cost quit a bit for me to fly to OR and bring him back to Hawaii with me. Worth every penny. Now he is happy in TX My next dog will be an adopted sporting breed as well

[BirdbyBird]

Choosing to share your life with a dog is a leap of faith for those of us that understand the commitment that accepting an animal into your lives means... It has ups and downs. It is not to be taken lightly. That said, those of us who have traveled through our lives with animals couldn't imagine living without their presence. Animals help remind you that life is the present. It is the now. Yes, our heart breaks and we lose bits and pieces through the years as these partners don't live as long as we do. Somehow I think these same animals that we grieve, leave our hearts larger and our understanding clearer that life is to be lived everyday and one of our jobs should be to find those things worth wagging our tail and smiling.... because they would.

About how much money you might have to spend. Some times the "free" dogs cost more than you can afford. Many rescue groups have fees for the adoption of their dogs. Think about what services the dog/puppy had received. Health checks, puppy shots and neutering are expenses....

I also would encourage you to at least consider a slightly older dog for all the reasons earlier. Many groups foster their dogs in home situations and may be able to help match you with a dog with some of the traits that would help make life more successful for both of you. If you personally have not owned a dog recently talk with your family about how you plan on handling typical doggy situations. GOOD rescue groups that care about their charges will put you "through the hoops". For many shelters and rescue groups...having a fenced yard is a biggie. Obviously, many RVs have dogs and travel extensively with their pets, but the groups may not be aware of our alternate universe. Be prepared to explain it.

If there are certain breeds that you are interested, most national breed clubs websites and rescue groups supporting the safe placement for their breed.

Read what you can.....let us know what you decide...and eventually one will pick you....

[rvgal]

I would certainly not get a puppy whne you're just figuring out how to deal with your rig, driving, etc. Would you want to have an 8 week old baby with you? Probably not. A puppy is much the same. You have potty training (housebreaking), doctor visits for shots & checkups, teething, socialization, obedience training etc etc. After several months when you're feeling more comfortable, think about it then. If you decide that you want the responsibility & the cost of a dog, then certainly go to shelters & look for an adult dog that is already housebroken, already spayed/neutered, maybe even has some training. I volunteered for the Humane Society for years & we got so many wonderful adult dogs in the shelter.
People may think that dogs go to a shelter because they are a problem. That's not the case. Especially in this bad economy, many people must give up their precious pets simply because they can't afford to feed & care for them. I also saw wonderful dogs come in to the shelter when their elderly owner died. Or a couple will have a baby & decide they can't give enough time to their dog anymore. So if you do decide to get a dog, please give a chance to awesome shelter dogs!

[retiredhappy]

I, too, vote for a shelter dog. Everyone wants those cute (read lots of work) puppies but the older dogs NEED someone much more and you can tell their personality unlike a puppy. All my dogs have been either shelter or rescue dogs. Also check vets office bulletin boards. Right now my vet has a posting for an adult Doxie who's owner had to go into a nursing home. I've made arrangements for my two dogs in case something happens to me.

Yes, you have to think about how a dog does limit you in some ways but there isn't anything else that will give you absolutely unconditional love. When Carole (and her small dog) come traveling with me I can only take Sophie. I leave Buddy at home cause of his size and hire a babysitter who actually stays and sleeps with him. If you're away from your rig sightseeing you can only leave the dog for a few hours. Cruises are out for me. You do need to be careful not to get a yapper that will bark continuously while you're away from your rig. Cost is another factor. Buddy is now almost 14 and he's on two meds daily.

[Bethers]

Sheila, my question to you is to ask yourself if you're ready to take on the commitment? Whether you adopt or purchase, and I'm in favor of adoption, you are adding a family member. For me, there is no doubt the love they give is so well worth it. But that love comes with other traits. Some dogs may pee where they shouldn't. Some bark. Some chew. Etc. Some need long walks, some are ok with just potty time outside. Some breeds need way more grooming than others. Some shed more, some less. Consider what traits you can deal with and that can help you find the right dig for you. Please don't just pick the cute little puppy that needs more than you can offer. Find the one that needs you, but that you can handle and love in your lifestyle.

All this says, you know I'm in favor of you finding the right companion for you.

[grammynmaggie]

Maggie is my first dog, I never had time to care for a dog, working 2 jobs most of my life
My daughter is an animal lover, and thought when I was going thur a hard time after leaving a long time relationship,that I needed a dog. She had a small dog and some papillon in him, and I liked him. So they got me maggie 5 yrs ago. She was 8 weeks old when she came into my life. Oh my what a wonderful baby I got. She was very easy to train, and very smart. She was bred to be a show dog but had to much pink in her nose so they had to sell her. I can not believe how smart she is. And she makes me laugh everyday of my life starting that very first day. She does make something hard to do and I always have to figure out what to do with her when I want to do something. Most of the time she goes with me everywhere. This summer I got a dog buggy for her and now take her shopping and most places I could not before. Any why I love my fur baby. And I am never lonely with her around
I posted on my blog about the buggy if you want to look

http://grammyandthepapillonprinces.blog ... -ride.html

[havingfunnow]

I love dogs, as The William will tell you. Except for a brief college interlude (universities won't let you have dogs in married student housing -- maddening!), I've always lived with one. They have enriched my life more than I can possibly say.

Even so, I don't think I'd have a new dog and a new rig at the same time. Too much newness all at once! That's true whether you get a puppy or a grown dog; even the adults need to adjust to your way of doing things, and that takes a while.

Take your time, and find the dog that is just right for you and the way you live in your RV. You notice Red prefers sporting breeds? I'll probably always have herding dogs, purebred or mixed breed. Spend time around different dogs and decide what characteristics -- physical and behavioral -- are a good fit for you.

[monik7]

I agree with everything already said. I've had dogs all my life and can't imagine being without one. My Cockapoo Krissi is 13 1/2 and I had decided that she would be my last dog. However, when my daughter finally agreed to my granddaughter's begging for a puppy last year, they got a cute Maltipoo. She was such a cutie, I couldn't stand it and decided to check with the lady they got her from. I wanted a dog just like my granddaughter's Pippi. 2 weeks later I got Pippi's 1/2 sister, Abby, who turned out to be a Shih-poo and was 8 weeks old. She is the sweetest dog and I never go a day without laughing and smiling at her antics and all the love she gives.

Her house training took 2 months and I must admit that I don't want to do it again. Because I worked so hard at it, she trained quickly (much quicker than Pippi). What I'm trying to say is that if you want the house training to go well, you have to be very diligent and it's a LOT of work. How would you be able to do that while trying to acclimate to a new rig? I would always vote for getting a dog because I love them so much and know how much they can add to your life. But I think the advice given above to get a rescue or shelter adult dog would be the best for you and a dog that needs your love and a good home. I think a smaller dog would be best for RVing, and I believe they tend to live longer than large dogs too.

Good luck and take your time. I look forward to hearing what you decide and if you go for a dog, seeing pics of your new best friend.
Sandi

[dayspring39]

When I got Shadow he was maybe 6 months old... rescued from a bad situation... I believe a rescued animal is the best way to go... I an very fortunate with Shadow... he can be left for several hours and does not bark... but when I am home if someone comes yes he barks... he is old now but has been such a joy in my life... as most have said there are many expenses involved... be sure you are ready for that... take your time... I put my name on a web site asking for a small dog or cat... most of what I thought were my requirements I did not get...
Good luck in your decision... and never ask this group of well informed ladies to just say 'It is an individual decision"... ha ha ha we all are full of helpful answers...
Kathleen

[rvgrammy1953]

Grew up on a farm where we had the usual critters, cows, pigs, chickens, ducks, cats and always an outside dog....(My Mom was never a fan of having inside pets.) My Dad also bred and raised Basset Hounds....Love them!!! But after 2 litters, the pair didn't have anymore pups....so when they died, we just had the farm dog, usually a Border Collie.....In our married life we've had a Basset (which I bought for my Dad who gave it back when he developed back pain issues), an Irish setter, a pound puppy mix, and another pound puppy Wirehair/jack russell mix that lived with us for 18 yrs.....When we had to put her down, Ernie said "No more dogs" mainly because he was really close to her....It took me 6 yrs. to talk him into another dog...with him telling me it had to be a Jack Russell, housebroke, neutered, smart, and free....From his lips to God's ear, a couple weeks later we got Spinner.....Ernie's biggest reason for not having a dog was that it limits our sightseeing and place we can go, but luck would have it, Spinner is very good at being by himself, not being a yappy Jack, and he's good with other people & dogs so, if needed, we can usually find a "dog sitter".

I, too, would not do the "puppy" thing again....as has been said "alot of work"....and there are so many adult dogs needing a forever home and folks to love.....and who will love them.....Also, agree that I'd wait awhile before getting your fur-baby until you are settled in and comfortable with the new rig...This all being said, I wouldn't trade having our Spinner for anything in this world.....He's such a joy, funny, smart, and is a great "Guard Dog" (he owns the 5er, his house, and he just lets us live in it.. ) and will let us know with a low woof if something is to be checked out....

So take your time, visit rescues and shelters.....the dog for you usually "finds you" not the other way around....and I do believe that the Powers Above help out, too...

[Dawn309]

I too cannot imagine not having a dog. I have 3. As the others have said before me, I would look for a shelter or rescue dog. All mine are pure breeds which I have purchased. Chuck and I believed God directed us to each of them. When I got Luke at 7:00 on a Tuesday night, I was not aware he had Parvovirus and Hook Worms. It did not take us long to realize he was sick and I had him at the vet early the next morning. $1000 spent by Sunday at the vet's but he survived. Rascal is a white schnauzer that would have been put down because of his color so we bought him. Belle was born with no retinas and again, we bought her. My vet says he has a card on his Rolodex with my name for dogs needing special care. When I get another dog, I probably won't get a pure breed. I think mixed breeds have fewer health issues because of so much in breeding in the purebreds. Now that I am full timing, I think I would also get an older dog rather than a puppy for all the reasons listed above. It is a total commitment but one I will gladly make again at some point. Luke will be 9 this December and Belle was 3 in June so I don't think I will be looking for another dog for some time to come. All 3 dogs have adapted to this new home and lifestyle wonderfully. I cannot imagine not sleeping on the edge of my bed because 3 dogs are pushing on me.

[snowball]

thank you all for your insight...lots to think about! need to clear up something though 5th wheel isn't new have lived in it for 6 years I believe... it's the driving the truck towing it that is new
going to look at the pups but still haven't decided one of my daughters thinks I ought to get the pup/dog now so that it can get used to children sense I have several grandkids and it is something that I shouldn't decide on a whim need to absolutely know this is what I want/need my oldest grandson informed me if I decide that I don't want it he will take it in a heartbeat. But that isn't what I want to do if I decide to get one it will be because I want to not to give it up for some reason...will keep thinking and looking looked at some on the internet tonight and found some in UT that are older might have to keep an eye on them till next wee and then go see them this trip is too fast to take time to check out shelters
sheila

[Travelinana]

I've only bought one dog in my life..My husband agreed to a schnauzer right after we married. The rest have found me. My first was in a litter born underneath an old house near our business. Heinz was a member of the family during my kid's childhood. After Gretchen (schnauzer, lived 15 years) we build our house not far from the shelter. We learned right away dogs were dropped in the night. The first one we kept was blue black in color, had the face of a newfoundland..sadly she was hit by a car. Next ones to show up at our front yard was Baby, a Golden Retriever, and Lucy, an All American. They stayed with my husband when we divorced. During my move back to hometown, I found Lovey, a Shiz Tzu, on the side of the highway, very malnourished and very pregnant. She was also a very sick dog. She gave birth to 5 puppies but only two lived. She had surgery one week later and the weaker one died soon after probably because of drugs in her system. Rudy, my perfect companion, is the remaining pup and looks nothing like his mom. I lost her 2 years ago to Cushings disease. He was terrible as a puppy, chewed anything and everything, sunk those little sharp teeth in my arms..scars to prove it but I loved his personality. He has entertained me for 6 years, turned out to be a perfect traveler, and stays in the RV on the sofa where I leave him with last words of 'I love you and I'll be right back', give him a kiss on both sides of his face. He also doesn't bark when alone but barks plenty when it's just us. I don't even like to think of replacing him..but I will always rescue. As much as I loved Gretchen there is a special bond with one that you have given a life they probably would not have had. I have just hit a button that caused lots of yellow marks on all the 'r's...if they show up can someone tell me what I did and how to undo...