The everlasting love for your dog inspired you to get a new one. After all, what could be better than the love of one adorable pet? Twice as much love! However, this should be a conscious and very well-thought-out decision. Rushing to get a new dog, without taking the time to properly plan, is not be the best way to decide on getting a new pet for your home. A rushed decision could make you and your new puppy unhappy, but a careful plan can lay the foundation for years of happy bonding. Our Atlanta pet sitters look at nine important factors to think about, including a mix of pros and cons, before making this important decision.
5 Reasons to Get a Second Dog
Getting a new dog or puppy can be a very positive experience – but it can also become a big nightmare and quickly get out of hand if you do not take the necessary precautions first. Before you drive to your local shelter, take a moment and consider the following pros and cons of adding a second dog to your household.
Pro #1: More Company
Having more than one dog means you get more company from your favorite kind of pet. Their unconditional love can fill your house with warmth and lots of happy moments that will be treasured forever.
Pro #2: More Security
A dog not only keeps you company, their love and respect make them go above and beyond when it comes to your security. Depending on the breed’s size and temperament, a second dog can be a great guard that helps make your environment safer.
Pro #3: Relaxation
After a long day at work, all you need is get back home to a happy and heart-melting welcome from your trusty companion. Dogs can be very therapeutic, and can help reduce your stress levels after a difficult day. In the long run, that can actually improve your health.
Pro #4: Company in Difficult Times
It is a sad but true fact that at some point in life, you will have to say goodbye to your best buddy. While nothing can replace the loss of your dog, the presence of another doggy in your home can help you get through this difficult time.
Pro #5: Giving Your Dog a New Friend
It is possible you want a new dog because the one you have at home is alone all the time, and you wish to give Fido another doggy companion. Depending on each dog’s personality and background, they could become best friends for life.
5 Risks and Drawbacks of Getting Another Dog
There are plenty of great reasons to add another dog to your family – but there are also many reasons to postpone the decision. Before you make a new canine commitment, think carefully about the potential drawbacks below.
#1: More Expenses
Getting an additional dog represents additional costs that you must budget for carefully. In addition to investing in ordinary costs like food and training, there may also be other expenses, like visits to the veterinarian for health-related issues, or dog obedience classes for tricky problem behaviors.
#2: More Responsibilities
Now that you know getting a new dog comes with an added cost, you should also consider the responsibilities associated with this decision. It is important to know you need to be responsible for the proper exercise and training of your dog. Other responsibilities include walking your dog, cleaning up after your dog, and properly feeding and grooming your furry friend.
#3: Less Time
Taking care of your dog can be time-consuming. This means more time and effort should come from you, not only to make not only the introduction between the two dogs smoother, but also to help your new family member feel right at home. Dedicating time to both of your dogs can take up a great amount of space on an already busy calendar. However, our Atlanta dog walking company will be there to help take over when life gets too hectic!
#4: Potential Behavior Problems
Nobody knows your dog the way you do. From their daily routines to the food they love, you can unmistakably point out all the things they like and do not like. This also means you should know the way your pooch acts. It is very important to take note of your dog’s behavior, as it could affect the way they will react to the introduction of a new dog to their space. Dogs can be territorial and dominant, so knowing your dog can help you determine whether adding a new one would be a recipe for trouble.
Atlanta In-Home Dog Sitters Can Help
A vacation, errand, wedding, or work event can keep you from home for a long period of time. But who will take your dogs out for a walk? Who will feed them? Who will play with them? Who will make sure they get their medication or supplements on time?
At Critter Sitters, we are committed to our clients and take our responsibilities very seriously. Our Smyrna dog sitting company can make sure your dog is taken care of when you are unable to. If you are getting a new dog, or even if you already have more than one canine buddy, our pet-loving crew of dog sitters and dog walkers can lend a helping, caring hand.
Call Critters Sitters today for an initial free consultation at 404-793-6178, and learn more about the services our Smyrna dog walkers can provide in your area. We serve Georgia communities across the Atlanta region.
