It is National Adopt a Dog month, sponsored by the Humane Society since 1981. It encourages people seeking out pet ownership to consider adopting a dog rather than purchasing one from a pet store or private breeder. Many dogs need to be adopted and they cover every type of breed. If your elderly parent and you have discussed him entering the world of pet ownership and think a dog would be a great addition to his life, there are important considerations that should be discussed.
Just as people vary in temperament, interests, and physicality, dogs are the same. Finding a dog that complements your parent’s lifestyle will be important. While all dogs are wonderful, not every dog is for every person. Here are some things to consider when looking for the perfect pup for your parent.
Age
There’s no doubt that puppies are adorable and will melt your heart. But, does your parent have the ability to care for a puppy? Puppies require a lot of patience, training, and cleanup in the first year. Much like parents of infants, new puppy owners find themselves getting up several times a night to take care of their little ones. Dogs don’t come house-trained, and the process of training can be exhausting. While an elder care provider can help during the day, those middle-of-the-night trips outside will be left up to your parent. For this reason, an adult dog may be a better choice.
Size
Bigger dogs often require more work. Small lap dogs are often content with small walks and spending most of the day cuddled up on the couch. While a larger dog may like to cuddle on the couch (and take the whole couch up!), it’s also going to require more vigorous exercise to keep it healthy, happy, and well-behaved. Your parent will want to make sure he has the ability to not only take a large dog for long walks but also the strength to control it if it decides to give the leash a good yank when it spots a squirrel across the street. Elder care providers and/or family members might be able to assist with walking the dog if your parent truly desires a larger dog.
Cost
While the initial cost of adopting a dog can be something your parent can save up for, he’ll want to also consider future costs with the breed of dog he adopts. Some breeds are known to have more medical issues than others. Doing a bit of online research about the typical healthcare costs of certain breeds will be wise before your parent starts looking for dogs. His elder care provider can help him find the information he needs online. Also, to a smaller extent, is the cost of grooming. Some dogs shed and some need to be groomed. If your parent adopts a dog that needs regular grooming, it’ll be important that he has the budget for that.
Help your parent find a dog that will provide years of companionship and joy without unexpected hardships by doing your research before he falls in love with the first tail that wags at him.
If you or an aging loved-one is considering Elder Care in Devon, PA please contact the caring staff at Harmony Companion Home Care today. (610) 910-6015
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