According to Dogs Trust, the cost of living crisis is hitting dog owners across the UK hard. Meanwhile, adoption numbers are falling as people tighten their belts in the face of a potential housing crisis, deciding that they simply cannot afford to take on a new dog.

Interest rate hikes and soaring energy prices have triggered inflation, with the cost of essentials like filling fuel tanks, heating homes and even just eating skyrocketing. Against this backdrop, not only are many families deciding against getting a dog but existing pet owners are struggling to provide for their beloved pets. Because of this, Dogs Trusts reports that it has received an unprecedented number of enquiries from pet owners who have run out of options and are desperate for help.

In July 2022, Dogs Trust reports that it received 4,370 enquiries from dog owners facing the prospect of giving up their dog in that month alone, representing the highest level since its records began. In the face of a huge increase in the cost of everyday living, record numbers of dog owners are struggling to care for their dogs. They are now finding that they can no longer afford the bare necessities of pet ownership, such as vets bills and even just pet food, which have increased significantly in price.

A YouGov poll of UK dog owners revealed that a staggering 48% agreed that they would find giving their dog all they needed more difficult compared to before the cost-of-living crisis. 48% of dog owners cited vet bills as their biggest pet-related financial concern for the coming year, with 23% most worried about dog food and 14% naming insurance as their biggest worry. Meanwhile, 61% of non-dog owners agreed that the rising cost of living would prevent them from buying or adopting a dog.

Owen Sharp is the CEO of Dogs Trust. He points out that the UK is heading towards a situation in which it will have a surplus of dogs. Nevertheless, with a deficit in people who can afford to give a home to a new dog, the outlook appears bleak. Mr Sharp said that although the charity could not promise miracles, Dogs Trust is always there to listen without judgement, talking through the options and giving dog owners the benefit of its knowledge.

Rising to this huge challenge, Dogs Trust is supporting dog owners, helping however it can during this difficult time. The charity has opened pet food banks at many of its rehoming centres to support people struggling to feed their dog. In addition, Dogs Trust is also supporting owners with discounted behaviour training, providing subsidised classes for those who need help with their dog’s behaviour or training and need financial assistance. Dogs Trust has made an urgent appeal to people with space in their homes for dogs that find it more difficult to find a home, such as dogs that are not house trained, big dogs and dogs with challenging behaviour.

The Dogs Trust Pet Food Bank scheme is operational at many rehoming centres, helping those who are struggling to feed their dogs. Dogs Trust Pet Food Bank locations include:

• Ballymena –  Northern Ireland
• Glasgow – Scotland
• Cardiff – Wales
• Basildon and Colchester – Essex
• Canterbury and Maidstone – Kent
• Darlington – County Durham
• Harefield – London
• Lewknor – Oxfordshire
• Merseyside – Liverpool
• Newbury – Berkshire
• Penrith – Cumbria
• Salisbury – Wiltshire
• Snetterton – Norfolk
• Shoreham –  West Sussex

In order to support dog owners struggling with the current economic climate, Dogs Trust recently called upon the UK government to pause VAT on both vet services and pet food. Dogs Trust’s ‘Paws the VAT’ campaign calls for VAT exemption on all pet food and veterinary services and medicines for a 12-month period in order to ease financial pressures on pet owners and help more dogs stay with their loving families where they belong.

Dogs Trust warns that, with prices rapidly increasing, the UK is heading towards an animal welfare crisis, with 31% of dog owners worried about the cost of caring for their pet in the coming year. 54% of respondents agreed that managing vet bills would ease their concerns about taking care of their dog, while 43% said that removing VAT on pet food would help.

Inundated with desperate calls from dog owners struggling to provide for their pet, Dogs Trust has called upon the UK Government to take urgent action. The charity received more than 50,000 enquiries from owners who could no longer afford to take care of their pets in 2022 and warns that this devastating situation could get worse if the government does not take urgent action.

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Turning a dog into a shelter should be the last resort for any responsible pet owner. When you decided to purchase or adopt a dog, you made a commitment to provide that dog with a home for the rest of its life. Whatever circumstances or behavior are now causing you to back out of your commitment should be considered carefully. There may be solutions to the problems that make you feel like you need to give up your dog.

When you turn your dog over to a shelter, you lose all control over what happens to your pet. While you might think animal control will find your pet a good home, there is no guarantee of that. One woman, who turned in her four cats to animal control, had second thoughts and returned the next day to bring them back home. To her horror, one of her perfectly healthy young cats had already been euthanized because the shelter was low on space.

Even if you turn your pet into a no-kill shelter, the conditions there may still be substandard. Additionally, there is no guarantee how the pet will be treated in the home of whoever adopts them.

The right thing to do is to try to keep your pet. Below are some common reasons why people turn their pets into shelters, along with possible solutions to these problems.

Solutions to Common Pet Behavior Issues

They Chew/Destroy Belongings or Make a Mess While I’m Away (or Other Behavior Problems)

This is a common source of frustration for pet owners, but it’s also one of the most easily remedied. Be sure to provide your pet with plenty of chew toys. Praise them when they chew on their toys, so they will learn the proper way to meet their need to chew. Dogs are not “being bad” when they chew shoes or furniture—they’re simply being dogs! They must be taught what is acceptable and what is not. Obedience training may be all that is needed to stop unwanted behavior. Many local shelters offer low-cost classes.

To eliminate the problem completely, crate your dog while you are away. With proper crate training, your dog will view the crate as a place of refuge. Proper crate training can take a few weeks, so be patient.

We Have a New Baby

Unless your dog has shown aggression toward people, there is no reason to think they cannot live peacefully with your new baby. While the baby is still in the hospital, bring home an item of clothing that the baby has worn so your dog can become familiar with the scent. Always supervise interactions between the dog and your baby.

Animals and babies or small children should NEVER be left alone together, regardless of the size or breed of the animal. However, there is no need to rid the house of all pets when a baby is coming.

We Are Moving

If you had children, would you move to a place that didn’t allow children? Then why, if you have pets, would you move to a place that doesn’t allow them? Your pets are part of your family. If you need to move, there are plenty of pet-friendly housing options, and many local shelters provide lists of such places.

While there may be some extreme circumstances that require a pet owner to turn their animals over to a shelter, most people who choose to abandon their pets do so for reasons that are easily remedied.

If you find that you must rehome your pets, try to find a shelter or rescue group that is “no-kill.” At least then, you will know that your dog or cat will be offered a second chance to live with a loving family.

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What we commonly call a “dog show” is actually a conformation show—a competition to judge how well a dog conforms to the breed standard. This written description of the ideal for each breed includes not only physical traits, such as build and overall appearance, but also temperament, gait, and unique characteristics. Essentially, the question is: Is an individual dog a good representation of the breed?

Dog shows are divided into three levels of judging: breed, group, and best in show. At the breed level, a dog is judged against its peers as well as the breed standard. The dog that is deemed the best representation of its breed wins the top spot and advances to the group level. The American Kennel Club (AKC) has seven official groups: Working, Herding, Hounds, Terriers, Sporting, Non-Sporting, and Toys. There is also an unofficial Miscellaneous class that does not typically participate in shows.

At the group level, dogs are judged against one another, with the winner being the best representation of its breed. Awards are given to the top four dogs in each group, with the group winner advancing to the Best in Show ring. The Best in Show ring features only seven dogs, each judged again on how well they represent their breed. The competition is fierce—at large events like the Westminster Dog Show, held every February in New York, it’s not unusual for each dog to have already beaten 300 to 400 other dogs just to reach the Best in Show ring. And to even qualify for such a prestigious show, each of those dogs must have ranked among the top few in their breed during the previous year, effectively beating tens of thousands of dogs over the span of twelve months!

What draws a person to owning a show dog?

Sometimes, a breeder has no choice but to show their dogs. Many dogs are bred for purposes other than showing, yet they still need to become “champions” in order to be considered worthy breeding stock. In fact, some breeds are controlled within their country of origin and must hold a dual championship to be used for breeding purposes.

For example, in Germany, a German Shepherd Dog must become a champion in the show ring, demonstrating conformance to the breed standard and winning against other German Shepherds. The dog must also earn a working title. The specific title varies by breed, but for German Shepherds, it includes a level of protection dog training called Schutzhund. At the first level, no protection work is necessary, but the dog must pass an obedience test, an endurance test, and a basic tracking test. This ensures that all German Shepherds bred in Germany have the necessary “workability,” intelligence, and drive that make the breed one of the most trainable and versatile in the world.

Other working titles are available for sporting dogs, sight hounds, terriers, and herding dogs, as well as in dog sports like agility, tracking, and obedience, to name a few.

Some people are simply drawn to the dog show world. Whether it’s the desire to see their dog in the spotlight, to take home the coveted red, white, and blue Best in Show ribbon, or simply as a hobby, the dog show world offers a unique blend of sport and theater.

Owning a show dog isn’t particularly difficult, depending on the level of competition you want to pursue.

The hard part is deciding on a breed!

When looking through breed books, consider factors such as energy and exercise levels, grooming requirements, size, and the breed’s overall temperament and compatibility with other pets. For instance, if you have six cats, a Greyhound, which instinctively chases anything that moves, might not be the best choice. Also, take the overall health of the breed into account. Some breeds have suffered from overbreeding or unscrupulous breeding practices, leading to health issues. Falling in love with a breed that has a short lifespan or unaffordable vet bills can lead to heartbreak.

Not sure which breed to choose? Visit a dog show and watch the dogs in action. You may find something that catches your attention and holds it.

Once you’ve decided on a breed, the next challenge is finding a reputable breeder. You’ll want to find someone who will help you learn how to groom your dog for the show ring, train it, feed it properly, and showcase its best features while concealing any faults. Do your homework! Attend dog shows, ask questions about the breed and its breeders, read every book you can find, and join breed-specific forums as well as general dog show forums. The more you know, the better your chances of acquiring a good dog from the start and gaining a mentor in your breeder.

Here’s a hint: A good breeder keeps the best puppies for owners who are most likely to show the dog or train it for its original purpose—whether that’s hunting with a sporting breed or competing in earth trials with terriers. This increases the breeder’s reputation and the value of their breeding stock. Moreover, breeders want the best for their pups, ensuring that dogs involved in dog shows or dog sports spend plenty of time with their owners.

So, you’ve got your new pup—now what? You’ll follow pretty much the same steps as you would with any other puppy, plus some specialized training. If your breed requires specific grooming for the show ring, start getting your puppy used to brushing and handling right from day one. Most kennel clubs offer handling classes for puppies and new handlers, which is an excellent opportunity to meet people in the local dog show community and learn the ropes for when you step into the ring.

And if both you and your pup have done your homework, once you’re in that ring, it’s just a matter of collecting the ribbons!

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Caring for Orphaned Puppies: A Full-Time Commitment

Caring for puppies is a full-time job, at least for the first several weeks, and it should not be entered into lightly. Of course, in a situation like this—where planning is impossible—it might be a good idea to enlist the help of a local vet or a pet rescue organization. If you decide to take on the responsibility, there are a few things you should know.

First of all, try to assess their age. If their eyes aren’t open, they’re probably less than two weeks old. In this case, they’ll need to be kept warm. If possible, take them home in the box you found them in. They’re familiar with it, and it may provide a sense of comfort. Place a heating pad set on “low” on the floor of the box. Cover the pad with a towel. Be sure that the heating pad only takes up a portion of the box so the puppies can move away from the heat if necessary. It’s crucial to keep the puppies in a warm box, in a warm room. You’ll also find that the younger they are, the more they’ll sleep. Newborn puppies may sleep up to 90% of the time. They may even sleep on top of each other for warmth.

In the beginning, they’ll need to be fed every two to three hours. If they’re very tiny, you may need to bottle-feed them. Puppy formula, along with small bottles and nipples, can be found at your local pet store. Try to feed the puppies in the position that best matches how they would nurse from their mother. Don’t bottle-feed a puppy while it’s on its back, as the formula can get into its lungs. After feeding, you’ll need to stimulate each puppy to help them urinate or defecate. This can be done by wetting a paper towel or cotton ball with warm water, squeezing it out, and gently stroking the dog’s genitals and anal area in a manner that mimics how their mother would groom them with her tongue. This helps relax them and encourages them to produce waste.

Socializing and Training Puppies as They Grow

Around two weeks of age, the puppies will open their eyes and begin to stand and play with their littermates by week three. It’s around this time that you can increase interaction with them to help socialize them and get them used to human contact. Be very careful, as they can easily wriggle out of your grasp. For this reason, children should be supervised closely while handling puppies.

As they grow, they’ll need to be fed less frequently. By weeks two and three, they may be eating every three to four hours, and by week four, every four hours. At this point, you can slowly introduce solid food into their diet. Without a mom to show them, you’ll be responsible for teaching the orphaned puppies how to eat. Take a small amount of canned food and mix it with a little warm water to form a “puppy mush.” Place it on a saucer and put a puppy in front of it. If it eats, the other puppies will likely follow suit. If not, put a little food on your finger and encourage the puppy to lick it off. It may take some time for them to get used to this new concept, but with patience and consistency, they will soon be eating on their own.

By this time, you can also start potty training. Use newspapers to help them identify where the “safe” areas are, and praise them when they go potty in the proper location. Be sure to bring them to the area after feeding and naps, as these are the times they are most likely to need to eliminate. They’ll catch on quickly. If you place the newspapers in a small area with the puppies, where there isn’t a lot of room for them to move around, they’ll be more likely to learn the rules as they won’t want to lie in their own waste.

By week five, you can begin thickening their “mush” as you prepare to wean them off this food and onto dry food or other puppy food. At this time, they’ll also start exploring more. By now, one puppy has probably found its way out of the box. As soon as one does, the rest will likely follow. A small enclosed area is ideal for them to roam, yet not venture too far.

Weeks six and seven bring more exploring, more eating, and more growing. By week eight, the puppies are ready to leave the nest and move into loving homes.

Caring for orphaned puppies can seem overwhelming at times, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. They certainly wouldn’t have made it without your quick intervention. And seeing those wriggling little bodies and sweet faces somehow makes up for all the trouble. As much work as it’s been, it’s bittersweet when the time comes to find them loving homes. You may even realize you’d do it all over again.

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SUVs (Sport Utility Vehicles) Are Often an Excellent Choice for Pet Owners

SUVs offer several advantages over cars, making them an ideal option for pet owners:

• More interior cargo space – especially important if you have more than one dog or if you travel with multiple cats in carriers. The comfort and safety of your pets are important, and an SUV provides more room than a car.
• SUVs are durable. Your dog’s nails or muddy paws can quickly ruin your car upholstery, but SUVs are built to be tougher.
• It’s easier to keep dogs in the back, where they can’t bother you while you drive. It’s also easy to install a barrier to prevent dogs from climbing over the seats.
• Many SUVs have flat floors in the back, which is great for dogs to lie down or for using dog crates safely. This typically means the SUV has back seats that fold down flat.

In addition to these obvious advantages, you can look for other features when choosing an SUV. For example, a low bumper or tailgate height can make it easier for your dog to jump into the back of the vehicle, which is particularly important for older dogs. Most SUVs also offer various hooks or places to hang leashes or secure crates. If you prefer to use harnesses instead of crates for your dog’s safety, ensure there are enough seatbelts to attach the harnesses. Also, look for SUVs with side curtain airbags to provide protection for your pets in case of an accident.

Which SUVs Are Best for Pet Owners?

With these considerations in mind, here are some of the best SUVs and crossovers for pet owners:
Honda Element
Honda discontinued the Element in 2011, but it was extremely popular with dog owners. If you can find a pre-owned model, it can still be a great choice. The Element was one of AAA’s top picks for a pet-friendly vehicle when they made their selections in 2010. This SUV offers a large cargo area lined with durable urethane, making it easy to clean up mud and messes. The upholstery is also stain-resistant. The Element has four doors, and the rear doors open out in French-door style, providing ample room to load cat carriers or large dogs from the side. Accessories include a ramp (ideal for older dogs), second-row seat covers, and a soft-sided kennel that can be secured to the vehicle. It even includes a spill-resistant water dish and an electric ventilating fan.

Land Rover Range Rover
The Land Rover Range Rover is one of the most expensive SUVs, but it has an excellent reputation and can be a perfect choice for pet owners. If a new Range Rover is out of your budget, consider a pre-owned model. The vehicle features durable upholstery and carpeting designed for rugged use, making it ideal for pets. The Range Rover also offers a number of comfort features such as climate control and a smooth ride, keeping both you and your pets comfortable on long trips.

Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester is another SUV chosen by AAA as one of the best vehicles for pet owners. This crossover SUV is roomy for both people and pets. According to AAA, it has a stable and comfortable ride with predictable handling and reassuring traction under all conditions. The rear seats fold, offering impressive cargo space of 68 cubic feet. The floor is just 27 inches off the ground, making it lower than many SUVs and easier for dogs to get in and out. There are also ample tie-down points to secure a kennel.

GMC Yukon XL
The GMC Yukon XL is a favorite among pet owners for its versatility. Pet owners appreciate how easily the seats can be rearranged into several different configurations, which is great if you have multiple dog crates or cat carriers. The Yukon XL also has side curtain airbags in all three seating rows to protect your pets, along with more cargo room than most other vehicles in its class.

Toyota FJ Cruiser
The Toyota FJ Cruiser is also popular with pet owners. The vehicle has a rubber-lined cargo compartment, making cleanups easy, and water-resistant seats that can handle even the messiest of pets. The Cruiser features a wide rear tailgate for easy loading of large crates and French-door style side doors, which simplify loading from the side. The cost of a new FJ Cruiser is reasonable, and you can also find used models to fit many budgets.

More Pet-Friendly Options
Also recommended by AAA as pet-friendly vehicles are the Toyota Venza and the Ford Escape Hybrid. Ford discontinued the hybrid version of the Escape in 2012, but you can still find pre-owned models if you’re interested in a hybrid SUV. However, the current Ford Escape uses technology that provides better gas mileage than the hybrid version.

Test Drives
It’s always a good idea to test-drive any vehicle you’re considering. Dealers and private sellers might not allow you to bring your pets during a test drive, but it’s still important to consider your pets when evaluating the vehicle. Try out all the features that would affect your pets to ensure they’re a good fit for your needs.

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Mission: To encourage a safe, healthy, and vibrant community for people and pets through the development, education, and enforcement of bylaws that reflect community values.

Mandate: Focus on voluntary compliance with Calgary’s bylaws through education and programs that support citizens and the community.

Manage an animal shelter and provide animal control services.

Ensure compliance with the community’s bylaws.

~ City of Calgary – Animal & Bylaw Services

Why are Calgary’s animal welfare programs so successful?

“Collaboration.”

“Collaboration.”

“I can sum it up in one word – collaboration.”

These were the unanimous and uncoordinated responses from three of the top rescue organizations in the city. Bill Bruce, Director of Animal & Bylaw Services for the City of Calgary; Desiree Arsenault, Manager of Communications for the Humane Society of Calgary; and Debbie Nelson, Executive Director of MEOW, all enthusiastically agree that the success is based on various animal rescue organizations working together for the betterment of the city’s animals.

“Ten years ago, we brought everyone to the table,” explains Bill Bruce. ‘Everyone’ included veterinarians, rescue organizations, trainers, dog breeders, cat fanciers, and behaviorists. “We stopped the fighting between the organizations.”

The outdated animal services model that Calgary, and most cities, were using at the time was unsustainable.

“We needed to develop a responsible pet ownership model and asked ourselves, ‘How can we put ourselves out of a job?’” laughs Bruce.

The City of Calgary Animal Services Responsible Ownership Model Works on Four Basic Principles:

1. Pet licenses are a ‘ticket home’ for lost pets.
2. Spay/neuter family pets.
3. Provide socialization, a good diet, and ample exercise.
4. Don’t let your pet become a nuisance – address problems before they escalate.

To support the community under the umbrella of these four principles, the city developed groundbreaking programs that removed barriers and helped establish strong communication and respect for bylaw officers.

In many cities, dog licensing is viewed not as a way of returning pets to their homes but as a method of keeping track of potentially dangerous dogs. An animal control officer in Victoria, BC, was quoted by a local reporter, saying that he wanted to see all dogs licensed so that he “would know where all the pit bulls are in the city”—not to reunite lost pets with their families.

In contrast, Calgary calls their dog and cat licensing program a pet’s “ticket home.” Since the pet cat licensing program began in 2007, euthanasia has decreased by nearly 20%, and many lost animals are reunited with their families without ever stepping foot in the shelter. Instead, they are driven straight home and returned to their owners.

Although there is an impound fee, tickets are rarely issued.

“Instead, we ask how the pet got out and what we can do to help,” explains Bruce. This is a more cost-effective model for both the city and the owner, and it also reduces the chances of any negative interactions between the community and bylaw officers.

Spay and neuter programs are common in most cities, and Calgary is no different. All animals are spayed or neutered before leaving the shelter, and the number of animal intakes is dramatically lowered by providing assistance to low-income families and underserved neighborhoods.

Principles three and four of the new responsible ownership model were based on the observation that most animals turned over to shelters were socialized. These were not unwanted or feral animals—someone had taken the time to train and work with the pet. This wasn’t an overpopulation issue but a failure in the human-animal relationship. Along with the spay/neuter program, which actively lowers the number of animals in the city, it was vital to change how animals were valued and to support the community in keeping the animals they already had.

Many Ideas Sprang from This Change in Approach:

• School and public education programs developed and delivered by board-certified teachers as part of the curriculum.
• Vaccinating all animals as they enter the shelter (unless proof is provided that it is unnecessary).
• Increasing the adoptability of animals by improving their health, retraining them as needed, and rehabilitating them in some cases.
• Providing a six-month free license for all adopted animals.
• Teaching and assisting owners in recognizing early indicators of problems in their pets and helping to assess and rehabilitate the animal before it becomes an issue.

The last point is the most important—and the most difficult—part of the program. Many owners don’t recognize the early indicators of bad behavior until it escalates into a dangerous or frustrating situation that they can no longer handle. However, many of these behaviors, once recognized, can be trained out of the pet, eliminating the need to rehome, or in severe cases, euthanize an otherwise happy and healthy animal.

Problem behavior doesn’t always refer to dangerous or aggressive actions either. A barking dog can quickly lead to frustrated neighbors, nuisance orders, and eventually giving the pet up for adoption. Instead, animal services works with the owner to correct the bad behavior and keep the pet where it belongs—at home with the family.

Calgary is also unique in that they have not jumped on the Breed-Specific Legislation (BSL) bandwagon like many large cities. There are also no limits on how many animals a person can own. In both cases, a responsible owner is simply that—a responsible owner.

BSL tries to blame a breed for dangerous or aggressive behavior when, in fact, any breed can be dangerous. Pit bulls, once known as the “nanny dog” for their exceptional interactions with children, are often demonized as dangerous. In reality, if a responsible owner raised the dog, there would be no problem. Any breed of dog, if mistreated or mis-trained, can be dangerous—just ask the mailperson who was attacked and severely injured by a pack of Chihuahuas in eastern Canada.

Limiting the number of animals in a household is also unnecessary if the owner is responsible and monitors their pets’ behavior. If an owner is capable of keeping three dogs calm, well-behaved, healthy, and happy, who is to say they can’t do the same for four? However, should someone who cannot control their one dog be allowed to adopt two just because they haven’t reached their limit? Animal limits do not ensure a peaceful neighborhood; responsible ownership is what guarantees a safe, quiet, and happy community for everyone.

The Cost of Irresponsible Pet Ownership

The Calgary animal services model is a success, and one that many other communities strive to duplicate. However, there is still an exorbitant cost in providing animal rescue to a city of 1,079,310 people (2010).

There are dozens of animal rescue organizations in Calgary that collaborate to build a responsible pet ownership community. We spoke with three of them and asked them to provide accurate, measurable numbers to help demonstrate the uphill battle cities face.

Cost to run each shelter per year:

There is obviously far more involved in building a responsible pet ownership community, and the success depends on the people involved. From progressive directors who realize that a program can always be improved to the indispensable volunteers and foster families who take up the “slack” through the sheer goodness of their hearts, Calgary’s animals waiting to be rehomed are in good hands.

“Judge a society by how it treats its animals.” ~ Mahatma Gandhi

A big thanks goes out to Bill Bruce, Director of Animal & Bylaw Services for the City of Calgary, Desiree Arsenault, Manager of Communications for the Humane Society of Calgary, Debbie Nelson, Executive Director of MEOW, and ARF for assisting with this article.

Calgary Humane Society

Calgary Animal Services

Meow Foundation

ARF

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Consider Your Family’s Schedule

Today, many families have dual incomes and work outside of the home. Why is this important when purchasing a pet? For families in this situation, there may be no one home all day to let Fido out! A new puppy needs to be taken outside constantly to establish the outdoors as the potty area. Indoor training mats are a short-term solution for potty training, but you still have to be nearby to train the puppy exactly where to go and consistently reinforce correct behavior. And yes, the puppy will even need to go outside at night. If hauling your dog outside at 2:00 a.m. in the middle of winter doesn’t sound appealing, maybe wait until spring for a new pet. Take a hard look at how much time is spent at home versus away. If you are constantly away from home, whether for work or travel, think about how this will affect your dog emotionally (you are their pack!) and how it will impact you financially.

Let’s say that you decide to buy a dog. Since you’ll be at work during the weekdays, you hire a pet sitter to walk Fido each afternoon. Before hiring, you research area pet sitters to find a good, reliable caretaker. This pet sitter charges fifteen dollars per walk. At five walks per week, you’re spending seventy-five dollars per week, or three hundred dollars per month. That’s a car payment! You also want to make sure your dog is current on vaccinations, so you take them to the vet. Vaccinations, spaying or neutering, and worm medication can add up to two hundred dollars or more, depending on the services needed. The expenses begin to accumulate, especially if you take your dog to a groomer or enroll them in a dog training program. Unfortunately, dogs whose owners didn’t plan for the added expenses often end up in animal shelters. Before you buy, make sure you can fit your dog into the family budget.

Choosing the Right Dog for Your Family

What may be even more important than fitting a dog into your budget, however, is choosing a breed that fits your family’s personality. If you know you are a pushover, don’t buy a stubborn or strong-willed breed! If you have children, be sure to select a breed that is calm, docile, and forgiving. Many people make the mistake of thinking that a smaller dog will be easier to control; however, size does not always dictate behavior. Make sure to research each breed, considering size, temperament, and the home that will house the animal. While many dog breeds will do well in apartments or suburban homes, others prefer to live on a farm with cows to herd and plenty of space to run. That being said, every dog of every breed is an individual. Just like people, each puppy has its very own personality. Consider having your dog or puppy “temperament tested” by a professional dog trainer. What you find out may save you a lot of trouble down the road. If you know your dog has a nervous personality, you can plan ahead for it and avoid coming home to a half-eaten couch!

Whew, with all of that to think about, dog ownership may seem like a scary endeavor. While you can expect to lose a pair of socks to a chewing episode and maybe a few accidents on the carpet, you can also expect a companion who will love you unconditionally. Becoming a dog owner enters you into a lifelong partnership that may even teach you a few things about love, respect, and responsibility along the way. Dogs don’t care if your breath smells, whether or not you’ve showered this morning, or even that you left the entire sink full of dishes last night. They just want to be near you, get a pat now and then, and protect you from harm. Think long and hard before buying a dog, but once you do, it may surprise you just how quickly this animal becomes an invaluable member of your family.

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If you visit one of the many pet sites available, you’ll often find a helpful tool that generates a list of dogs ideal for you and your lifestyle. Unfortunately, these tools are pretty generalized and often don’t reflect the dog that would suit you best. In fact, I’ve tried dozens of these tools, and none have ever suggested the same breeds. They’ve never suggested the breed I own and have been compatible with for over 15 years.

Below are a few things to consider before choosing a breed:

It isn’t about looks:
Have you ever seen a dog and thought, “Wow, that is the breed for me, I mean, they are beautiful.” I know I have, especially when it comes to Siberian Huskies. While looks may be important for some owners, they shouldn’t be the main factor when determining breed compatibility. Sure, it’s great if you can look at your dog without cringing at its appearance, but looks aren’t everything. If you’re drawn to a breed because of its appearance, research it thoroughly. If you like what you find, that may be the perfect breed for you; if you don’t, then don’t purchase that breed. As much as I love Siberian Huskies, I know that I could never deal with many of their personality traits, especially their tendency to run away. So, I would never own one.

Popularity kills:
When it comes to dog breeds, popularity can be a disadvantage. Not because popular breeds aren’t great, but because more popular breeds often end up in shelters. This is usually due to improper breeding, or because owners don’t fully understand what they’re getting into. This becomes evident after a popular movie or TV show features a dog, and hundreds of people buy the dog only to realize it’s not the well-trained, cute pet they saw on screen. Never base your decision on a popular trend.

Exercise is key to compatibility:
Let’s face it: if you have a dog that requires a lot of exercise, it will affect how you interact with it. If you’re an energetic person who enjoys outdoor activities, a higher-energy dog may be a good match. However, if you prefer staying at home and relaxing, you might not enjoy the company of a dog that’s bursting with energy. When researching breeds, check the energy levels of the dog and choose one that aligns with your approach to exercise.

The 5-minute shower:
Every morning, my husband is in and out of the bathroom in about 10 minutes. I, on the other hand, take quite a bit longer (okay, a lot longer) to get ready. So, what does this have to do with dog breeds? Simple: if you prefer a dog that only requires 10 minutes of grooming, you won’t want a long-haired breed that needs extensive care. Before purchasing a puppy, think about your grooming preferences. Do you just want to wipe your dog down once a month, or are you okay with a more involved grooming routine? This decision will significantly influence your breed choice.

Life is full of style:
Believe it or not, your lifestyle plays a crucial role in assessing breed compatibility. If you’re home most of the time, you may prefer a breed that is more dependent. On the other hand, if you work long hours, you’ll want a breed that is more independent. Think about your lifestyle and research the breeds that interest you to see if they fit. Are they good with kids? Can they be left alone? Do they require a lot of care? Make sure to assess every aspect of your life to ensure the dog will fit in.

Timidness doesn’t always work:
Finally, let’s discuss the training aspect. If you’re new to dog ownership, you may want to choose a breed that isn’t as difficult to train or control. Some breeds are known for being stubborn and for following an alpha mentality. If you know that you won’t be able to assert control, it’s best to cross off certain breeds from your list.

Once you’ve assessed your breed compatibility, take the time to meet with breeders and current owners to get a firsthand look at the breed. They’ll be happy to share the good, the bad, and the ugly about their breed, and you’ll know whether you’re truly compatible and ready for life with a new dog.

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Figuring out how to conquer pet odors is mostly common sense. A clean pet sleeping in clean bedding in a clean house is not going to smell.

Conquering Pet Odors at the Source

A clean smelling dog is more then just clean fur. Dirty ears, eyes, mouths, feet, fur and bottoms all contribute to the dog smell in a home.

Clean Ears for a Pet Odor Free Home

Dog ears are a lovely haven for several types of smelly bacteria. They are warm, wet and cozy caves that are often not part of a cleaning regime. That is, until there is a problem and once a problem arises, it is off to the vet.

Why not save yourself some money and keep your dog’s ears clean? Weekly cleanings help keep ears free of black goo, sweet smelling and healthy. It also helps you to be aware of a potential problem at the earliest stage, speeding up the recovery time as well as the cost of medicine. Speak with the staff at your veterinary clinic to see which ear cleaner they recommend and more information on how to clean your dog’s ears.

Clean Eyes for a Pet Odor Free Home

Eye boogers smell bad. It is an odd thing to say but it is true. Even healthy eyes produce eye boogers and depending on how and on what your pet removes them, over time they can affect the air quality in your home.

They are also a good way of monitoring your pet’s overall health. Eye boogers should be a slightly grey to brown color with a moist consistency. Green or yellow eye boogers or excessive quantities can indicate an eye infection or that something else is going on with the eye.

Wash your pet’s face each morning with a damp paper towel and carefully remove any excess eye boogers. Not only are you monitoring your pet’s health, but you are also making sure that any stinky eye boogers end up in the garbage and not all over your carpet.

A Clean Mouth for a Pet Odor Free Home

Humans brush their teeth once or twice daily to maintain a healthy and fresh smelling mouth. We also chew gum, suck on mints, floss and who knows what all else in order to remain socially acceptable.

Pets lick their bottoms. Dogs chew on bones and stinky rawhides. After eating their dinner, many pets wipe their faces on the carpet or furniture and when they sleep, they drool onto their pillows.

As pets age, their mouths become hot beds of bacteria and decay if left unchecked. The majority of older pet odor comes from a their mouth and before long, that smell is now throughout your house.

Why not prevent your pet the discomfort of gingivitis and tooth decay while keeping your house smelling fresh and clean? It is easy. Brush your pet’s teeth once a day and offer them breath freshening treats throughout the day. Not only will it save your pet the pain and discomfort of dental cleanings and tooth removal, it will help keep your house clean and smelling pet-free.

Clean Feet for a Pet Odor Free Home

Healthy pet feet are not a large contributor to pet odor in the house but they can track in some pretty stinky smells. When your pets come in from the great outdoors, wipe their paws to ensure they did not step in anything grim and that any mud and dirt stays off the carpet.

Handling your pet’s feet in this way when they are young also has the added benefit – they become used to it and do not fuss over being touched. Throughout their long healthy life, it will help you trim toenails and discover any potential conditions developing early that could cause problems later on.

Clean Fur and a Fur Free House for a Pet Odor Free Home

Clean fur that is free of dead coat is a vital part of your pet’s overall health.

Cats normally look after this for us and all we need to do to keep the house smelling fresh is to vacuum regularly. Longhaired cats do need to be brushed regularly but very few actually need to be bathed.

Dogs on the other hand need us to intervene now and then for a good shampoo to stay clean and healthy. Over-shampooing is not good either as it can make the skin produce more oils so moderation is the key. How often does your pet need to be bathed? Let your nose be the decision maker. Once they start to smell a bit doggy, its time.

Brushing is another secret weapon to conquering pet odor. Dead fur smells and although it takes a lot of dead fur to really stink up a house, by brushing the dead coat out and regularly vacuuming to suck up what fur is naturally shed, you will find your house stays cleaner and much fresher.

Clean Bottoms for a Pet Odor Free Home

Most of us avoid looking at our pet’s bottom and for good reason. However, that can be a sight for many bad pet odors.

Longhaired cats and dogs can have a hard time keeping the area clean, especially if they are suffering from a bout of diarrhea. If you know they have just gone the bathroom, save yourself some work and give them a quick inspection to make sure they are not going to leave behind anything stinky when they then sit on the wall-to-wall carpet.

The other concern is anal glands in dogs. Anal glands are natural lubricators to help ease the stool along that should release only when the dog defecates. Many breeds however are prone to infections and abscesses of the anal glands and that is a stink that will make any house uninhabitable.

Have your vet check their anal glands as part of your dog’s bi-yearly physical – a healthy bottom is a stink-free bottom.

The Common Sense Part of a Pet Odor Free Home

• If you have bathed your dog, why not wash his bedding? In fact, why not wash his bedding every week when you wash your own? Is his bed looking at little rough and the stuffing starting to smell? Why not buy him a new one and lower the stink level?
• Kitty litters are a chore – no doubt about it. Giving them a twice daily cleaning, however, keeps the work to a 30 second scooping. Your cat will love you for it and so will your nose!
• Vacuum cleaners suck up a lot of stink from your pet so what if you were to replace the bag or empty the canister after each time you vacuum? Done more regularly, it becomes a quick job instead of a major process and helps keep the old, dead fur smell out of your closets.
• Do you have furnace with a filter in your house? Why not change that as instructed or even more frequently? Keep the house smelling fresh by circulating clean air.
• Has your dog rolled in something gross? Take them to a you-bathe dog washing facility and keep the smell out of your house.

Owning a pet does not have to mean your house smells like them. Common sense and staying on top of the smell will help keep the work to a minimum.

Another bonus? You do not need to shampoo your carpets, guaranteeing they will last longer while looking better!

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When I was growing up, the dogs my friends’ families had were often lucky just to make it inside the house, let alone be offered a luxuriously soft place to sleep—covered with toys no less. But research has proven that improvements to a dog’s nutritional standards and level of comfort not only improve their quality of life, but also their longevity. Buying a dog bed today has become the standard for raising a happy and healthy pup who will stick around for many years to come.

A dog’s bed also becomes his “place.” Just as the rest of the pack has a place to call their own, giving your dog his own space allows him to recoup when things within the pack are unsettling. An argument, a serious illness, or a new addition to the pack can all be very stressful for your dog. Giving him his own space helps him understand his role in the pack, making him feel more secure and less likely to challenge for better places in the pack.

Dog beds are especially comforting for dogs with physical difficulties, such as back or hip issues, arthritis, or degenerative bone or disk diseases. Keeping them off the floor allows them a better night’s rest and helps maintain daily comfort. Just like a human with a bad back wakes up feeling stiff and sore, our pups can as well. How likely are you to sleep on the floor knowing your back is going to feel like a freight train ran over it in the morning?

The Process of Buying the Right Dog Bed

The process of buying a dog bed should be simple, right? You just head to the store and pick up something comfy. That used to be the case when dog beds were more of a rare treat than the norm. However, over the last ten years or so, dog bed design has become anything but standard. In fact, you can spend anywhere from $15 to a whopping $400 on a dog bed, and that’s just the mattress.

Most of the dog beds you’ll find in typical chain stores are fairly predictable. You’ll see cute little ovals with an entryway cut-out along one side, flat beds, fluffy beds, beds with pillows, and some that are essentially just pillows.

Designer dog beds are also becoming more popular. Some beds look just like small sofas, as though you’re offering your little guy some consolation for being banned from the most comfortable bed in the house—your couch. Others look like rhinestone-studded people beds (usually in some shade of pink) or even come with matching puppy slippers.

Most of us know that we tend to humanize our dogs a little too much, but we accept this because that’s part of what makes them so lovable. After all, many of us would pay a handsome fee just to spend one hour inside our dogs’ minds, trying to understand what on earth goes on there. Some of us admit it would just be way too confusing. Part of the humanizing factor is purchasing items for the dog that we know they don’t need, but that remind us of their human qualities—and make us feel good because it’s cute, cool, or very unique.

Dog beds are no different. Is there any harm in buying a bed for your dog that resembles a sofa? Of course not, as long as it provides ample support, is the right size for the dog, and is reasonable enough in design so that your dog will actually use it.

However, most dog beds lack proper support. Even small dogs tend to weigh more than the pressure of our hand, and when we push down on a bed that gives too easily, we’re not keeping them off the floor. Fluffy but firm is the key to buying a dog bed that’s comfortable. You want them to curl up in their natural sleeping positions and remain off the floor enough to receive back support. A bed that is too fluffy will simply encourage your dog to tumble off if he moves around.

It may take more than one try to find the perfect dog bed. However, you shouldn’t plunk down a ton of cash on a bed for a dog that has never had the option to sleep in one. There’s an ironic frustration in purchasing a $200 dog bed that looks good, feels comfy enough, and alleviates your guilt after booting them from your own bed—only for them to refuse to use it. Start simple and realistically inexpensive while maintaining comfort. If your dog uses it religiously, there’s a high likelihood they’ll use a more expensive bed should you buy one. Some dogs just won’t, and that’s their choice, meaning you have nothing to feel guilty about when you deny their adorable antics in a desperate attempt to rekindle their love affair with your sheets.

When buying a dog bed, using common sense will go a long way. You want your dog to use it, and you know your dog best. Is he easily frightened by new experiences? Then stay away from overly gaudy designs. Is he happy-go-lucky with an innate sense of self-pride? Then step up the design a bit if you choose. Match the style of the bed with the comfort level, the size of the dog, and his personality, and there shouldn’t be anything standing between your dog and a good night’s sleep.

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