Family Pets

For anyone who might have noticed, I have been absent from my blog for the last couple of days - apologies. You might have figured out my why by the title for this post. We have a new member of our family by way of a 3-month old Shih Tzu. And, he is just about the cutest little guy ever - black and white with the most adorable face! Petey (short for Peter the Great which should be Peter the Petite: ) has taken over our household in less than 48 hours. This brought to mind today's post. Petey is adding a special presence to our home, but he is requiring a LOT of care: many potty trips outside; scheduled feedings; lots of play dates; grooming time; already a scheduled visit to the doggy doctor; and not nearly enough rest time for mommy yet.

I think many families can greatly benefit from adding a family pet. But, there are so many considerations that should go into that decision. WHO will be responsible for the various needs of the new pet? A child agreeing to "do everything" in order to obtain the new pet isn't very realistic. Is the pet you've selected a good size choice for your family and living arrangements? Is it a breed whose temperament is compatible with children? And, don't forget any allergy or asthma sufferers in you family. There are many breeds out there that these health issues don't come into play. So, be prudent before adding that new pet so that it will be a sound, healthy and happy decision for ALL!