Yes, we have a backyard. Yes there is a park nearby. But, grrr, a dog changes our lifestyle and responsibilities, doesn't it?
2007-01-26 09:37:56 · 18 answers · asked by wizebloke 7 in Family & Relationships ➔ Family
Didn't having children change your lifestyle? I think having a dog or really any pet can build your children's self-esteem. It also teaches them responsibility for something else on earth Pets are excellent character builders. I think all children should have and be responsible for a dog.
2007-01-26 10:16:31 · answer #1 · answered by gg19398 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
There are Lots of dogs that need Temporary foster homes before finding permanent homes. Perhaps you'd like to try that, Instead of or Before deciding to get your own dog. That way your children could learn responsible dog ownership, and you could not have the lifetime commitment to the animals. I think that's what I'd look into. Also, here are some articles that you would do well to consider with your children before any of that:
Pets--How Do You View Them? :
~ Animals--A Gift From God
~ Pets--Keeping a Balanced View of Them
~ Animals--A Pleasure Forever!
http://watchtower.org/library/g/2004/2/22a/article_01.htm
To use if & when this URL is modified : http://watchtower.org/search/search_e.htm
2007-01-26 18:13:04 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I agree. Dogs are a part of your family and a huge responsibility. I respect your reserve in not giving in to your children's whims and being logical...if only more parents were like that! My suggestion, get them a fish...or a turtle...or a bird, something that is totally their responsibility to take care of, feed, clean, etc. Puppies are cute but they're a big responsibility, and most kids aren't ready for that. Explain to your children that they need to prove they can be good parents, they need some experience before taking on an animal with so many needs. If they prove to be able to take care of their small pet, then maybe they'll be ready to graduate on to a more involved type of caregiving. Personally I think it's a great lesson for every kid to learn. I think every child should have a pet to take care of before they become parents. It gives them an idea what they're up against. Hope this helps!
2007-01-26 17:51:37 · answer #3 · answered by Sympathetic 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
How old are the kids? Suggest the volunteer at local shelter if they are old enough, but you go first and ask the shelter to ensure the kids also get some of the not so fun jobs to. Make them volunteer a reasonable time. Then maybe you could try being one of those family that just take a pet in for a short time why it is recovering and see how that goes, Then you will be able to tell if they are ready. That goes for you to
2007-01-26 17:47:10 · answer #4 · answered by path2631 4 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Doggie do do.. need i say more..
that is the worse.. i have always had a dog.. but i can't stand to clean up the mess...
maybe what you could do is.. it will either work in your favor or it could back fire but its work a shot.. ask a friend who has a dog if you could dog sit.. so the kids will know the responsibility.. they have to get up to take them for a walk.. feed them..clean up after them.. they may not like it so much when they see all that stuff the need to do..
2007-01-26 17:46:59 · answer #5 · answered by Shy 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Explain to them how important and the responsibility of taking care of a pet is. Let them know that right now is not a good time, depending their ages, and activities that they are doing, the dog might get left out. Good luck.
2007-01-26 18:50:54 · answer #6 · answered by tigerprincess_bee 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Tell them they can get a dog after they get out of college. Otherwise with dog lifespans and college dorm rules, it'll just end up being your dog anyways.
And also tell them about responsibility. Our dog had puppies and sure, they were cute and cuddly, but they were expensive and cleaning up after them was gross and constant. Dogs need shots, unless you want to kennel your dog your dog comes on the vacation and that means no Disney...
Of course, we currently have two dogs and adore them, but it's a big responsibility and a big change on vacation style.
2007-01-26 17:49:26 · answer #7 · answered by kiddo 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Start telling them all the responsibilities they will have with the dog, chores at home, homework etc. I assure you they will think it twice before having a dog - But if they still insist let them have the dog - be strict with all the rules. If they don't do their work then you take back the dog.
2007-01-26 18:01:09 · answer #8 · answered by Taz 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Having a dog is a great thing because it is like having a child that never grows up and is always relying on you to take care of him/her.
Your children need to understand the important resposibilities of having a dog because not only do they need to be cared for, but they also need tons of love as well...remember dogs are not our pets, but part of our family.
2007-01-26 18:05:40 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
Tell them they must also own a shovel and use it no matter what the weather is like. If you want your lawn fertilized, you will fertilize it yourself. On a snowy or rainy day tell them pretend they have a dog. See who jumps up first to rush outside with a shovel in hand.
2007-01-26 18:31:17 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋