This may seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised at how many people get a dog only to keep it chained up, with very little interaction other than during the daily feedings. Your dog will be happier and healthier – two key components of a long life – if you regularly take time to shower her with attention and affection. A scratch behind the ears or a belly rub can go a long way!
Consider expanding your family.
Depending on your lifestyle, you may want to consider having two dogs. (It’s definitely not something you want to undertake if you’re not sure you could handle it, though. Two pets mean double the attentions, precautions, and financial commitments.) Dogs can be the best of friends and can help keep each other active and involved. Their playtimes can be not only very entertaining for you, but valuable exercise for them.
It’s a big investment to have a dog – financially, emotionally, physically, just about every way possible. But the rewards are endless. It pays to take care of such an investment, and with the help of your veterinarian and a few simple preventative measures, you can enjoy its returns for many, many years.