Tag: pet

Getting a dog is not a decision to be made on a whim. So, before presenting the idea to your husband or wife, show that you’ve fully thought through each aspect of having a dog. Here are some things to take the time to consider:

  1. Dogs take a lot of time and energy: You could impress your spouse by showing that you know how much time and work it takes to raise a dog. Take it one step further and put plans in place.

Our two dogs—what my wife and me considered our first "children"—graduated to the dog park in the sky.

Ivy, a 16-year-old blue Merle Australian shepherd, and Hunter, a 14-year-old black chow shepherd mix, lived long, relatively healthy lives. However, in the end, we felt we had to assist them along their journey allowing them to leave with dignity and not suffer unduly.

Both Ivy and Hunter were adopted after an early life of abuse. Ivy sprung back very well after she adjusted to her new family.

You and your spouse have been discussing it, and have come to the conclusion that you are both ready to take the plunge. It’s time to bring an addition into your family—a pet!

Whether it’s just you and your spouse or if you have children, getting a pet should not be a decision that’s made on the spur of the moment. Putting great thought into it, before making any final decisions, will be seriously beneficial to everyone in the long run.

It's interesting that pets are often granted a level of unconditional love that many spouses can only dream of receiving. What would happen if you made a conscious effort to treat your spouse as well as you treat your family pet? Try these simple tips and see what happens.

1. Show some enthusiasm. After a long day at the office, greet your spouse with the same enthusiasm you exhibit when you see your pet for the first time since breakfast. Use the same smile, give him a big hug (even before you hug the dog) and act happy to see him walk through the door.