 I was confused. Had been living with a guilt for last so many years. Guilt for not saying yes to my sons to bring a pet at home. Not that I am not an animal lover but when it comes to be a part of dog lovers community I simply don’t have the courage to take on this huge responsibility. I am not adverse to the thought but yes I don’t have the commitment coming from inside to take care of a dog. All I can say is I am yet not prepared.
My sons convinced me in all possible manner and promised me to look after the dog themselves. I somehow knew it was not going to happen that way and the dog would become my extended duty. I refused sternly though felt pained doing so. My kids openly showed their anger. Thankfully my husband did not show any interest when boys cribbed about my forced wish on them.
In the meantime my elder one went to hostel for his further studies and I thought now that would bring an end to the topic. I was wrong. Last week my younger son broke the news to me, ” Do you know we are going to buy a pup?”
I was surprised,”But your father has never discussed it to me? Who will take care of him?” my next question.
“That you leave it to us. You need not worry.” replied my son.
I kept quiet and came to my room. To change my mood I started checking my notifications on wordpress app of my phone. As soon as I saw a comment from one of the most admirable person I have met here in the blogging world I started reading it. She gave me a very valuable and practical advice on pets. Actually this was a reply to my guilt which I mentioned to her on her pet post. Her reply gave me clear insight on pet issue.
She said, ”  Bring a pet when you are ready. Too many people get dogs, discover they are too much work, and dump them into shelters or abandon them. Better to know your limits. Better for you, better for the dog.”
She further suggested, “Kids are very fickle about pet care, so don’t let them talk you into something for which you are not ready.  Let them understand that it is not just the few months of cute puppyhood. It is a lifetime care. If your sons are fickle minded don’t go for it until you are ready. You need the right dog, too, one that is the right size and temperament for your life. It’s like marrying the right person.”
For me this was like a powerful suggestion which gave me confidence. I quickly made up my mind, called my son and made him read this to understand the issues involved. Hopefully he is able to take the right decision. I thank you Marilyn for much needed advice.
6 Responses
My daughter badly wants a dog, but I know that there’s a chance that she may decide she’s bored of it so, as long as there’s that chance I hesitate.
They should understand that bringing a pet is one thing and buying toys another. You cannot dump them after getting bored.
Exactly, heck even as much as I want one I know what i am getting myself into :-\
This is a subject on which I am passionate. There are MILLIONS AND MILLIONS of dogs and cats in shelters and on the street. All over the world. Because someone took home a cute kitten or puppy and fell out of love with it. They die in gas chambers, of lethal injection, starvation, neglect, or abuse … all because someone couldn’t say no to their kids — or spontaneously decided — without any thought to the long-term consequences — it would be “fun to have a puppy.” I wish more people would take the advice to heart. A lot of dogs and cats would be saved from an ugly death.
I’ve learned this lesson over and over again… Okay I thought I learned it a few times, then I made the mistake a few more times, but now I know. Mom always ends up as the caregiver. If you don’t want to have the responsibility for 12 years or more, say NO.
Good to have a clear mind.