A Second Dog?

You and your furry four legged best friend have bonded and you have a good routine worked out. But a lot of Covid restrictions have now been removed and you may have to start going back to the office, either on a regular or part time basis.

Going back to work outside of your home means your furry friend will be home alone. If you have followed previous suggestions, this may not be so hard on your pet but, if not, you may find your pup experiencing separation anxiety.

With this scenario, you may think that it’s a good idea to get a second dog to help keep your pup occupied and give him some company during the day. But before you jump the gun and go out and adopt a new furry friend, please take the time to think things through very carefully.

The first thing you need to consider is whether or not you are going to have enough time to devote to both pups. You still need to take the time to walk and exercise your pups on a regular daily basis. Having two pups that may or may not spend time playing with each other all day does not relieve you of your responsibility to walk with them and teach them manners.

The next thing you need to consider is the cost of food and treats for your pups. Large breed pups obviously require more food than small breed dogs and a good quality food is not cheap.

Then you need to consider vet costs for your pups. Regular yearly exams, required immunizations, and flea and tick control products are only part of keeping your pets healthy and safe each year, and now you will have to consider doubling this amount. You also need to factor in such things as emergencies, illnesses or allergies. All these things can tally up to a hefty vet bill.

If you feel that you are able to physically and financially care for more than one dog, and have the time to devote to both of them, then go ahead and start looking.

When looking to get another pup, you would be wise to choose one of the opposite sex, which is generally the best fit. You also need to try and get a new pup with the same type of physical activity needs. In other words, don’t get a young rambunctious puppy when you have an older, more subdued dog. If possible, it’s always a good idea to foster to adopt, so you can see just how well the two pups will get along.

So if you decide that another pup would be a good fit in your family, think things over very carefully and take your time to find the right pup for your current pup and your family.