Pet Party Line is a column written by Beth Byrd and is featured weekly in The Citizen News, one of our local newspapers.

Are You Ready to Adopt?

• Reason: Friend, companion, playmate, competition partner - these are all good reasons to get a dog. “Because it’s cute” is not.
• Room: Dogs need room to play and exercise, even it it’s a public park. Active dogs need lots of room. And while large dogs can live in an apartment, the two of you might feel cramped.
• Time: Expect to devote several hours a day to playing with, training, caring for and monitoring a new puppy or dog. And be ready to spend time every day for up to the next 15 years with your dog.
• Money: It doesn’t need to be a lot, but you’ll have to budget money every month for food, supplies and care. And the one-time “startup costs” for a new puppy can add up as do the annual shots.
• Patience: Dogs need to learn, and they’re going to make mistakes. It will take a lot of repetition and praise - not anger and scolding.
• Environment: Your home will be to be equipped and prepared. That means getting supplies ahead of time and dog-proofing your home.
• Responsibility: Puppies and dogs need regular interaction and care. Like children they like routine. You or someone in your family will have to take personal responsibility for your pet’s well-being.

Quote of the week:

"What dogs? These are my children, little people with fur who make my heart open a little wider." - Oprah Winfrey