So, let’s talk pets. I have a stray cat that showed up at my house one day. I have a barn cat that I got from my boss just before Halloween and I have a St. Bernard that I bought for $1000. I have the full gamut. I love my dog to pieces, but, I will definitely be looking for a shelter dog next time around. I think mix breed, shelter dogs have less health problems, unless you get an elderly dog.
My Saint has to have special food that does not have chicken in it because he gets ear infections. $72 for a bag of food. Ouch! Six cups of food a day. Ouch, ouch! He has a raised feeder so his stomach doesn’t twist. But he is a great dog to be around. Fun, loving and lazy unless his grandpa is around then he runs around like a tornado. Outside.
My dad has an Australian shepherd that he got from the shelter. He is the most well-behaved dog. He is an older dog but walks around 4 miles per day keeping my dad in shape. He didn’t play before my dad got him so they had fun learning together.
My last two dogs were a shelter dog, collie mix and a puppy from an oops litter that we got for $10. He was a lab mix. A great dog. He wouldn’t go to the bathroom in the yard, he had to find high grass. The collie mix was incredibly sweet and fat. Before that, I had two more St. Bernards. One with epilepsy. Definitely my favorite breed but they come with issues.
I also think it is hard to come by a real breeder these days. Mostly just people with two dogs that they breed. Not true breeders that know the ins and out of the dog, and knows their lineage. Of course, you are going to pay good money for a well-bred dog.
Shelters are full of animals in need of homes. They come from so many backgrounds and its heart lifting to save one. They seem to be the most appreciative animals. So many little personalities.
Cat ownership is new to me. Although I’ve had “Cat” for four years. I had never had a cat growing up. I’m still learning all the things you don’t do. Occasionally ending up scratched in multiple places. I’m a slow learner… I didn’t know something so little could be so resistant to being put in a carrier. “Fold him up in a towel” everyone told me after having my belly scratched like I was being gutted.
All three of them, Loki, Spook and Cat get along very well. Although Loki and Cat have a deeper affection for each other. I think they gang up on Spook because he is young and energetic. Spook is always picking on Cat trying to get her to play. She is always hissing and growling at him. Then Loki comes in and plays interference and chases Spook away. It is amusing to watch.
I love pet ownership. I encourage anyone willing to put in the time and effort to get a pet. Cats are much easier then dogs as far as care. At least mine are. I suppose if you have a long-haired cat you would have to groom it but I’m lucky enough to have two short haired cats. They pretty much take care of themselves. Give them food, water and a couple litter boxes they are good to go. Loki requires feeding, grooming, petting, playing and picking up doggy landmines in the yard. I’ve pretty much gotten to the point that I just mow over the things. Hope they don’t fly in too many directions.
Own a pet. You won’t regret it. You learn so much from them and their individual personalities. If you have any questions let me know. I did spend a few years as an animal control officer so I do have some knowledge. As always, live life to the fullest!
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