Since whatever age, I cannot remember when, I have wanted a dog, particularly a dalmatian.

I was never allowed because I'm disabled and can't walk far and sometimes not at all, I also spent a long time in hospital and it wasn't fair to keep one.

The other argument has always been, when we go away, what would we do with it? etc. I'm at college, mum and dad work, sister's at school.

However, I was recently told that I could foster an old, disabled dalmatian that wouldn't need too much walking, more love. If we get on and we feel we could, we'll be allowed to keep it.

My mum has (not officially) agreed to fostering if we're approved and then decide later whether we keep it, my dad's still not too happy but still hoping.

I don't go out a lot, I'm out on Wednesdays babysitting, I sometimes go out for other nights babysitting too. Other than that I'm out a maximum of 8am - 4:45pm at college, sometimes not even that much.

I have a friend who said that when she can she'd look after it because she loves dogs and used to have her own.

We know where it could sleep, I would buy food etc. but I just wanted some dog owners to tell me other scenarios that I need to think about so that I know I'm doing the right thing if I go for it.

I love dogs but I would never own one if I wasn't a fit dog owner because it's not fair on the pet.

Thanks,
Lottie x

be very carefull before you commit to buying adog, a lot of time is needed in having most pets but a dog esp. walking at regular times, injections ete all take quite a bit of time so make sure you have it. other than that good luck and hope if you get one that your dog becomes a good companion.:thumbsup:

food costs, injections, regular walks, vet fees, and kennel fees if you need to go on holiday or into hospital. really think about it,
dalmations are prone to deafness and arthritis so would check it out firts. good luck if you decide to go ahead.:thumbsup:

Thanks, I've already thought about it which is why fostering it first would be perfect because then I wouldn't commit and give a dog a bad home if I was no good.

Savbaby, I know they're prone to deafness and arthritis, but although a deaf dog would be very difficult to keep control of I should imagine, I'd never say no to a dog because it had arthritis. I have joint problems along with many other health problems and so I would never reject a dog on the grounds it was disabled. It's just not fair, they're still worth having just as much as any able bodied dog. (Ok my mum might be disappointed seeing as she wants to go for runs with it!)

Thanks for the advice.

Originally posted by Lotti
Thanks, I've already thought about it which is why fostering it first would be perfect because then I wouldn't commit and give a dog a bad home if I was no good.

Savbaby, I know they're prone to deafness and arthritis, but although a deaf dog would be very difficult to keep control of I should imagine, I'd never say no to a dog because it had arthritis. I have joint problems along with many other health problems and so I would never reject a dog on the grounds it was disabled. It's just not fair, they're still worth having just as much as any able bodied dog. (Ok my mum might be disappointed seeing as she wants to go for runs with it!)

Thanks for the advice.

my mate has 2 dalmations that are deaf, they are fantastic. i wouldnt knock back any dog for any reasons unless they were vicious. good luck and if you get one and need help you can pm me, i have loads o spare time to share :thumbsup:

Good on you for fostering a dog, I have fostered twice and it is rewarding, and very sad when (if?) the dog leaves, but at least you know it is going to a good home.

One of the things I noticed is that you will be out of the house from 8am to 4:45pm that's nearly 8 hours. A dog shouldn't really be left for more than 4-5 hours at a time, they need toilet breaks and a little bit of human interaction. Will somebody be coming home to let the dog out on the garden or a walk at dinner? If not, can you get a dog walker? When I worked full-time we had a friend that popped in at dinner and let them out and took them for a walk/toilet break. It worked well.

I agree, I wouldn't have a dog because of potential health problems, but you need to think about cost of any future health fees for these problems and whether you can afford them. We have insurance for both of our dogs, which covers most aliments, is this something you could afford?

Other ongoing costs are: Flea treatment, worming tablets, annual boosters, kennel cough (if you are boarding the dog), boarding fees for holidays, dog food and dog treats.

Lastly, you need to think about the dog and how dependant it is on you. You have to ensure it is fed, it likes your company, you need to go out for walks in rain, snow, sleet and sometimes sunshine!

Make sure you are prepared financially and you realise what a commitment you are taking on.

Sorry, I've gone on a bit. If you need anymore advice or info PM me.

A dog is not just for christmas :nono:



There's got to be some left for boxing day :hihi:

Do you know where you're getting your dog from?

If not, I can put you in touch with a couple of breeders (breeders sometimes have their own dogs back from families going through divorce or illness). They are also the best people to offer specific advice about common ailments and breed-specific characteristics

Best Advice......Don't!!!

if you have the love and comittment go ahead but realise it isnt easy.

dalmatians are active dogs , so even if yours is elderly, check if you can give it the exercise it needs and IS USED TO.

also elderly dogs are just like people, they have their own ways and likes and dislikes and can be less adaptable than younger dogs

get to know this dog before you commit

good luck

Thanks to everyone.

I know about the whole worming, vet fees etc. because of the cats.
I do know where we'll be getting it from and I've spoken to the lady who said that there are dogs that would suit me because they need less exercise, so I'm not too worried about that.
As far as getting to know the dog, that's why I'm fostering first to make sure a) we get along and b) I'll be able to give it the time it deserves.

The time issue of me being out is something that has concerned me, my mum works too but not as long most of the time and my dad owns his own business so is at home a lot.
However, these aren't certain so I do have a friend who lives just up the road and is at uni. She has loads of free time and is looking forward to me having a dog so she can go take it for walks and toilet breaks!

On Mondays and Thursdays, I can leave at 10, on Tuesdays I get home at 3:30, and on Wednesdays I leave at 8am and get back at 10:30 so I will have loads more time then!

We are also hoping to get an extension on the house which will mean it is impossible for anyone to get to the back garden without going through the house so when this happens, the dog will have free rule of the garden for as long as s/he wishes!

My parents have had a dog before when I was a baby. Harry had behavioural problems and was NOT the easiest dog so my parents have had experience with how difficult it can be and have only just agreed to trying it out on a foster basis.

I have just emailed the woman again, and I know that I could at least give it a try!
I'm so scared that I won't be approved for fostering. We're not so lucky with the size of our house and although we have a huge garden, it's not safe and secure, it's just fenced and gated but until the extension, people can still get in.

Thanks again,

Savbaby, when you said you had loads of time, what did you mean for? for sending more advice or to actually help out? It just confused me tis all!

Lottie

You've obviously already thought this all through in great detail.

I say 'go fo it!'

You will only know for sure that you've done the right thing when you 'foster' this doggie.

I guess they are a bit like babies - They won't come with an instruction manual but you will pick it up naturally.

Good luck! (Let us know how it goes).

thanks Deavon!

I'm still working on my parents - at first it was a possibility, now it seems the idea of it is less appealing...

I'll let you know.

Lottie

I think it sounds like a great idea, you seem to have thought about it more that most people do! If you find for any reason you're in a jam and need a walker for the dog, I would be happy to pop round and help. Good luck!

Don't get a dog, unless you are deffinately prepared to clean up it's poo at least twice a day, everyday it's with you.
I am so sick( not accusing you of being one) of owners who just look away when thier dog leaves mess all over the pavement, for my toddler to walk/fall in.So many times it has been walked all over the house, before being noticed.Drives me absoloutly MAD!
If you are intending to be a good dog owner. then go for it.

Don't worry Peakma, I wouldn't leave it for your toddler to toddle in!

I hate it when I see dog owners who don't clear it up! It makes me sick, I think: 'I'd be willing to do that and yet I can't have one and they can!'

I've had plenty of experience with poop, rabbit poop, cat poop (cleaning a colostomy everyday, poop!)

So don't worry, dog poop won't make a difference!

Originally posted by Lotti
Since whatever age, I cannot remember when, I have wanted a dog

Why? What for?

So don't worry, dog poop won't make a difference!


To you? Or people that want to sit on the grass in parks everywhere risking toxacara etc? And you'll look so pathetic with a mutt on a lead in one hand and a plastic bag in the other...

Originally posted by Aaarrrggghhh
To you? Or people that want to sit on the grass in parks everywhere risking toxacara etc?

Do you know many people who want to sit on the grass risking toxacara? How strange.

Originally posted by Deavon
Do you know many people who want to sit on the grass risking toxacara? How strange.

Whos a clever girl then?

Look out - skull vs. pink hippo thing !!

Originally posted by Aaarrrggghhh
Why? What for?

To you? Or people that want to sit on the grass in parks everywhere risking toxacara etc? And you'll look so pathetic with a mutt on a lead in one hand and a plastic bag in the other...


I'd far rather have a yukky plastic bag of my dog's "muck" in my hand, than to know that I have left it in the street/ park/ wherever for little susie or little johnny to tread in, and trail it into their house/ get it on their clothes.

I would not want my kids trailing someone else's dog-muck into my place, so I won't leave my dog's muck for someone else to trail into theirs.

If my dog does happen to "go" in the street (he usually "goes" on my own garden, before his walk) then, I have a ready supply of nappy sacks and a poopy-scooper with me (even when he's not with me! Many's the time i have passed a bag to other dog owners who have inadvertantly left their own poopy scoops at home) to enable me to clear up after him.

The toxocara -blindness thing is a non-issue with my own dog, as he is regularly checked and wormed. the sad thing is, not every owner is that responsible.

but, whether or not others are at risk of T-C, if my dog has pooped I will remove the unpleasant "gift", and dispose of it properly.

There's someone who walks their huge dog, along my street, and it is always leaving these really "Pleasant" (NOT!) massive parcels all over the pavement, the disgusting gits, it makes me really mad. It's always in such a position that it is hellish to maneuvre my chariot around it and it's just disgusting! If I knew where the dirty so and so lived, they'd get it sent back to them.

P "responsible dog owner, me!" T

Originally posted by Aaarrrggghhh
To you? Or people that want to sit on the grass in parks everywhere risking toxacara etc? And you'll look so pathetic with a mutt on a lead in one hand and a plastic bag in the other...

You just can't do right for doing wrong can you?? So what would you prefer? That I didn't clear it up? or perhaps nobody own a dog? Then they could all run wild and poop everywhere and it would be nobody's responsibility to clear it up!


Look out - skull vs. pink hippo thing !!

That's George!!!!!! And the skull is sooooo outdated...

And everyone's responsibility to shoot them on sight!

I take it you're not much of a dog lover? :hihi:

Originally posted by Lotti
That's George!!!!!! And the skull is sooooo outdated...

Don't worry sweetie, I'm not scared of the big meanie.

I'm a dog lover and dogs give a lot of love back. It's nice to have love in your life;)

Too true Deavon!

I wish my parents would see it that way!
Sometimes, I want to go out but have no reason to, I don't want to go and talk to anyone, but I don't want to be alone. A dog would offer that company to take my mind off things but not so that I have to talk to anyone.

For goodness sake my best friend is a cat...

How completely sad is that?

After spending over £1,000.00 recently on our Boxer in vets bills the best bit of advice I can give you is make sure you get your dog insured!!! :thumbsup:

go for a retired greyhound (there's a shelter somewhere in sheff) they are loyal well behaved and spend most of the time asleep......(so my mate told me who's adopted one)....i can get you the address if you like or do a search on here..someone did a thread about adopting greyhounds a few months ago.

Somebody mention Greyhounds?? Being a Greyhound lover, I can't help but say more!

Greyhounds would be ideal as Kirky says they spend most of their time asleep (mine don't even get up till dinner!). I've got two and all they need is 2 x 20 minute walks a day.

I didn't do the thread about adopting one, but I know a few greyhound rescues (I volunteer for the one I adopted mine from) and could put you in touch with one if you wish or you could chat to them about fostering for them. If you want more info on Greyhounds, PM me.

well, the trouble is, I'd have more chance going for a dalmatian as they're both big types of dog, greyhounds and dalmatians and I've wanted a dalmatian since forever so if I was going to be allowed a big dog that takes up space, I'd have more chance with the ones I love more than anything!

They do sound ideal though with sleeping all day. I can't believe they only need 2 x 20 minute walks, they're like the exercising dog of all time! or at least I thought so!

thanks for the info though.

Lottie xx

Hi Lottie,
I am very excited for you - I also LOVE dogs and really want one of my own but me & my partner both work full time so I wouldn't want to leave them on their own all day.

I found this website really interesting for doggie related help and advice - http://www.dogpages.org.uk/forums/index.php?

I posted my own question a few months ago when I was trying to work out if we could manage getting a dog of our own, and got LOADS of advice: http://www.dogpages.org.uk/forums/index.php?showtopic=64907&hl=

Basically i decided that it wouldn't be a good idea for us, but I am still really missing having a dog around so have been looking into volunteer work and fostering etc. I haven't been contacted for anything yet (probably cos I'm unsuitable being out at work all day) so if you need a hand with your dog then just let me know!

Katie

Thanks Katie!

I had a look, just look at this (http://epupz.co.uk/clas/viewdetails.asp?view=7363) scroll down to the pic, how can you say no to that?????

the trouble is we don't have £500 to just go out and spend on a dog. I don't need a show dog, I would prefer a pure breed but it doesn't have to be a show dog, it can be one that's rejected from shows (they are rejected on the basis their spots are too big sometimes!)
But all I can find are show dogs and they're so expensive!

Lottie

Can anyone help me with something else? How much does it tend to cost? for monthly supplies for a large dog like a dally and also how much it is for the monthly innoculations. My friend was telling me it's about £20 a month for her mini pinscher and £20 for innoculations but she lives it Sweden! So I could do with an idea of the cost so that I know I'll be able to cover it myself to put a better argument forward with my parents!

Thanks,
Lottie

Does anybody know why bitches are more expensive than dogs?

I've been looking through and dalmatian dogs are about £450 or £400 whilst dalmatian bitches are at least £500!

For any of you that knew I was looking for a dog, I've found her! She's an absolutely beautiful liver spotted bitch and what's more she's only £250 so my parents can't say 'we can't afford a dalmatian puppy' because I can buy her!!!!

I bet they knock me back, I found her by mistake but something just clicked as soon as I saw her, have you ever fallen in love at first sight, this is it! She's beautiful and I wish she could be mine! I've just got to try and get my parents to agree.

How much are injections for puppies? Does anybody know?

I'd be very grateful if you could tell me.

Lottie x

oh, also, can anybody recommend training classes in Sheffield? No rush, it may be another 4 years before I can get a dog, but I'm hoping it won't be!

They cost about £45 for the first two which are both in the first 15 weeks ish. Not sure if that is all they need though.

Thanks March,

I don't suppose you know roughly how much pet insurance /spaying/ microchipping is do you? There's much more that I need to think about paying up for!

Hi Lotti

I phoned the vets just yesterday about neutering my dog - £102.50.

Insurance wise it's probably best to shop around - ours is about £14 a month - think it depends on breed etc. Try searching on the internet - Tesco's is usually quite good.

Not sure about microchipping - my dog was tattooed when we got him - phone the vets to find out.

You are going about this very sensibly! Our dog costs a fortune so beware!

Thanks Cake,

I really really want her! I just feel like she's perfect for me. That is a LOT of money for spaying, perhaps it would be easier to make a profit on any babies that turn up by mistake? lol

I've heard you can get an animal microchipped pretty cheap, so I'm not too worried about that, just the whole insurance thing, I could tell my parents I'd pay for the upkeep, all the little essentials, but I have a feeling insurance for a dally bitch will be expensive. And I don't think I'd be able to pay it each month, without going out to get a job, and that would leave me less time for the dog. I'm hoping to have it out with them soon....

I need to check the health etc on this dog as she seems very cheap for a dally. I do love her to bits already though!

Thanks for the info.

Lottie x

If you go to one of the pet charities, think RSPCA do it, you can get them chipped for about £10 to cover the cost of the chip and a bit of a donation.

Please don't buy a dog from a breeder, there are so many unwanted dogs out there already needing a home in rescues. Dogpages.co.uk has a few forums for dogs wanting homes, a rescue generally asks for around £100 and are usually microchipped, neutered, front-lined (flea treatment), wormed and had their vacinations.

Some people believe that rescues must be vicious because they are in rescue, but its not true. Some are in rescue because their owner may have died, become unwell enough to care for them, divorced or moved abroad. Both mine are rescues.

Here is some dalmations that need a home: http://www.noedc.org/Welfare/Adoption_/adoption_.html


The cost of food and vacs can vary depending on what you feed and the vets you use.

My dogs food is £9.99 for a 15kg of dry complete which lasts around 1 month, then I add things such as sardines, tuna, tinned dog food or chicken to the meal as well.

Annual boosters are around £30, kennel cough is not included and is extra (I think) its around £15 and usually required every 6 months.

Flea treatment - I use Frontline from the vets and it costs for a 25kg dog (greyhound) around £50 for a years supply. Worming costs around £4 each treatment and should be done every 3 months - again I get this from the vets.


Hope this helps.

Thanks Thomsongirl.

I feel so guilty but as yet, I have not found a dally from a rescue that would be happy living with cats. I am looking for a bitch too (I know this may sound odd, but in the past, bitches have taken to me better).

I have looked before for dallies from rescue centres and I know it's not their own fault, but I couldn't find many anyway (with them being so expensive) and they said they couldn't be with cats, which is why I chose to go to a breeder, however, even though I love my new found liver spotted bitch, I will keep looking before I make a decision, I assure you, also, I'm still considering the foster option.

Edit: Also, what is kennel cough? Edit: it's ok, have looked it up!

Lottie

So have I added that up right to £250 a year (more or less)

I could afford that if I saved it throughout the year, I thought it sounded a lot at first but I'm sure I could.

frustration sets in...

Thomsongirl, just to let you know, I've found another liver spotted bitch who is spayed and good with cats.

She sounds lovely, there's no picture but they have stated that she won't be rehomed until they can find out why she's so thin.

If she is healthy and I'll be able to look after her, I would definitely go for her if my parents allow me to go for anybody.

Thankyou, I got very excited when I saw the other dally, but I would prefer to go for a rescue dog.

Lottie

Originally posted by Lotti
Thomsongirl, just to let you know, I've found another liver spotted bitch who is spayed and good with cats.

She sounds lovely, there's no picture but they have stated that she won't be rehomed until they can find out why she's so thin.

If she is healthy and I'll be able to look after her, I would definitely go for her if my parents allow me to go for anybody.

Thankyou, I got very excited when I saw the other dally, but I would prefer to go for a rescue dog.

Lottie

I'm so glad you're going for a rescue dog!
Personally I would NEVER buy a dog from a breeder - when I think of the thousands of dogs cooped up in kennels with no family to love them it breaks my heart :cry:
If I could rescue them ALL I would!

Good luck with your parents! xx

Before you get a dog Lotti, why don't you contact the Sheffield Branch of guide dogs for the blind?

They are always in desperate need of volunteers to offer their trainee guide dogs bed and board.

Basically, guide dogs aged 12-18 months are trained by experts during the day Monday-Friday, but need a caring home to stay evenings, over-night and weekends. The charity doesn't like putting any of its dogs into kennels. The dog doesn't need much exercise as its been training all day, just a kind home. It's almost like dogs B&B, and best of all they pay your expenses for food and stuff.

And your helping a really good cause.

Thanks for the thought JBee, and it sounds great, but i really do want one of my own, that I am responsible for.

I've contacted the kennels about Zonca, my doggy! I'm hoping that she's still there and that she's not seriously ill, I'd love to give an ill dog that love but I just don't have the time or the money for looking after a very ill dog.

and Katie thanks for the good luck, I'll need it! I'm hoping I'll win them round with all my research :wink:

I'm really pleased you may be getting a rescue dog. There are so many dogs needing a home and somebody to love them.

Here's some questions to about the rescue to think about.
Do you know anything about the rescue?
Will they be home checking you once they have discovered if she is healthy? (reputable rescues will always do a home check to ensure that you are the right home for the dog before homing and also perform a follow up visit to check how things are going).
Do you know what support you will get from should things not work out? (Reputable rescues will always provide advice and support during your ownership and will have the dog returned to them should there be any problems).

About the costings, vet fees haven't been mentioned at all. Vets charge around £20 consultation fee - that's before you pay for any treatment they receive. A good thing to think about is pet insurance to cover them - mine costs £10.60 a month for a 4 year old Greyhound and I have no excess to pay when I claim. Take a look at Marks and Spencers and Pet Plan (both recommended) - both do life long insurance, meaning should your dog need ongoing treatment for a long term illness, they will pay out for the treatment each year (so long as you pay your subs each year). Other pet insurance is with Tesco, Argos and a few others.

Thanks Thomsongirl.

The rescue is the dalmatian welfare rescue that covers more or less everywhere in Britain so I'm not too worried. I don't know a lot yet, but so far they've been helpful and have said that I can foster and see how it goes. That way I'm not jumping feetfirst into a lifelong commitment.

I'm just trying to find accomodation in Leeds that will let me have a dog, otherwise, that's the biggest reason I shouldn't have one, I'd be there for 4 years, and she'd be left with my parents for those 4 years, whilst if I went somewhere I could have a dog, it would be one year whilst I was in France that I'd need help (I don't think it's fair to put a dog through quarantine for 6 months when you're only there a year!

Does anybody know if there is a leedsforum? I could do with one!

Thanks,
Lottie x

I hope you can get the dog and that you get a lot of happiness and enjoyment out of her.:clap: :clap: :clap:

Awww, how cute. I am the proud owner of a liver & white spot dalmation too!

Cath I've just come across a training guide for dalmatians, what was it like training yours?

I'm soooo jealous! I love them and I've wanted one for at least 11 years now!

I read they need 1-2 hours a day of exercise, is that all? I thought it'd be more, if that's all, I can't see what all the fuss is about!

Let me know everything I need to think about and do you have pet insurance? If so how much is it for a dally?

And so do I slimsid, so do I.

Thanks.
Lottie

My dalmation Oscar is very old now, he's nearly 13!

From the moment he came home he was brilliant! He never once did any mess in the house. We never sent him to dog training as he really didn't need it, his temperament is superb. He is a very loving and sociable dog.

The only thing you need to look out for with Dalmations is to make sure you give them a low protein diet. They have a tendency to get bladder stones which we found out early on to the tune of about £1000 in vets bills. Oscar has to have tablets daily now and he has a Lamb & Rice Kibble dry food.

Good luck with your new addition, they are fabulous dogs!

I can't have Zonca from the dalmatian welfare, I was looking at the wrong area of England and they won't let her travel so far to get to Sheffield. None of the ones in the North of England welfare will suit the lifestyle we have, they are either, not good with other dogs (I would be leaving them with someone with dogs should I need to be away for a whole day) or cats (we have two)

So, I'm back to square one :(

Aw, I bet you get so much out of having Oscar, I really wish I had that! I have Smudge my cat, and although she's loyal for a cat, she's still a cat and they are naturally flippant!

Well it came to the perfect opportunity today when I seemed preoccupied and my mum asked what was up. All I was thinking was 'should I ask her or not' and had the whole dog thing on my mind again but when she asked, I couldn't tell her. I felt bad, and I didn't want to keep nagging her. I couldn't turn round and tell her what was wrong and why I was so preoccupied. That's never gonna get me anywhere is it??

How do I approach this?

If or when you get a dog, buy a cheap video think you can get it for £1.99 called "Training Dogs" presented by John Fisher its useless for training dogs but its great for keeping your dog amused for hours watching it.

Originally posted by Lotti
Thanks March,

I don't suppose you know roughly how much pet insurance /spaying/ microchipping is do you? There's much more that I need to think about paying up for!

I started a thread looking for pet insurance. There's lots of answers on there.

The RSPCA recently did microchipping at a really cheap price - that has it's own thread too. Brude's cost £10 at the vets.

Dunno about spaying. Our vet has stopped nagging me about it. It would be criminal to mutilate such a good example of his breed. We would like to have one of his pups eventually.

Originally posted by Lotti
I really really want her! I just feel like she's perfect for me. That is a LOT of money for spaying, perhaps it would be easier to make a profit on any babies that turn up by mistake? lol
With vets fees and food and the time it takes to rear pups to 10 weeks - it's virtually impossible to make a profit at dog breeding :mad:

Originally posted by thomsongirl
Please don't buy a dog from a breeder, there are so many unwanted dogs out there already needing a home in rescues.
:rolleyes: Reponsible breeders take their own dogs back from homes that can no longer look after them, and rehome them too. These dogs are often the 'victims' of divorce or illness, rather than unsuitable pets.

Originally posted by KATIEB_23
I'm so glad you're going for a rescue dog!
Personally I would NEVER buy a dog from a breeder - when I think of the thousands of dogs cooped up in kennels with no family to love them it breaks my heart :cry:
If I could rescue them ALL I would!
Most breeders only have one or two litters a year, and the pups are mostly home reared. Very few breeders actuallly have kennels. Most pups have owners waiting for them even before they are conceived.

Brude came from a kennels where 6-10 dogs shared a pen, and as beagles are pack dogs are were all very happy. His breeder also has 'house dogs' - mainly rescued ones. She also has a paddock for excercising them all safely - without the risk of them running off or being attacked by other dogs.

In my opinion, Brude's breeder looks after her dogs far better than most pet owners.

Originally posted by Lotti
it would be one year whilst I was in France that I'd need help (I don't think it's fair to put a dog through quarantine for 6 months when you're only there a year!
With the new pets passport, you wouldn't need to quarrantine him/her.

:o Pets passport? No quarantine? Really?????
FANTASTIC! They can't argue! How much is the pets passport and wouldn't she need to be quarantined coming back anyway in case she caught anything there? (apparently France is terrible for rabid dogs!)

When Thomsongirl said about not liking to see the dogs cooped up in kennels, she didn't mean the breeders dogs, she meant the rescue dogs! She didn't mean that the breeders put them in kennels just that she wishes she could rescue all the rescue dogs that have to be cooped up in kennels.

Thanks sooo much Strix, you do realise, you may have just won the argument for me! They didn't like the idea of me going away and leaving her, all I need now is somewhere in Leeds that would take me with a dog....

There's a special dalmatian training package online, but I don't know how much it is, it may be a con, but apparently dalmatians learn another way, the punishment for bad behaviour doesn't work, apparently they're actually programmed to please the owner, they're also one of the best breeds you can have if you have cats.

Cath, how often do you take Oscar for walks and how long? I was told it was 1-2 hours a day, but then someone said 2-3 walks a day, I know they're a brilliant breed for playing fetch etc. so I wouldn't have to walk the full time, I could let her play off the leash in the park whilst I sat down and then carry on walking again...

I have really thought this through, I'm going to write down all the fors and againsts and present them to my parents...

Lottie

Lotti, the best people to speak to are people who breed them. Nobody has more experience in living with this sensitive breed. Nobody has more experience of their health problems.

I know 2 breeders I can put you in touch with locally. They are both very loving breeders, at least one of which I think has something to do with dally rescue.

Are you going to Leeds to study?

Edit: no - no quarantine coming home with a pet passport. Use google to find the govt info on it.

Thanks Strix, if you could let me know, I'm a little afraid of talking to people in case they tell me I'd be a bad owner, I'm quite scared of people!

Do they have email addresses? I'd rather contact them via email! If you could pm me with their details that'd be great thankyou.

Yes I would like to go to Leeds to study.

Lottie

I won't see them 'til monday, so I'll let you know.
Oh, just thought - I'll try texting :thumbsup:

I can see from your posts you have clearly thought about getting a dog and the financial commitments and time. My only concern for you is that you are clearly quite young and by the sounds of your posts off to universtity shortly.

Now I have two dogs and I love them to bits but the commitment is not just financial. My life day to day revolves around them. I can't go for a day out without considering them and may not be able to go because they would be alone too long. If I want to go away for the weekend I have to put them in kennels £11 a day, which quickly adds to the cost of any holiday. I have to come home early from nights out.

Now I expect at the moment you might be thinking non of this will be a problem for you. You will probably think well I will love my dog so much it will be worth it. But if you're spending a year in France won't you want to see the sights and travel a bit. Finding accomodation which accept pets is hard and you may find that you have to live in an area away from friends because that's they only place you can get.

It seems a shame to miss out on other opportunites for a dog when you could still have a dog in 4 years time after finishing university. You may even say now you don't go out much, but university is different there is so much to do and so much going on you will find things to do every night. I think it's a time of freedom from responsibility.

Floyd thankyou for your post, I appreciate the points you have given me.

I am going to speak to my parents about it, I've already thought about not being able to go out, I do have friends who are willing to take care of a dog and Leeds is not far at all from me.

I know that not having had a dog before, I can't properly assess all these things, and the thoughts of it stopping me doing things have crossed my mind. However, I can't drink because of health problems, I don't go out much and to be honest, I'm not good in large social gatherings I prefer to be alone or with one or two friends maximum.

University may be a time when you let go of responsibility but if you knew me, you'd know I couldn't do that. I grew up far too fast because of health problems.

I would not like the idea of putting my dog in kennels unless I really couldn't avoid it, I'd try and get it to stay with a friend etc.

Thankyou for bringing these things to my attention. There are times I think, 'would I cope' however, I can't imagine anyone would think that they'd be a brill dog owner 100% of the time.
my parents have already said about the not being able to go out thing and it does concern me sometimes. I know it would add to the stress of going away, but I can't just up and leave spontaneously anyway as I need to make sure I have medical supplies so it wouldn't stop me being spontaneous!

I will think about what you have said again and consider it a lot. However, I really do think that I would get so much out of having a dog, I have no companionship right now, nor do I have a reason to go out so I'm stuck in the house most of the time if I'm not at college.
I also think, a dog would get a lot out of what I could give it, albeit sometimes having to stay alone for a while.

Thankyou again, I will deeply consider it.

Lottie xx

Good luck with speaking to your parents.

You seem to have given the matter a lot of consideration which is good. A lot of dogs are abandoned because people rush into getting one without thinking it through. I get the impression that you would be a very responsible dog owner.

All the best.:clap: :clap: :clap:

Aw thankyou :clap:

You don't know how much that means for me to hear that! I am very concerned that I wouldn't make a good owner as I'm always concerned I'm doing things wrong! But it's great to have somewhere like this to come to when I need help!

Originally posted by Lotti
I don't go out much and to be honest, I'm not good in large social gatherings I prefer to be alone or with one or two friends maximum.

The thing is before I went to university I would have said exactly what you have written. At university going out isn't just about drinking. You can go out to theatres, cinema to see bands etc. Loads of stuff. I am just wondering that combined with your medical problems a dog will restrict you even further. I have no doubt you will be a great dog owner and will put the dog's needs first. Just seems that you will end up missing out on things because you have to do that.

Originally posted by floyd77
The thing is before I went to university I would have said exactly what you have written. At university going out isn't just about drinking. You can go out to theatres, cinema to see bands etc. Loads of stuff. I am just wondering that combined with your medical problems a dog will restrict you even further. I have no doubt you will be a great dog owner and will put the dog's needs first. Just seems that you will end up missing out on things because you have to do that.

Hey Lotti,

Not trying to p*** on your bonfire but Floyd77 does have a point. University years are the best years of your life, even if you decide you wanna go and join the flippin' tiddlywinks club, don't waste them by committing yourself to a dog.

All good things come to those who wait, and you've got plenty of time in your life to become a dog owner.

Why don't go go for a pet that's a bit lower maintance? When I was at uni I kept a pet rat and she was lovely. I know a lot of people shudder at the thought of rats, but they're actually very intelligent - in fact I always described her as I small dog (and I've grown up with dogs so I know what I'm talking about) She came when I called her, sat on my knee, played games, and was very clean.

At the moment I'm living in a city centre flat with no room for a dog, so I've just bought a houserabbit (you probably already know this from my other posts) and that's working out very well too.

There are loads of animally options that might just fit into your student lifestyle a bit better.

Good luck, and if you need any adice on any kind of animal PM me, I've kept everything from fishes to horses! x

Thanks but that doesn't make much difference right now, maybe it will some time soon. But I've got dog on the brain, and another animal will just be a compromise to a dog.

I've tried having smaller animals in the past, but in reality I don't want them, they're just compensating for not having a dog!

We'll see how things turn out. right now it doesn't look much like I'll be allowed anyway but we'll see.

I really wish I could not want one, but I can't get it out of my head, and it's very unhealthy.

Originally posted by Lotti
I really wish I could not want one, but I can't get it out of my head, and it's very unhealthy.

Perhaps you've built this up too much? Dogs are wonderful but they won't solve all life's problems.

Don't upset yourself over it, even if you're not allowed one now there will come a time when you can have one. And in the meantime you're being very sensible by doing lots of research, so you'll be fully prepared for that rowdy puppy who knaws the skirting boards and piddles all over you best carpet!

Do you mind me asking what your disability is Lotti? You can PM me if you prefer... Or just tell me to sod off for being too noisy. I won't take offense!

Of course I don't mind.

I have mobility problems. The actual disability is called Klippel Trenaunay Syndrome. My website (http://the-lottie-story.mysite.wanadoo-members.co.uk) details it when it got bad, but I'm getting better now and need to get out more. I have a car now so don't walk much but would go out for those walks and that would keep me walking.

Lottie xx

Lotti,
Are you aware thet there is currently a dalmation at the Sheffield branch of the RSPCA looking for a new home?
Check out their website you can see a picture of her there.

Originally posted by Lotti
Of course I don't mind.

I have mobility problems. The actual disability is called Klippel Trenaunay Syndrome. My website (http://the-lottie-story.mysite.wanadoo-members.co.uk) details it when it got bad, but I'm getting better now and need to get out more. I have a car now so don't walk much but would go out for those walks and that would keep me walking.

Lottie xx

If you do get a dog you should consider a greyhound. They're acutally massive couch potatoes and only need a short burst of exercise every day. And they make very devoted and loving pets.

There are loads of ex-racers in desperate need of a loving home too. Check-out the Sheffield branch of the Retired Greyhounds Assiciation. They're always looking for caring homes for unwanted greyhounds, and have an office up at Owlerton racecourse.

And they look a little like Dalmations. If you take away the spots. Have a few glasses of wine. And then squint!

Hey thanks, I might consider it, it's just I've not got much chance of getting one as my parents know I love dalmatians so much, if I go switching around they'll think I'm flippant, I do want a dog I can take out a lot, would they still go out if they didn't need it?

Thanks again,

Lottie

My greyhounds can cope with either 2 small walks on a lead a day or a 2 hour trek and small evening walk. They can take as little or a much as you can give them basically. Mine are always walked on a lead (one has a high prey drive and neither have any recall) and sometimes when I find an enclosed field with no one around they get a run off lead.

Some Greyhounds can live with cats, but you need to find a cat friendly greyhound that has been assessed as being so (these have usually been in a foster home with cats). I have links with greyhound rescues, so if you are interested I can put you in touch with a few.

Regarding Breeders, I don't believe in breeding dogs for money. There are too many back yard breeders who do not look after the dogs and have no regard for the dogs. They don't know the risks associated with it and don't care if the puppies have medical conditions. A lot of back yard breeders do not care once the dog is out of their hands. Personally, I believe in giving a rescue dog a home as there are far too many unwanted dogs out there already.

I've actually thought about it again, and I think I would probably meet more people with the same interests as me, walking a dog/taking it to obedience classes.
Plus, there are beaches that allow dogs, car boot sales/markets allow dogs, beer gardens, etc. etc. I know there are still many things you can't do with dogs, but it'd also be my help as I'm disabled if I could I'd train it to help me out so could probably get it into more places that way.

I've been talking to other dog owners who have said, they haven't had to sacrifice all that much for dogs.

I'll see...

Wish me luck people! I'm going to talk to my mum the next time I see her.

I've written everything down the 'fors' the 'againsts' and the 'costs'.

And i've just realised that the reason she's still not agreeing is because although I've thought of everything, I've not been able to tell her, so she doesn't realise quite how much thought I've put into it!

Lottie