My pets (both large and small) have taught me compassion, creativity, responsibility, and so much more. Without the pets of my childhood and adolescence, who knows where I would be today? Would I have ever become a Veterinary Assistant? I believe I have them to thank for that.
I have enjoyed having a variety of pets in my life. Dogs, cats, fish, birds, a hedgehog, a rabbit and even a couple of rats. I am still learning some of the same valuable lessons that I did during my childhood and my husband is learning that even more. Having grown up with just turtles, he had no idea about the responsibility of owning a dog. I can tell you this, he is in love with our dog like no man I have ever seen before and it warms me to the very tips of my toes!
To each of us, our dogs are perfect in their own special ways. I know my dog isn’t perfect and she has her flaws, but I still love her all the same. Kacey probably won’t be winning any dog shows anytime soon. I’m sure the same can be said by many of us.
What is an advantage to adopting small dogs? It certainly is less expensive!
When considering a new addition to the family, there can be many advantages to adopting small dog breeds. Many things are less expensive and it may be easier to have a smaller dog around the home.
Some of the advantages are quite different when comparing to larger dog breeds. There’s no doubt about it, owning a small dog has a lot of advantages. It’s always important to consider what your needs are when choosing any small dog breed.
Advantages:
- Less chance of joint problems
- They eat less than larger dogs
- Many require less exercise (and can get it smaller areas)
- Boarding facilities may be less expensive due to smaller space required and relatives may be more likely to say yes to a sleepover (at least in my experience as I have enjoyed both large and small breeds)
- Easier to carry or transport via dog carriers
- May be easier to travel with
- Easier to bathe
- Less yard elimination cleanup (a huge bonus for me since I have owned both large and small breed)
- Less living condition space needed
As a result of these advantages, these little dog breeds are becoming more and more popular as companion dogs. Since their small size does not warrant for much space, these little dogs have become appealing to those living in the city, apartments, and condos. Content with sitting on your lap these small breeds do keep great company and need less exercise than larger dog breeds.
I also have to mention a special dog in my life that has crossed over the rainbow bridge. He lived to be almost 12 years old. I know some of you had the privilege of meeting King, he was our very first family dog and we didn’t expect him to get quite so big! I wouldn’t have traded him for all the gold in the world and he still holds a special place in my heart! What a gem he was! That goofy smile (missing two K9 teeth) and that big head that he eventually grew into. He had a TPLO surgery (cruciate ligament repair) on both hind legs before the age of 8 and near the end had a rough time getting around and we just wanted to make the end as nice as possible for him. Dr. Farrow and Dr. MacKay made his journey as smooth as possible. Thank you to our amazing Veterinarians for making our decision less difficult.
Large or small, we love them all!
Life is short, hug your pet!
By: Hollie Chow
