I know the cons. We have a dog (my son's in reality)

But it would take me out of myself....It would force responsibility and I would smile...

Any thoughts?

Might just be because I really want a puppy right now...but sounds like a perfect idea to me

I say if you feel up to looking after it and can handle the responsibilities then go for it.

[Artchic528]

As cute as puppies are, I prefer adult dogs over them. Adult dogs usually have some training, are housebroken, and you know exactly how big they are so there are no surprises down the road. Besides, I tend to go for the dogs (or cats) who are usually overlooked, not as desirable to the public or are, no pun intended, underdogs. Maybe these special kinds of dogs are grateful to be given a chance, or maybe they are just that special, but they make the best dogs in my experience.

I know you're not myself, so your preferences in dogs are somewhat different, but I would strongly suggest adopting one from a shelter or rescue organization, rather than buying one. I also strongly suggest looking at different types of breeds and whatnot so you can get a semblance of what you like in a dog, and which breeds are a good match to you and your lifestyle. For example, if you are the kind of person who likes to spend her time at home, curled up on the couch with a good book, tv show or movie, obviously get a breed that is more inclined to be a couch potato rather than one who is high energy. Or if the opposite is true, and you like to spend your time outdoors, doing a lot of hiking and adventuring, get a dog who has the energy to match.

I would also discuss bringing another dog into your home with whomever you share your home with, so that you are all on the same page and no one is taken by surprise. Especially talk with the spouse, as the adoption should involve both of you, and make it all the more special and you can both determine together beforehand if you have the ability (financially and time-wise) to add another dog to the family.

Thank artchic!

This was more about the psychological aspect of it though....hence it not being posted in the Social area...

[passionfruit3]

You might consider a mix breed they have less health problems and doing research on dogs this coming out of yourself is a result of your disorder i assume well it doesn't seem bad if you smile at the dog after so whats your biggest fear

[Skeezyks]

Originally Posted by sophiesmom

This was more about the psychological aspect of it though....hence it not being posted in the Social area...

Well... from the Skeezyks' perspective... yes it might well take you out of yourself & force responsibility, as long as you're prepared to accept it. We have a dog. And we live in a townhome. Hence no private yard. So we have to take our dog out for multiple walks every day. Rain, snow, sun, wind, heat you name it. We're out there! Sometimes I'd rather barf than take the dog for one of his walks! But it has to be done. So it does keep me going... like it or not. Many years ago, my father used to say: "You're not required to like it. You're just required to do it." I take this as my motto. By the way, our pooch certainly does make us smile...

[Travelinglady]

Dogs are certainly recommended for social support by therapists. My son got one for that reason. Just make sure you seek one that won't make you nervous or cause too many problems. You can search "emotional support" dogs, if you want...

Do you have days where you can't function properly, immobile, or becoming impatient? Then that will effect the puppy's life too.

[ElliePons]

I don't know about puppies (hope you don't mind me butting in) but I got myself a cat and it always cheers me up, plus the few responsibilities (there's not as many as there are with dogs) force me to do stuff for her and when i was in the hospital, i always wanted to go home asap and that helped me to get better sooner.

[Sula B]

Hey sophiesmom, I have never once said no to a puppy or an adult dog that needed a home but then for a long time I lived on a farm with plenty of running around room. I think you have to be realistic - if it can help you to put your own needs last - it can be a great therapy - the joy I get from my spectacularly individual and demanding dogs really puts my own needs into perspective - whether its their needs for food and water or their demand that I put my own emotions and issues last and play or laugh. They really are wonderful. However, their need are the main issue, If you have days where you just can't - where getting out of bed is not something you can face, don't have a dog, puppy or adult. It is not their fault how you feel and they should not suffer because of it. If you are in control enough that you know that you WILL respond to their needs then go for it. What I will say however is that there are so many lovely dogs waiting to be adopted and an adult, house trained dog may be just the ticket especially and older dog who may not be so demanding of your time and require so much exercise. Basically all I want to say is please weigh up what they can bring to you as opposed to what you MUST bring to them regardless.

Do they have this in the States?
https://www.borrowmydoggy.com
That's what I do in the UK. I have a cat but sometimes it's nice to walk or play with a dog but without too much responsibility. It really helps the owners out too. There's another thing called the Cinnamon Trust where you foster or help look after people's dogs when the owner is in hospital or too sick to take them for a walk. Might be good to look at different ways of having the fun of a dog when you want to, but without the stress of ownership.