I have that old song “Come on Baby Rescue Me” playing through my mind right now. Seeing the dogs in need of homes, the abandoned, the betrayed, (and the list goes on,) I wish to address this need again and warn those who have been given this gift of stewardship. Wisdom has cried her voice in the wilderness of our lives, but how many of us paid attention? As much mercy as we show dogs or the like, that much mercy will be shown unto us. Heavenly Father watches everything we do, the good and the bad.
Now, here is an exercise I want everyone to try. Those of us who have no dog in our lives are missing out. Take a sheet of paper and pen. Sit down at a table and relax because we are about to brainstorm together. At the header of the paper write “pros” and “cons” for getting a dog. Here are my Pro’s and Con’s:
(Note to children: Want a dog? Do this and brainstorm really well to convince Dad and Mom.)
Pros
- Companionship
- Security
- Loyalty
- Unconditional Love
- Laughter
- Calming
- Can Work and meet the needs of the disabled
- Keeps Life Interesting
- House Breaking (if not)
- Feeding
- Poo in the yard
- Vet Bills
- Fleas (just their way to share their love)
- Chewing up things (just love chewing)
- Odor
- We out-live them
So, what is the excuse? It could be worse. I have thirteen Great Danes, one Beagle, and one Chihuahua. Did they ask to be born into their predicament? No, and if anyone can help them then I suggest they take a ride to the pound and open their doors to a dog in need. Those of us who do this are in for a surprise because most rescues know what has been done for them and they show their appreciation unless they have a short in their brain. Remember, it takes two weeks for the new addition of the family to completely adjust. So, be patient. There may be an accident or two. The dog may even be traumatized from their last home, so watch that temper.
Lastly, I leave everyone with a parting tidbit of advice. Should your new dog come to your home and there are other dogs, let them meet one at a time in your front yard or some other neutral ground. Remember, one at a time and have a water hose ready to spray them if they start to disagree. If they should lock up take a broom handle and place it in one of their mouths, pushing in just enough to get a gag reflex causing the aggressor to let go. Be careful, because damage can be done if the handle is pushed too hard.
Remember to love your dogs because they love you. Maybe not the way you want them to, like chewing up your favorite shoes or what not, but that is just love chewing. Be thankful for the time you have with them always.
By: Joel Allen
