Hey everyone, it’s Cooper again! Did you know today, March 23, is one of my favorite holidays? It’s National Puppy Day!
I was a puppy once, so I know all about ’em. The stinky breath, the slobber, the extended nap sessions … hey, what do you know? Some of those things are still true for us grown-up dogs!
But seriously now, puppies are pretty paw-some. Even so-called “cat people” can’t look at a puppy without saying “awwww.” (Go ahead, try it. I’ll wait.) Sadly, sometimes that cuteness can work against us. A new puppy is adorable and exciting, so it can be easy to overlook how much work she is. Potty training, leash training, obedience training ? those things can take a lot of time and energy. Of course, we’re worth it! But when a puppy grows into a bigger dog, she still needs plenty of love and attention, not to mention daily walks, room to run and play, proper diet and grooming, and regular vet visits. Sometimes people forget how big of a responsibility dogs are.
I’m not telling you all this so you can run to your friends and say, “Hey, [Clinic Dog Name] said not to get a dog—they’re too much work!” Don’t you remember me saying we are absolutely, 100 percent worth it? We are. I just want people to know what they’re getting into. Pets—of any kind!—are a commitment. Unfortunately, some people realize a dog is not a good fit for their family…after the fact. That’s one reason why dogs and other animals end up in shelters, waiting for a new fur-ever home.
So if you or a friend are interested in getting a puppy, please take some time to think about how your lifestyle can accommodate an energetic, drooling ball of fluff…who will grow into an even bigger, energetic, drooling ball of fluff. Of course, that puppy will probably be the best friend you’ve ever had, and even when her puppy days are over, she’ll still be adorable. I mean, just look at how cute I still am!
If you’re a puppy lover but aren’t ready for one in your home, there are still plenty of ways to get your doggy dose of cuteness! Visit a friend or relative for a play date with their pup (it’s like visiting someone else’s kids—the parents can handle the time-outs and diaper changes!). You can also volunteer to walk dogs at a shelter. And of course, there’s always puppy pictures! Display a daily or monthly calendar with adorable dog images, choose a cute canine desktop wallpaper, or create a Pinterest board that’s devoted to photographs of your furry friends.
Also, be sure to spread the word about National Puppy Day. Personally, I think puppies are worth celebrating every day—stinky breath and all!