Is It Feasible to Get a Dog for a 13-Year-Old with a Busy Schedule?

Parents often wonder if it's realistic to get a dog for their child, especially when they have a busy schedule. In this article, we explore the practicalities of dog ownership for 13-year-olds, drawing on personal experiences and expert insights.

Personal Experience: My Childhood Dog

When I was around that age, I had a dog myself. I walked and fed her while my mother took care of any veterinary concerns that arose. Everything worked perfectly, but there was one major drawback - I had to go to school, and my mother worked during the day. My former dog had severe separation anxiety. She would bark for hours if we crated her, and we couldn’t let her have free range of the house when we were alone as she would become destructive. My mother didn’t like the idea of doggy daycare for financial reasons. Eventually, we rehomed the dog to someone who had another dog and a roommate, ensuring she was never left alone.

Considering Dog Ownership Wisely

Before making a decision, it's crucial to consider the responsibilities of owning a dog, especially for an adolescent. There are several things to think about:

Finding a Local Foster-Based Rescue

One practical option is to foster a dog from a local rescue. This allows you to determine if dog ownership is right for your family without making a long-term commitment. Fostering is an excellent way to give a dog some companionship while they wait for their forever home. Perhaps your daughter will 'foster fail' and want to adopt the dog. Even if she doesn’t, she might fall in love with the idea of helping dogs find their forever homes.

Future Planning for College

Another consideration is your daughter's future. What will happen when she goes to college? Ensure she has a plan for dog care during that transition. Discuss the possibility of placing the dog with a friend or family member who can continue to take care of it during college breaks or vacations.

My Perspective as a 14-Year-Old with a Dog

As a 14-year-old with a dog, I can offer some insight. I believe that dogs are great, especially for kids and teens. Many people get too worked up about the difficulties of owning a dog, which can be manageable with the right approach.

Basic Responsibilities of Dog Ownership

The three main things required for dog ownership are feeding, walking, and giving attention. Feeding a dog twice a day should take no more than 5 minutes of your day. My suggestion is to help her set alarms on her phone for feeding time.

Providing attention is where the 'great for kids' aspect comes in. If your daughter is passionate about getting a dog, it shows she has a deep love for animals. It will also be easier for you and your wife to find time to play with the dog because they are irresistible. Of course, there are negatives to consider, such as cleaning up dog waste, which many teenage girls might not be enthusiastic about.

Trial Run Before Adoptions

Before committing to adoption, it's essential to have a trial run. Check with friends or family members who might need a dog sitter. If everything goes smoothly, start looking into adopting a pet.

Choosing the Right Breed

It's also important to choose the right breed. Dogs that are too small or too big might not be suitable for a 13-year-old's lifestyle. If possible, consult with local shelters and consider dogs that are not yet puppies, as they are often more adaptable.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while there are challenges to considering a dog for your 13-year-old daughter, with careful planning and commitment, it can be a rewarding and joyful experience. Whether through fostering or adoption, taking on the responsibility of caring for a dog can bring immense satisfaction and emotional support to your growing family.