Ask Dr. Fling

Q: I'm planning to get my first dog now that I'm moving out of the house and going to college. I'd like a pure-bred, but I want a dog with a laid back personality. What do you recommend?

A: Before you adopt a dog, make sure you know what is involved! Having a pet, on average, involves a 15 year commitment. Your new dog will need plenty of attention, and frequent opportunity to exercise and go outside. You need to make sure you have adequate money budgeted for veterinary care, food, and obedience training. In addition, if you are renting at school, make sure your landlord approves of pets. If you are sure you are ready for the responsibility that comes with having a dog, consider visiting your local animal shelter. Besides wonderful mixed breed dogs that desperately need homes, there are a wide variety of "pure-breds" to choose from too. It is likely that you will find just the right personality to match yours there.