A Doggie?

[brieyourbest]

Hey All!

I was just wondering if any of you all have a dog? I really want one but my parents want me to get better before I get one. Any advice?

 

[Grumbletum]

Hey Brie
Doggies are good What exactly are your parents' concerns? Is it that you might not be able to feed, walk the dog etc if you're feeling bad? We have a dog ( me and DS ) - a bouncy, mad but loveable Beagle. I used to walk him every day when DS is at school, but since flaring up in April this year, I haven't felt up to it. He's pretty good and obedient in the house, but when he gets outside he just wants to follow his ( pretty big ) nose and he is really strong and can just about pull me off my feet.
I think having a pet would be good for you, but if you do go for a dog, maybe a small quiet breed would be best.

Or a goldfish................................. ( only kidding)

 

[brieyourbest]

My parents are concerned because I am still in college, my mom doesn't like dogs and they think I can barely take care of myself. But I think that it will really help me. At least to get out of bed everyday to feed it. I was thinking of a yorkie, shih tzu or pomeranian... Something little. My only concern is if I have to go to the hospital...

 

[Cat-a-Tonic]

I have a few pets - a cat (obviously, ha ha), a hedgehog, a couple of gerbils, and yes, I have a dog. I've had my cat for about 8 years now and I am really more of a cat person than a dog person. I like that cats are so low maintenance, just give 'em food and clean their litter box, toss a little catnip and toys their way and they're fine. I had some concerns about getting a dog, like what if I get too sick to walk it or what if it needs more activity and attention than I can provide? But I found a dog in December that I couldn't say no to, a 2 year-old corgi who needed a new home as her former owners couldn't keep her any longer. And she's been great. My health has been improving although there are still some days when I'm feeling too exhausted to walk her, but she seems to understand. She's not a super high energy dog so that helps, and I'm glad I didn't get a puppy. A young adult dog like mine is pretty ideal - some energy, but not tons, and she will sleep all night and into the next day if I let her. She can entertain herself with bones or toys for hours but she'll also play with me if I'm feeling up to it.

If you're not sure if a dog is right for you, I suggest you consider other pets. My cat seems to know when I'm not feeling well and she will sit right near me, if not on me, and she'll even follow me into the bathroom. If you're dead set on getting a dog, do some research into various breeds to find one that sounds like a good fit for you. You could even foster a dog through your local animal shelter if you're not sure and want to take a dog for a test run before making up your mind. My parents are considering fostering a cat so I know it's an option, I think the Humane Society has foster programs and other shelters probably do too. Good luck with whatever you decide to do!

 

[lookame]

My fiance and I have a couple of pets. We started off with a couple of fish but I'm horrible with fish so they wound up *saddly* dieing. Then we got a bird. A loud bird. She's really funny though and really helped me during a time of extream uncertainty. I felt better when she was on my shoulder repeating phrases with me. She was a much needed distraction. Then a few months after getting our bird we inhereted a cat which my parents had but couldn;t take care of anymore. The cat has become my fiance's and is fairly simple to take care of.

Recently we adopted a little italian grayhound/chiuiauia mix.She's a nice breed, quiet and easy to take care of during the day and if she needs to go out for her nightly pee she'll go to one spot then run to the door no problem(a good thing when it comes to living in an apartment) I like her a lot, she keeps my son occupied and is a good addition to our family. For you a small easy to take care of quiet breed would probably be best.

 

[Terriernut]

You've got to get the RIGHT dog for you. A dog that isnt a pup for one thing. But I will say this, the right dog, can heal you inside and out. Their unconditional love, acceptance and listening skills can make you heal faster. For one thing, you wont just be thinking about yourself, you have someone more important than you to care about. And trust me, that can keep you alive. Course, it's not just dogs that are miracle workers. Cats can do the same thing!

Ive had dogs from Chihuahua size to Irish Wolfhounds. But my heart dog was an Irish Terrier named Chase. Born deaf, he was my reason for living in my darkest hours. That cold wet nose, and the cuddles, and the licking away of tears, cant be replaced by any humans I assure you! (RIP Chase)

I hope you have the honor of having a dog, or cat sometime in the near future!

 

[rygon]

My parents have a shitzu which requires 2x mile walks a day at least. Great fun to keep me company. I find dogs amazing companions, but they do take some looking after. They do need attention, if u r ill u really need someone who will look after it until u r better.

 

[RFarmer]

Dogs are sweet. But don't buy one if you're the kind of person who's going to have to leave it alone at home 8 hrs a day. That's totally cruel. A dog can't watch tv, facebook, or read like a person can, remember. If you work all day, it's going to go crazy.

 

[Lydia]

If you dont have much time for a dog, why not get a cat. They are cuddly, but independent too. They dont require nearly as much attention.

I like my dog. She forces me to go for walks even when I dont feel like it and I always feel better after.

 

[brieyourbest]

Thank you all for y'alls advice. I love the Crohn's Forum... You all keep me sane.

I have decided on getting a dog because I have honestly been through a lot these past two years and especially since being diagnosed with this lovely illness.

But also because I would love to love on a dog and it love me back. I think having to get up to take care of the dog would help me a lot.

Also, I am a college student so I won't have any 8 hour days and when I do get there in life, when I become a teacher, I plan on doing doggy day care.

Thanks everyone.

As soon as I find a reasonably priced toy dog then I will post pictures of me and my new bff!

 

[Lisa]

I would like to suggest going to a shelter and getting a dog from there vs. buying one from a pet shop or possibly even a breeder. Especially since shops and breeders usually sell young dogs - and as was mentioned already, it would be a good idea to get a mature one.

Also - you could consider fostering one from a shelter - this way, if you do get sick or something happens, it has a place to go back to - AND you may be helping to find homes for more critters.....just a thought.

 

[Jer's Girl]

I totally agree with getting a shelter or rescue pup. My two little rescue mutt butts are the light of my life. They have gotten me through some tough times with my Crohns.
I do work 8 hour days, but when I was training them I took some time off to be with them, and they have each other when I am at work now. I am a home body, so I am with them almost all the time when I am not working.

I hope you find a great little pal that is just right for you! It can help so much when times get rough and you are hurting. They love you so unconditionally!

 

[Terriernut]

I've always done rescue dogs as well! Or, I would check out the breed thoroughly and ring the breed club, and ask for an adult that needs a home, and for lots and lots of advice as well. They are generally brilliant at helping out.

I've only bought two dogs in my life...and they were for showing as I was very active in the Irish Wolfhound community, and training to be a judge at the time.

The dog that comes into your life will take over your life. Its only fair to you and the dog to make sure it's a good match. Most animals will open your heart so much, you will only want the very best for them. And doing the work in advance will make all the difference to you both. Buying puppies from puppy mills or pet stores is asking for trouble. Their health can be horrible! And the bills that you would incure will break your wallet, and worse, your heart!

I'm sure you will find the right dog, but please consider contacting the breed club for advice from a proper breeder, and not a puppy mill. (which SHOULD BE illegal!!!!!)

 

[lookame]

Agreed... the dog must match you because an unhappy dog leads to a destructive home. I also suggest a pound puppy(or actually a dog) they have so much more love to give and they bond so much closer with you since you "rescued them"

Also I've noticed that my bird and my dog(and of coarse my son) have really helped me through my disease Chloe is there by the bathroom door when I come out and she's wagging her tail and all excited that I made it out of the bathroom and Lexi (my bird) was there through it all...even kissed my face while I was crying and when I got back from the hospital she chirped once then flew right over to me...and ran the rest of the way to me.

 

[Crohnadian]

We have dogs and cats and I have had reptiles and birds. Unfortunately, although they are great therapy, they do require care as well. And repeat hospitalizations of mine have resulted in the realization that I can't have the pets that I want, really. I mean, I have a salamander, that my parents took care of while I was in the hospital, but aside from that it's not fair to leave the parents with the added responsibility of taking care of your pets when you're sick. Our IBD is unpredictable. Animals need care as much as we do. Sadly, my hospitalizations have resulted in all of my own pets (reptiles and birds) being re-homed, because I wasn't able to take care of them, or even get out of bed to feed them. I would advise against getting a pet while you're sick, just from my own experience with the issue. My cat was the best animal that ever happened to me, he was a miracle, stuck by me all the time while I was sick in my room, he definitely was therapy for me. But they do need care as well, don't forget that

 

[juicy24]

A pet may take your mind off of things but at the same time they can be difficult to take care of. Sometimes if you get your doctor to fill the paper work out you can make your dog a service or thearpy animal and you can take them anywhere. Maybe be different where you are but it might be a good thing to look into!

 

[tiloah]

I think a dog is a good idea. There is a lot of research that shows they are good for your health (and you can tell your parents that). I wish I could have had a dog while I was in college... or NOW. HA!

I would also like to chime in for getting a shelter dog.

 

[brieyourbest]

hey all!

i am getting my puppy on the 18th. i am getting a little maltese girl named Kate [i am renaming her though]. she seems to be the sweetest, most well tempered little doggie in the whole wide world. i love her already.

 

[Grumbletum]

Yay! I'm sure you're gonna be very happy together. Can't wait to see some pics.

 

[beth]

Yup, got to have photos! Good luck with your new friend. Dogs are great, just give them a stable home with love and care and they'll be your best friend bar none.

 

[KWalker]

I'm 21, live on my own with just my fiance. I work my butt off so I can afford things. We decided to get a puppy last year, and it was the best purchase I've ever made. We got him young so it was very expensive getting all of his shots, and paying for vet visits, so it added some stress, but when you feel like you have nobody else to talk to, or you're just down in the dumps, your dog is always there for you.

I could have the worst day at work, but walking into my apartment, and having my dog attack me with kisses, puts me in a great mood. He's a crazy dog, and doesnt seem to ever stop running around the apartment, he's a terrible walker with a leash, and most people say he needs some training, but in the end, he's one of the best things that has ever happened to me. He makes me happy, I let him be happy. Who cares if he can't walk on a leash, Who cares if he jumps on some strangers out of excitement. He's a dog. Let him enjoy his life!

We have a 1 year old miniature schnauzer, and I would buy another anyday if I could afford it. I really hope you can get one. You wont regret it!