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Dog Ownership: The Good, the Bad, the Ugly

Written by Nidhi Nagaraj

Edited by Aarohi Salaria

Owning a dog can be quite a wonderful yet multi-faceted time where one shares in delight and responsibility alike. Before bringing a furry companion into the home, one must prepare oneself to learn what commitments are involved. Everything from daily care to emotional support requires thinking when owning a dog.


The central idea of dog ownership would be daily care. Feeding is a basic necessity, and it includes picking a proper diet for the age and health condition, establishing a schedule, and providing continuous access to fresh water. Physical or psychological exercise is the second constituent in the dog's life. These include daily walks, time to play, or mental stimulation through toys or games. Besides, while grooming may vary between breeds, it is an essential activity that is classically considered necessary for the maintenance of your dog's health. Regular brushing, bath time, and dental care help avoid health problems and ensure comfort. Training is another essential aspect; dogs need clear guidance on how to behave well and safely interact with others.


Another significant responsibility involves health care. Vaccinations, check-ups, and other regular veterinary visits are in order, and such costs should be reflected in any pet budget. Dauntingly enough, these responsibilities surely make owning a dog quite worth the extra effort.


With these regulatory components in mind, it’s also important to recognize the numerous benefits that come with welcoming a furry companion into your home.


One of the great benefits that a dog can give is companionship. Dogs are very loyal and affectionate, offering very steady support that helps to reduce loneliness. The playful nature makes one get into social interaction, creating an avenue where one meets other dog owners and makes friends for themselves. Owning a dog encourages physical activity, such as regular walking, which improves the health of both the dog and its owner.


The drawbacks are that dog ownership requires an enormous amount of time, which can be quite stressful and demanding; attention and care may or may not be feasible with very busy lifestyles. Expenses-food, grooming, and veterinary care-build up fast. It is very inconvenient to travel and necessitates making sitters or kennel arrangements.


When I adopted my golden retriever, Ruby, little did I know how life-changing things would turn out. She came into my life when I needed her most and was bound to bring a lot of cheer and stability with her presence. Her presence in my life made me feel enthusiastic, like indulging in more physical and social activities. It was during the training sessions that responsibility and patience were bestowed on me, joining us more strongly together and improving my overall well-being.


But ownership calls for commitment and care, too, and often challenges balance the rewards. Adopting Ruby was one of the main life-changing decisions that enriched my life in more ways than I ever could have imagined. So, embracing this journey in dog ownership may just change your world for good.

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