Hundreds of unwanted dogs end up at the Nicosia Dog Shelter each year. The shelter’s director, Sharon Beckett, urges those thinking of getting a dog for Christmas to consider the work and expense it entails
Can you afford a dog?
There are necessary vets’ expenses. Microchipping, annual vaccinations, regular anti parasite treatments, sterilisation operations and other veterinary bills can mount up to hundreds of euros. Other costs include food, bedding and maybe special dietary needs, dog proofing the garden and sometimes the house, and lots of little extras along the way.
A lifetime commitment
You need to take into consideration that the dog may live up to 16 years. You have to try to consider how your circumstances may change during that time, for example the kids growing up, changing career, changing house and changing country.
Children want pets
All children at some point beg for a puppy. It’s natural for children to love cute animals, but problems arise when the parents give in to their child’s whim without really understanding the commitment. Do you have the time to train a new dog? To clean up after him? Do you have the patience to tolerate the odd chewed bit of rug or furniture? Do you have the time and energy every day to take him for walks, whatever the weather? Children and teenagers will promise faithfully to take on these tasks, but in my experience it is the parents who must be prepared to commit to these.
Are you likely to leave Cyprus?
If there is any chance you will leave the country permanently you must consider the expense and procedure of taking your pet with you. Many dogs end up in the shelters here because the owners could not afford to take them with them. It is extremely difficult to find homes for dogs over one to two years old and these dogs often have no future.
Holidays
You must leave your pet in the care of responsible people. Taking your dog to a relative or friend while you are away may be an option but make sure your dog knows the people and trusts them and feels safe with them. Dogs miss their families when they are away and if the dog is in unfamiliar surroundings he may try to escape and get back home again. The shelters have many dogs brought in during the holiday seasons and many phone calls reporting dogs going missing while the owners are away.
Boarding kennels can be another big holiday expense if you are going away. You get what you pay for however so always visit the kennel before you book. Check the sleeping area and the exercise area. Look at the pets that are already staying there do they look comfortable and are the kennels clean? What do they smell like? And you must book well in advance. The better the kennel the more notice you will have to give them in advance.
Advice for potential new dog owners
Even if you are not the type who treats their pets like babies, having a dog is similar to having a child. It is a constant responsibility.
Training a new dog and helping it to adjust to its new home takes time and patience.
Every time you leave your home you must consider the dog. If you are out at work how long will you be gone and is he in a safe and comfortable place?
Have a plan for where your dog will stay when you go away.
If there may be a chance you will leave Cyprus, prepare for the procedure and expense of taking your dog. In the case of going to the UK this procedure takes at least seven months.
If you are in rented accommodation you must make sure the landlord does not object to you having a dog.
Preparation is everything. Prepare your home and family for the new addition. Take time off work even. Expect some disruption to your usual routine. Do some research into what type of dog suits your lifestyle, if you are a fit and active family, an active dog will suit you. If you live in an apartment and you are not the outdoors type, don’t choose a dog which needs lots of space and exercise.
Most importantly
Be prepared to bond with your new pet. The more you put into doing the best for your dog the more rewarding you will find the experience. Be prepared to fall in love with an animal, because when you give a dog the chance he will love you unconditionally. He will brighten up your days, show you a side to life you hadn’t noticed before. He will help you stay healthy in mind and spirit. He will be your best friend, so you owe it to him to be his.
