Ranting about stupid dog ownership

[teigyr]

This thread definitely took a turn.

I think anyone who takes the responsibility for a life (whether it be human or animal) has a responsibility to make the right choice when they decide to do it. I've seen pets (both cats and dogs) taken to the shelter due to convenience and lack thereof.

When you first adopt an animal, there is adjustment. NONE of our cats are perfect (though they'd probably like you to believe it) and all went through a lot of time before they learned the rules.

I really feel sorry for offleash/poorly trained dogs because no matter what the breed, it isn't their fault. There are some less than stellar people who seek out certain breeds just for the status factor. Yeah, I get scared when I am riding or running and there is an offleash dog but to be honest, the most nipping ones have been the smaller dogs. I've been known to yell at the owners, especially if the dog is circling me and looks menacing.

I guess I put a lot of thought into life decisions and a pet is one of those. We can't own a dog due to time constraints and as much as I'd love to, I realize it wouldn't be fair. I have little patience or tolerance for people who take these things lightly and if I could have them put down instead of the dog, I'd probably be good with that.

And Mimi's right re the nature of animals and size. We have a 25 lb cat who really IS a nice guy but if he takes a swipe at us (or jumps up on the bed using his claws), it is a lot more damaging than one of the 9 lb cats. It just is...it's not that he is bad but he has the capacity to hurt us even if he doesn't intend it. He also knows his size and I'm sure most animals do. Lesson learned...always cover your feet at night