Stop! In The Name Of Puppy Love (NAPSA)—Few things tug harder at heartstrings than a cute, cuddly puppy. But tempting though it may be to give one as a present for every special occasion from Christmas to birthdays, it’s important to remember that same cutie is a lifetime responsibility that only keeps growing...and eating...and barking...and shedding. Dogs can live up to 20 years, and being a responsible owner means being prepared to provide plenty of exercise, training, veterinary care, and—most important—love and attention. If you want to give your favorite dog lover a gift, the American Kennel Club (AKC) suggests you consider gift-wrapping dog toys or supplies such as a leash or foodbowl to symbolize the gift to come. Then talk to the recipient about the commitment necessary to make sure heor she is prepared for the responsibility. After that, you can search for the right dog together. An important first step is to carefully research the breed that best suits the prospective pet owner’s preferences and lifestyle. The AKC offers profiles, videos and pictures on its Web site of 150 breeds. Some of the questions that need to be considered when getting a dog include: *Do you know how big the dog will grow? *Do you have enough room, both inside and out, to meet its exercise needs? *Is the yard fenced in? If the dog will live in an apartment, who will walk it at least three times a day? Rather than giving a puppy as a gift, consider a toy or other doggie treat. *Do you know how active it will be? *Will its temperament and personality fit the owners’? *Do you have the time to housebreak and obedience train a puppy? *Who will care for the dog when the owner is away on vacation and how many hours of the day will the dog be left alone? *Can the owner afford the necessary vaccinations and visits to the veterinarian? *Where will the dog be kept whenno one is home? *Will its coat require special care and professional grooming? Once you have determined the breed of dog you want, attend dog shows, talk to owners of the breed and check out the AKC Website, www.akc.org, to find a responsible breeder. That way you can be more sure you’ve got a happy, healthy puppy that’s been properly socialized. When it comes to dog ownership, it’s important to use your head as well as your heart.
