This isn't perhaps so dramatic as the post title suggests so chill What it is, is that I want a lab and thank God I've had a lot of encouragement from the forum members in this area. However, there is a small but real risk that my financial situation could change in the future and I would have to get a new job then pretty sharpish or risk being unable to keep my pal. So what should I do; should I risk it knowing that I can give a lot of love and attention to a dog and the worst may never happen or do I think no, I shouldn't take the risk with causing such havoc in a dog's life. What would you do?
Re: A Dog's Life...should we risk it? I work for a small local charity and my job is at risk nearly every year. Even though I am married, it would stretch us to breaking point. This never stopped us getting Harley (now 9 months old). The way I see it is if my job lost it's funding, I would get any job to tide us over financially. Harley is like my child, I would do any job to ensure she was fed etc. Anyone could be in that position at anytime with the climate in my opinion.
Re: A Dog's Life...should we risk it? Thx Naya. I guess I'm more of a worrier but knowing you were brave gives me confidence
Re: A Dog's Life...should we risk it? I agree we don't have any kids yet but if we lost our jobs i would do any job to feed our Nero....i would never leave him go, i would find a way
Re: A Dog's Life...should we risk it? I think you are being very sensible thinking ahead and how you would cope etc. However it might never happen or it could happen to anyone. You can't predict the future you can only enjoy and make the most of now. As long as you are aware of the expense a dog can be, which from the sounds of it you are, it won't come as too much of a shock if the worst happens and you can plan accordingly. You sound like you know what a big commitment owning a dog is and you aren't going into it lightly. I hope it all goes really well for you.
Re: A Dog's Life...should we risk it? I would clean pig stys for a living rather than give up my dog Nothing is 100% secure for anyone. Saving a bit of money for a rainy day might be a good plan. Pet health insurance is another thing you could research while you're looking for a pup.
Re: A Dog's Life...should we risk it? I think it is really wise of you to think of these things. Before we get them, a dog is a luxury. Once we have them, they are a member of our family and we go the extra mile for them. So, before you get a dog, I think you have to be pretty sure that you will be able to financially cope with expected expenses and reasonable (not out of the ordinary) medical expenses plus insurance if you couldn't cope with unusual medical expenses. I'd say that your financial planning for yourself, should you lose your your job, should be able to be expanded to cover your dog too.
Re: A Dog's Life...should we risk it? Things can change so quickly, we can all have a change of circumstances; we can all go from being secure to being vulnerable. Aim to have some contingency plan if you can. If you think it through and reckon you could cope then take the plunge; life's too short.
Re: A Dog's Life...should we risk it? Thanks to all for your advice and support. I've been away for a few days checking out my new place and I'm almost certain now that a dog is going to be a great adventure for me. I'm certainly intending to get Pet Insurance to cover a couple of years into the future so that should give some security and for the rest I'll hope and pray ;D
