Bringing a dog into your family can be exciting.
A dog can provide a child with special needs among other things with companionship, confidence, a routine, motivation, and also a good friend. A dog also comes with a sense of responsibility.
Before you pick a dog, think about these seven important questions.
1. What is it that makes us want a dog?
Give this some thought.
Do you want companionship?
A family pet?
What can encourage your child to go outside?
Are you at some stage thinking about a career in service dog work?
There is no correct answer.
Having a clear idea of your goal can enable you to steer clear of unrealistic expectations.
2. How Does My Child Feel About Dogs?
To like dogs in pictures is different from actually living with one.
If you can, spend some time with dogs.
Observe your child’s reaction to a dog barking, licking its fur, moving, and when being touched.
3. Will my child be able to respect the dog’s boundaries?
Dogs need breaks too.
Children have to be taught that a dog needs some space when it is eating, sleeping, hiding, or walking away.
An adult may have to keep a close eye on these interactions if their child’s needs dictate that.
4. How Much Daily Care Can We Actually Manage?
Dogs have to be fed, exercised, have their fur groomed, taken to the vet, trained, and given attention.
You should also think about the hard days.
Who looks after the dog when your child is having a difficult afternoon?
Who handles veterinary appointments?
Anyone going to take over when life becomes busy?
5. Which Energy Level Is Suitable for Our House?
A very active dog can be ideal for a household that leads an active lifestyle.
In a household that is busy or under stress, a dog with a high energy level can be tiring.
Select a dog that matches the actual lifestyle you lead, not just the lifestyle that you wish you had.
6. Puppy or Adult Dog?
Taking on a puppy means that your family can start developing habits together.
Puppies also require a great deal of training.
An adult dog may already be house-trained and may have a more predictable personality.
There is no correct or incorrect choice in this situation.
7. Are We Making a Choice on Behalf of the Entire Family?
It is very important that your child’s needs are met.
But do not forget that the dog will be a member of the entire family.
Consider other children, adults, pets, your budget, where you live, your schedule, any allergies you have, and your future plans.
Give Yourself Permission to Wait
Sometimes, after doing your research, you might come to a surprising conclusion:
Not yet.
That is okay.
One of the most responsible decisions you can make is to wait until the right time arrives.
A dog can bring great joy to a family with special needs.
The best relationships start when both your family and the dog have what they need to thrive.
