Weds 15th July: Making a lifetime promise

New puppies Percy and Rubble, a 15+ year commitment

My Lamma dogs have the enviable option of being able to choose for themselves what they want to do and where they want to go, within reason of course, and being creatures of habit and routine even if the front gate was left open they wouldn't step outside if it wasn't the right time of day.  The problem with this rigid adherence to the daily schedule is that a couple of the dogs joining the morning walk with me (and again this is always their choice) are too old now to be able to enjoy it, and find the heat exhausting.  However as much as I try to persuade them to stay home they insist on coming, panting their way along the tracks and making me feel guilty as I walk ahead, and collapsing in a heap when we finally get home.

Having a routine is what makes dogs feel comfortable and secure, and that means knowing what time to get up and go to bed, and when meals and walks happen. Many dog owners swear that their pets have an internal clock and can tell the time, waiting expectantly for dinner or to go out.  I remember as a child having a dog who recognised the theme music to a daily TV show because he always got taken out for a walk when it played at the end (never the beginning).

The reason for mentioning this is because everywhere now routine is something that isn't normal any more, and we're seeing a lot of adoption enquiries from single people who are living on their own and spending a lot more time at home than they previously did.  Having a dog as a companion seems to be a natural thing to do, and it's been reported that both adoptions and puppy buying has increased tremendously internationally, and Hong Kong is no exception.

Having a dog is a special kind of relationship because while it means unconditional love and loyalty on hand whenever you want it, it also means a commitment from the human side that can too easily become tiresome.  A dogs needs to go out whether or not you feel like it or the weather isn't too good, or you're just tired.   You can't be at work all day and then go out with your friends in the evening and simply ignore the fact that your dog is at home waiting for you.  When restrictions on travel are eased and you feel like a weekend getaway, or you want to take a longer holiday, what will you do with your dog?  A dog is someone who relies on you for absolutely everything, and will rely on you for the rest of its life.  Please think about that when you decide to apply to adopt, because this commitment is not something that can just be handed back when it no longer suits.  When you complete the questionnaire (www.hongkongdogrescue.com/adopt/adoption-questionnaire/) answer carefully and truthfully, and if it make you stop and think, then maybe just stop.