In my sophomore year of high school, I was sure that there would be no childhood dog for me. My parents were adamant about our pet-free home-- after all, there were minor allergies to consider and conflicting schedules. But as luck would have it, my parents had a change of heart. We picked up our pup from a breeder and took home our three-month-old shorkie (half Shih-Tzu and half Yorkshire Terrier). Of course, my Dad, the historian, insisted he picked the name; which is why our lovable dog is named Ike for Dwight D. Eisenhower. It’s been 3 years and we still like Ike; which is why I am confident that dogs make the best pets for five main reasons.
1. They Brighten Your Day
It’s been scientifically proven that dogs make you happy. But realistically, we didn’t need science to tell us this. After all, who wouldn't feel better when greeted by an adorable [insert your preferred dog breed here]? Not to mention, the shenanigans that Ike gets up to continually keeps me laughing.
2. Love You No Matter What
Dogs are loyal creatures and are often inseparable from their owners. My dog specifically, shows that he cares by never leaving my bedside if I'm sick. You can't ask for a better companion.
3. Promote A Healthier Lifestyle
If there is one thing I appreciate about Ike, it's his persistence to get me out of the house. Having a dog can push you into exercising more, whether this means walking around the neighbourhood, or going to the park to throw a ball. Every dog is different, but chances are they'll force you to step away from the computer.
4. Teach Responsibility
Caring for a dog has taught me a lot about being reliable. 'Feed the dog, walk the dog and bath the dog' is a mantra I often think of when it comes to owning Ike. There is a considerable amount of chores when you own a dog, but I'm satisfied with the knowledge that my dog is happy and healthy.
5. Become A Part of the Family
Dogs make great additions to the family and it's pointless trying to deny it. My dog is subject of many photos and I will not hesitate to tell strangers all about him. A family dog also enjoys a place on the annual Christmas card.
