As a full-time pre-vet student working part-time and studying whenever I get the chance, I couldn't think of a better way to fill up more of my limited time than to raise a service dog in training. While raising a service dog in training full time is a very rigorous and tedious process, I think most people who have raised any kind of puppy will be able to relate.
1. Commitment
To the average person a dog is a pet, but to a dog person a dog is their child, a part of the family, a way of life. Once that commitment is made there is no going back and even when you have your doubts, deep down you know you would never really change your mind.
2. Patience
Coming home to your pup somehow destroying half your house from inside the crate can be pretty frustrating and really confusing... but they look so innocent, how could you possibly be mad?? They all have their moments, but sometimes you just have to remind yourself they're still a puppy.
Some skills come to them naturally and others might take months to master. Regardless, the feeling of success in the end is immeasurable.
3. Even if They Can't Respond, They Understand
I think we've all had those days when there is no one else you'd rather talk to than your pup. They have heard it all from the bad stuff (relationship problems, fights with friends, contemplating dropping out of school every other day) to the good stuff (another semester finally over, that awesome new job you just got). And even though they can't give you any advice or tell you how happy they are for you, the look in their eyes seems to do it for them.
4. Time Management (Sort of)
When your dog has a busier schedule than you between vet visits, puppy class, play dates, daily walks, outings, and practicing socialization, it's probably a good idea to get a planner to write everything down in. But don't forget to check it constantly or else will spiral out of control faster than you'd expect.
5. How to Laugh About the Little Things
Nothing is better than watching your pup chase their tail around for 5 minutes straight and that doesn't even compare to the ridiculous faces you'll see them make. Having your own personal comedian by your side 24/7 is definitely great stress relief!
6. Nothing Ever Goes According to Plan
We all have those days when we feel like everything is in place and nothing could go wrong...until your dog decides they're going to turn your lovely evening stroll into a swim in the pond. No big deal, I can cancel dinner plans to give you (and myself) a bath.
7. Feel No Shame
To the average person a puppy pooping in the middle of the produce section at the grocery store, or barking at their waitress is probably a horrifying experience. To me, just an average day in the life of, no biggie. Clean it up, apologize, and move on!
8. You Don't Truly Know a Dog Until You Spend Every Moment of Your Life With Them
From the pace they walk at, to the exact spot they prefer to be pet, to their favorite place to sleep, you know it all down to the smallest detail.
9. Your Dog is Perfect Despite Their Imperfections
Maybe your dog isn't top of their class, but hey the English language is constantly changing and there are definitely more than enough reasons to support changing the definition of perfection to your dog's name.
10. How to Love Unconditionally
There are so many different types of love especially between humans, but a dog's love just can't compare. To them, love is always no matter what. They don't hold grudges or expectations and they certainly never discriminate because to them love is love, no stipulations. Give it to them and they'll give you their all.
11. Life Is Better With a Dog
Waking up in the morning is just easier. No matter what they day ahead holds, you know that you have a friend beside you to get you through the best and worst times.
