Don’t tell me you’re a part-time pet parent!

Do you let your dog loose in the streets for your own convenience? Because it’s easier than having to walk your pet? Many pet parents have been known to do this - just let your dog out; dog wanders off to pee and poop at will; pet parent doesn’t have to exert him or herself to walk the dog; or clean up after dog. Nor deal with irate neighbors and passersby. Simple, isn’t it?

Speaking for myself - it would make me see red if my mom did that to me. But then, of course, she wouldn’t. Because she understands that we dogs need our exercise. And routines. And rituals. There’s something about that air of expectancy that leads up to the walk. I can feel the excitement building up when I see the harness and leash in my mom’s hands; when it’s placed over my shoulders (do dogs have shoulders?) and the leash is clicked into place. I can feel my tail-wag building up speed, along with my excited panting. And this is something I experience at least twice a day, if not thrice.

And then, the moment I’ve been waiting for, arrives - the front door is opened, and we step out into this world of so many sights and smells. I want to pull ahead, stick my nose into the bushes and inhale deeply, run along the pavement sniffing the ground to identify the pooch that had gone before me - but alas, I’ve been trained to walk next to my parent, at a sedate pace, without pulling on the leash. So that’s what I do.

And yet, there are times when I just can’t help myself. Like when we meet some of my favorite people (dog people!), I just want to throw myself into their arms, to get scratched and stroked and petted - but it’s hell on my mom’s arms and shoulders!

As we walk, with my mom sometimes encouraging me, sometimes admonishing me, I feel safe and secure because this is something we do regularly, passing through familiar spots, greeting familiar faces (with familiar smells!) - and I know she has my back. All the way until we get back home safe and sound, feeling tired and satisfied.

Why don’t people realize how secure we dogs feel (especially rescue dogs!) when we have a routine, which includes monitored walks, regular meals, and regular play times, and of course, plenty of love and attention from our families.

Sending a pet dog out to wander around outside, unleashed and unsupervised, is an abdication of responsibility. Please remember, whenever you adopt a dog, that you’re making a commitment for life - your dog’s life. Adopting a pet comes with a series of responsibilities, like feeding nutritious food; regular exercise; play time; cuddle time; and so much more. All designed to ensure your pet’s mental and physical wellbeing.

And what do you get in return? Unlimited love, gratitude and loyalty. The kind few humans can give you.

So, go for it. Be a full-time pet parent. The rewards are overwhelming. Ask my mom - for the love of dog!