Why adopting a dog scores waaaay over purchasing one

There are plenty of compelling reasons other than what I've touched upon below, though these are my favorites :) I've split them up as "Head reasons" and "Heart reasons" - you'll see why!

Head Reasons:
1. The expenses are lower: This is fairly obvious - you don't pay to adopt a dog; and if its adopted from a shelter, its normally been speyed and vaccinated. If you're adopting a stray, then the medical expenditures benefit doesnt exist (of course!).

2. Potty training... check!: If you aren't adopting a puppy, this is a HUGE benefit. Yes, the dog will need to learn how to walk on a leash, and other 'civilised' behaviours, but it is POTTY TRAINED!! This works very well if you don't have a lot of help or if you live in an apartment. Also, contrary to popular beleif, basic training is very possible even for older dogs... though it does take some extra TLC and patience!

3. Social skills... check!: This is a generalisation and does not apply to all dogs - you will need to observe this for yourself. Most dogs however, whether from the street or from a shelter, are already socialised... they'd have to be, won't they! This makes them fantastic companions for pets you may already own. Some strays develop an aversion to children though - often because of cruelty meted out to them by kids. Always assess reactions to kids (if possible, your own) before finalising the adoption.

Heart Reasons
1. You're saving a life: It doesn't get any bigger than that. Most shelters have to put dogs down due to overpopulation. I don't need to tell you what happens to dogs on the street.

2. You're providing a home: And gaining a great buddy in return! The relationship is truly mutually beneficial. Nothing beats coming home to big, happy doggy kisses! :)

In the larger scheme of things, dogs, or any pets for that matter, give us much more in return than they take from us. The emotional, physical, mental benefits far outwiegh any temporary inconveniences they sometimes cause us. Add to that all the unconditional love that only a pet can give, and you've got a bargain you cannot refuse. :)

Homemade Hi Quality Hi Protein Doggy Chow!

Here's a really simple doggie recipe that I'm using with my dogs... and they love it! It comes recommended by our vet, and the trainer-breeder who's currently working with our dogs. Check it out!

2 Cups Rice (Brown)
2 Cups Lentils (depending on where you are, choose the most high protein one available)
1 Cup Soy nuggets (raw)
3 Cups chopped vegetables - whatever is in season(a mix of green, red and yellow in 1:3:2 proportion. Avoid potatoes... too much starch)

There are 2 versions that result from this depending on the cooking method and the amount of water used - pressure cook for a dry(ish) dish, or stew in a cooking pot (the rice makes this tricky). My dogs love the dry version. :)

When serving(the dry version), I add some curd to make it wet, and hence easier to swallow. I also add an egg for my boxer, as he's still in his growing period... very skinny!

Caution:
Some dogs have allergic reactions to some vegetables - especially green ones. Please vary the recipe to suit your dog.
Never use mushrooms... nearly all dogs are allergic to them.
Do not add more green vegetables... most greens have a laxative effect, and can cause runny tummies for dogs. (Have experienced this everytime I switched the yellows and greens around)
Some dogs are allergic to soy - I use Soy as a substitute for meat (almost the same protein), but meat will do just as well... good quality lean beef is highly recommended!

Thats it!!

The great thing about this recipe is that you can cook 3 days worth of it in one go, and reheat and serve with any additions you'd like to make.

Enjoy! And let me know if your dog liked it! :)