WeeWee

Is this type of pet for me?

This little dog ran out into the road, in front of our car. Unable to avoid her, she was struck. Her owners didn't offer to take her to the vet, or to do anything! She was rushed to the vet, and somehow survived the night. There were no internal injuries, but her back left leg was broken. Forfeiting our beach vacation, we put up the money for her treatments, and took her home. She is still here......... : )

Jack Russell/Rat terriers are HYPER dogs! I warned my family about this, and I'm telling you, too. Do NOT get this type of dog, unless you are willing to invest time and patience, and maybe sacrifice some unedible things, such as shoes or socks!

On a positive note, terriers are extremely loyal, loving, and INTELLIGENT! You might be hard pressed to find all these qualities in another dog. Wee, short for "WeeWee", because I spent the first three months, doing nothing but wiping that up, is very in tune to my feelings. She is like velcro on four legs, and has been there with me though some very difficult times. She is the kind of dog, who will snuggle up to me, and just be there for me, when I cry.

If you feel like this is the type of pet for you, here are some tips. I hope you will find them helpful!

1. Keep a rawhide bone with the dog at all times. Terriers LOVE to chew! Trust me on this one. The rawhide is much less expensive than the furniture or the shoes!

2. Lead your dog not into temptation. If you can put it away, then please do so. Those smelly socks of your children, or some random plastic cup may not seem appealing to you, but for the terrier, these are possible meals.

3. Use certain words for certain things. These dogs are SMART!!!! Ours understands a fair number of words. Sometimes we have to spell certain things, because you don't want to get your terrier's hopes up for nothing. Trust me!

4. Reward, reward, reward!!!! When your terrier does do the right things, praise and pet your dog! You don't have to feed her doggie treats all the time; she loves knowing you are happy with her.

If you decide on this type of pet, please don't forget to keep her updated on her shots, and spayed! Enjoy! There will not be too many dull moments! : )