Jack Russell Terriers are so cute but……..

You may remember Eddie the Jack Russell Terrier form the hit TV show Frazier.  Eddie was loyal, smart, and so very cute.  I, too, would eventually have my own cute little Jack Russell Terrier.  I named her Snow because of her very white coat.  A friend had given me Snow as a present – as a companion against loneliness.  Actually, I was too busy to feel lonely, and I was not looking for a companion.  However, after holding this cute tiny puppy in the palm of my hand, I was hooked.

Snow displayed the usual traits of a Jack Russell Terrier.  She was energetic, tenacious, affectionate, playful, and interactive.  Oh, did I say energetic.  Although a wonderful small dog (they average 9-15 pounds), I was not the right owner for Snow.  During the day I had a full time job, and in the evenings I attended graduate school.  Not an ideal home life for an energetic puppy.  Snow, out of boredom, began digging all over the house – the walls, carpeting, and even through the back of my sofa.  Poor Snow was not getting the exercise and the play time that Jack Russell’s require.  I had no one to blame for her bad behavior but myself.  I had not done the research, and now, I had a dog that needed more attention than I could give her.

Eventually, as Snow grew, she developed medical problems as well; she had allergies and skin rashes.  I had to take her to the veterinarian often.  In the end, I spent a lot of money on those visits, which did not include the medications needed to control her various conditions.  Again, I was the victim and the culprit of poor planning and lack of research.  I eventually found Snow a wonderful new home – one that would provide her with the attention and exercise that she needed.  But most importantly, they could afford the medication and veterinarian visits required to treat her on-going medical needs.

I, in turn, was left with a broken heart and a much thinner wallet, but now I had knowledge.  I would not have another pet in my home without understanding the unique traits that define each breed.  Currently, I have a cat – a perfect match for my lifestyle and personality.  If you are considering adding a new pet to your family then you must take the time to do the research.  The internet can make this process quick and easy.  Also, try to ask someone that already owns the breed you are considering – they can give you wonderful information too.  Do not choose a pet based on such frivolous factors as: it is cute, it is popular, I saw it on a show and fell in love, or everyone has one.  Be a responsible pet owner – do yourself a favor and the animal too – look at the history, trait, and the needs of the breed you are considering.  And, in turn, you will have a loving, loyal, and fun companion.