RETIREES SECOND TO YOUNG FAMILIES IN DOG OWNERSHIP

Everyone expects the family with young children to have a Labrador

Retriever, but surveys from the pet manufacturers trade association reveals

that retirees and other seniors now from the second largest group of dog owners.

After years of working long hours or frequent traveling, retirees often have the

time and the need for companionship. A well-chosen dog can help them stay fit

and connected to their neighborhoods.

Small dogs, the 20-breeds that make up the American Kennel Club's

Toy breed class, are ideal for older owners, said Louise Louis.

Ms. Louis is a former breeder and owner of www.toybreeds.com,

a website that matches Toy breeds to owner's lifestyles.

"It's much easier to control a 10-pound dog than a Labrador

ten times that size," Ms. Louis notes.

"There's less maintenance and lower food bills."

Even with their small size, however, these are dogs. They do require a commitment

of time and energy. Ms. Louis offered ten tips to help retirees decide if owning

a dog is right for them.

1. Are there any size or weight restrictions on dogs within your condominium

or retirement community? Many won't allow dogs over 20-pounds.

2. Do you keep your home very warm? Some dogs are bothered by warm

room temperatures. A Chihuahua would be a better choice than Shih Tzu in that case.

3. How much dog can you lift? A Pug is a happy-go-lucky companion but

may weigh 18-pounds while a Yorkshire Terrier usually doesn't exceed 7-pounds.

4. How much grooming can you do? If arthritis is a problem, avoid longhaired

breeds such as Pekingese or Maltese and look at short, smooth-haired dogs such as

Toy Manchester Terrier. Beautiful coats are beautiful because they're groomed daily.

5. How much exercise does the dog need? Any Terrier is a high-energy dog requiring

outdoor exercise. On the other hand, an English Toy Spaniel or Japanese Chin can get

all the exercise they need inside an apartment.

6. Is the breed's temperament a good match with you? Some people find Toy Poodles

too challenging and would do better with the sweet-tempered Papillon.

7. Are you prepared for the costs of dog ownership? The bare minimum estimate

for dog ownership is $360 a year.

8. Can you acquire pet insurance? Many companies offer group rates to their employees

and retirees. If you're still working, you should investigate this before your retire.

9. Would being a "foster" owner satisfy your need for canine companionship?

Even if you don't want to take a dog into your home, shelters always need

people who can walk and play with the dogs or provide temporary housing.

10. Finally, have you considered what happens to your dog if you can't care for him?

Toy breeds often live 15-years or longer. Be sure to include instructions in your will

on how your pet should be placed.

With a little forethought and planning, you can select the right breed of dog

for your lifestyle and enjoy many happy years together.

CONTACT: Louise Louis
1198 Pacific Coast Hwy D-129
Seal Beach, CA USA
714-642-0153
louise@toybreeds.com












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