Hi,

I am seriously looking into getting a companion for my lonely Staffie. Ideally i would like to purchase a young dog or puppy around christmas time, as i have 3 weeks off work. I am getting married in March next year in Dom Rep. and as my family are coming to the wedding, i have no one to look after my dog, so for the first time i will have to put her or them in kennels for i week.
I would like some advise as after looking into getting another dog and as my Staffie would love a friend to love, i don't want to put such a young pup into kennels and if we don't get a pup in December i'm not sure that i can have as much time off with a new pup again. is there any alternative? My doggie walker is going away the exact same week (typical) and i am getting desperate as i don't really want to put my Staff in kennels, she is very sensitive and would probably go into a decline, bless her.

Please can anyone give me a bit of advise of ages of pups that go into kennels or know of anyone that could board my doggie/s i live in West London, if there is anyone close by that boards dogs.

Thankyou
Suzi

Hi Suzi,

If you read the note - (2nd one below yours under the general section) title is 'sad little mum and pups' there are some puppies that need good, loving homes - you may want to contact Mattie if it's not too far away for you.

Regards
Donna

Suzi

If you are looking at getting one around Christmas please start looking now - and speaking to breeders, rescue places etc and tell them why you are looking to get a dog then. Most places will not sell puppies around Christmas as they are afraid they will get them back once the novelty wears off. They are trying to stop those people who impulse by animals for a seasonal gift without putting any thought into it. If you already have your name out there along with your reasons for that choice of timing I'm sure you'll have no problem.

Wendy

Dear All,

Thank you for your responce. Yes i have been looking for pups and did find a litter but they were ready in September, which is a little early for me as i have time off a Christmas. I do understand that people try not to breed pups at christmas, for the reasons you put forward and i might be a little hard.

I will try to get in touch and find out about the pups you suggested, but again it may be too soon. I need to be at home with the new baby.

Again if anyone has any advise on Kenneling a young dog i would be grateful

Regards
Suzi

Suzi,

if you are looking for a companion have you considered an older dog maybe a rescue. I would worry about taking on a small puppy and only being at home for 3 weeks before returning back to work. There are always dogs looking for new homes for various reasons and you might want to keep an eye on www.animalrescuers.co.uk ,dogpages.co.uk or pedigreedogs.co.uk.

Have you considered getting an animal sitter to live in your house whilst you are away, killing 2 birds with one stone as not only is your house looked after but your dog might be happier in his own enviroment. I have never used them however I am sure many people have and found them ideal. My 3 go to kennels and if you are considering kennels the best way to find one is ask around and go on a personal recommendation.

It is still good to get in touch with people and tell them your timing. They may be able to pass on your details to someone they know is planning a litter for later. Or they may have a dog they want to run on for an extra copule of months.

Wendy

Thanks for all your help, i will try all options.

Suzi