Truth Tuesday: Why you shouldn't get a dog

I am a dog-lover, all the way. I volunteer at an animal shelter, my family has three dogs, I cry at dog videos online, and I stop to pet every dog I see on the street (after I ask the owner, of course.)

However, I don't think everyone should get a dog. Here's why.

As a volunteer at an animal shelter, I have seen too many dogs brought in, living in a 6' x 6' cage for over a year because whoever owned them before didn't want them anymore.

I cannot imagine looking into my dog's eyes and leaving him locked up behind a metal gate.

Giving up your dog for adoption is the easy way out of training, spending money on vet bills, and paying for dog food, but if that's even something you're considering for your future, it is a sure sign that you should not be getting a dog in the first place.

My favorite dog at the shelter, RJ, was returned just two weeks after being adopted because his new family was moving and they didn't want to take him with them. If you are moving and cannot, or simply don't want to, have a dog, don't get one. RJ is a sweetheart and deserves a loving home, but I'm not sure how much good it does to take him out for a few weeks just to bring him back again.

There is another dog, Layla, who was taken to the shelter for "destructive tendencies." She is a puppy, and whoever owned her didn't want to take the time to train her properly. If you don't want to train your animal, don't get one.

It is so unfair, and truly heartbreaking, for the animals to be loved and left at your leisure.

I don't want to get preachy, but if you do not have the time, money, or energy to commit to having a dog, or any other animal, do not get one.

The minute you buy or adopt a dog, you become their sole caregiver. Your dog doesn't care if you had a bad day, or if you're too busy to take them for a walk, or if you have other work you want to do before you teach them right from wrong. All your dog cares about is loving you, and getting the proper care is common sense. If you don't want that responsibility, do not get an animal.

You wouldn't neglect your best friend, so why neglect your dog?

However, if you do have time, energy, and funds to take care of a pet for its entire life, then I absolutely think you should get an animal. There is nothing better than coming home from a tough day to see your dog, wagging his tail, and cuddling up next to him on the couch to watch your favorite show.

Also, the next time you look for a dog, check out your local shelter. Adopting is so rewarding; you get to save an animal's life, and you gain a best friend in the process. Is there anything better?

Please do not let your pet be the dog that stares through metal bars with sad eyes, hoping one day you will come back to rescue him. Please do not get an animal if you do not have the means to take care of it.