FAQ

I want a dog to teach my child responsibility.

Routine care and training of the pet is ultimately an adult responsibility.  The novelty of caring for a pet can wear off with children when the responsibility becomes a tedious chore rather than fun and games.  Caring for the pet requires a regimented schedule which can interfere with other interests and extracurricular activities (Roger cannot join soccer practice or attend the ball game or shoot hoops or study with a friend because his dog relies on him at the same time) ... the needs of the dog must come ahead of games, sports, recreation and social interests.

Parents must seriously consider if they have enough time and interest and are ready to care for another needy life for the next 12-14 years.  Some parents give away their Lab explaining "we just wanted a dog, not another child."  Many dogs are discarded when their child goes off to college because "it was our child's dog - we cannot or do not want to care for the dog".

Labrador Retrievers are needy of *their humans* and demand specific regular time and attention - every day, rain or shine, when you feel good, when you're under the weather, and when you are too tired ... to even move.

Many Labs are given away because the child cannot live up to such relentless  responsibility and the parents did not have time or interest to take over.

• Where Do They Come From?

• Is A Lab For You?

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