questions about dogs

Question
QUESTION: I was thinking of fostering a dog from a organizations, but my mom says no...
So, a few questions are
1. Will it destroy my furniture and bark all the time?
2. will it shed like crazy?

ANSWER: Hi, Susie,

That's very compassionate of you to want to help, but there is no way of knowing beforehand if the dog will be a big barker.  

As far as the furniture, it would be a good idea to keep any rescue dog in a crate or kennel while it's not being supervised.

As far as the shedding, that would depend on the breed of the dog.

If your mom isn't in favor of you doing this, maybe you could help in other ways, like being a dog walker, or helping to bathe the dogs or clean out the kennels.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I mean, i already work as a volunteerer for dogs.. but I actually really want one now so...
Also, dogs don't smell that bad.. right?

Answer
"Also, dogs don't smell that bad.. right?"



It depends on whether they get outside and roll around in stuff and whether they get regular baths.

Of course, if they get outside in the rain, then they have that "wet dog" smell that is different from a freshly bathed smell.

On the whole, most dogs do not have a natural offensive smell.  They only start to smell "bad" when they need a bath (a lot like people!!!).

Most dogs that spend the majority of their time indoors and go out to "do their business" can go several months at a time without a bath and still not have much "doggy" odor.

There are also doggie colognes and wipes that you can use to freshen them up between baths.

It sounds like your mom is really not in favor of this.  If you DO end up winning the case, you will have to be very responsible and diligent in keeping the dog out of trouble or your mom will not be happy.

Good luck!