[Freppan]

Originally Posted by Corgis4me

While I think you are trying to show maturity by making a list of necessities for a new puppy,

It's not really about that, it's more so that I actually KNOW what I need to make.

I personally don't know any 14 year old that can financially take care of all expenses for a dog.

Well, I'm using money that I have saved and that I am going to make babysitting until I am 15. When I am 15, I can get a real job. I don't think it will be too much of a problem in case there is a medical emergency. That's why I plan to save every last cent that I make. If something horrible and unexpected happens (let's hope not) I admit that I may need some help from family.

I have teenagers so I know how it is with them wanting something right away. And though they walk the dog on occasion and feed him, he is not the focus of their lives with them being in high school, as other normal teen stuff takes up their time.

What do you mean by "other normal teen stuff"? I rarely go to friends' houses, I'm pretty much sitting around, bored as hell around here. Of course, I have homework sometimes, but nothing that takes up much time. I have plenty of time to walk and play.

Since it is just you and your mom. your mom needs to be 100% in agreement with getting this new puppy is right for the two of you,

Certainly. We have been discussing it, and she's going to see how things go with my saved money and how well I do when watching Imus.

not just 95% sure; since the majority of the expenses will fall on her shoulders, and probably some of the care, and I don't think begging her or trying to guilt trip her into getting this dog is a good idea.

I wouldn't say the majority. I get enough money each month from babysitting to buy dog food etc. The only thing that she would ever really need to help with is emergencies. Which can be expensive, yes.

I am wondering what are your plans are 4 years from now? Do you plan on leaving home for college or do you plan to live at home and attend school or will you be moving out to work full time? If you will be going away to college, has your mom agreed to taking care of this dog full time at that point? Moving out will require housing that will accept dogs; they are available, but not always easy to find.

I understand this and have thought about it quite a bit. Since I will be working next year (say... 8 months from now?) I will I be saving every penny. Over the course of 4 years, that should be quite a bit, considering we have minimum wage and all that. If I go to a near by college, both the dog and I will stay here. If not (which is likely), I will rent an apartment that allows pets. I realize that this could be somewhat difficult to find, but not impossible. I will have to start looking long before the time actually comes.

And I agree with others have said in searching out a good breeder who does the necessary health tests, which will give you better odds of having a healthier dog in the long run.

I plan to talk to the breeder I am currently focused on some more soon. Health testing is of my main concerns right now.