Saturday, October 14, 2017     Hilda Campbell      Buying and Selling

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Buying a Home When You Have a Dog 

The first priority after I purchased my first home many years ago was to get a dog and I was thinking the other day just how much my dog makes my house a home.

My Dog Bandit 

Bandit, my loyal companion for the last seven years, is every bit a part of home as any human inhabitant. I have been without him the odd weekend as he has gone away for weekend camping trips, boating excursions, etc. with his human dad. Now understand, I’m an empty nester and have had to adjust to life without my son at home and I think I have done so pretty well. However, when Bandit’s away, I feel somewhat lost. I have no one to feed, to walk, to let out in the yard several times a day. No one to play catch with.  No one to curl up at my feet while I’m working on my laptop or reading a book. And most notably, silence when someone rings the doorbell or knocks on the door. The silence is deafening.

Can Having a Dog De-Value Your Home?

I have blogged in the past about things that de-value a home.  Having a pet can very easily do that. They can have an unpleasant odour that lingers in the house, they can damage floors, window sills, furniture, any number of things. Owning a pet will not add value to your home, but owning a pet is priceless.  In fact, many clients I have worked with base their decision on which home to buy on whether or not the backyard is suitable for their dog or whether it is in close proximity to a park or walking trail.

I first read the following poem several years ago and I have never forgotten it.  I especially like commandment number 7.

Ten Commandments for a Responsible Dog Owner:

1.  My life is likely to last 10 to 15 years. Any separation from you will be very painful.

2.  Give me time to understand what you want of me.

3.  Place your trust in me — it is crucial for my well-being.

4.  Don’t be angry with me for long, and don’t lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment. I       have only you.

5.  Talk to me. Even if I don’t understand your words, I understand your voice when it’s speaking to me.

6.  Be aware that however you treat me, I’ll never forget it.

7.  Before you hit me, remember that I have teeth that could easily crush the bones in your hand, but I choose not to bite you.

8.  Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I’m not getting       the right food, I’ve been out in the sun too long, or my heart may be getting old and weak.

9.  Take care of me when I get old. You, too, will grow old.

10. Go with me on difficult journeys. Never say “I can’t bear to watch it” or “Let it happen in my absence.” Everything is easier for        me if you are there. Remember, I love you.

I hope you enjoyed the poem and that it makes you want to give your dog a great big bear hug.  If you don’t have a dog you may want to consider getting one. They really do help make a house a home!

Contact Hilda Today

When you’re ready to buy or sell in the Burlington or Oakville area, or for general real estate advice, please contact me. I can help!


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