just heard something really interesting- no vet w a service dog

[mopinko]

8. for some dogs, it fulfills their breeding. that makes for a happy dog.

that's why i always say a boxer dog. they were created to be family dogs. the one i had when my kids were small was a wonder. a perfect example of a fine breed. she had the best life ever.
she lived to be 12, so she was there for the thick of the family years. i never expected the kids to care for her. she was my dog and my kid like the rest of them. it was part of being a parent to me, since i feel like kids really ought to have a dog.
i had dogs before i had kids, and now that they are grown.

my kids had small animals, but i dont think kids should be expected to take care of dogs. it's too big a job, imho.