Very true statements Jackee, thanks.
About how old is your lab Robert?
After working in the Dolphin Habitat for six years at the Mirage I met lots of co-workers & others who only do rescues & the pound. Everyone I ever talked to had nothing but good things to say about the animals they rescued. I had the chance to meet many of the dogs they had & they were some of the best animals I've ever seen.
I've had big dogs live long lives. I personally was with my German Sheperd buddy Chief when I had to put him down at 9 yrs old because of hip dysplasia. My buddy Jack ..another Sheperd from a shelter is 11..It's all about their gene pool..when it comes to life expectancy. Jack is the coolest dog I've ever had. Walk without a leash..sits at every corner before crossing.You just have to prepare the kids for the reality of life expectancy of these big dogs, and just spend every day loving them and accepting their unconditional love in return. When the day comes for them to leave you, there is some other loving creature who is waiting for you to come adopt him/her. It's the cycle of life, and unless your lifestyle becomes prohibitave of caring for an animal the best you can, the loss of a pet should not prevent you from getting another. Sure, you can avoid the heartache of the eventual loss, but you're also denying yourself years of unconditional love and acceptance which few humans are able to give.
There are so many out there just waiting for you and your family Vince. Go for it.
Well Larry,
Since you mentioned my pug Yoda, I was just looking for a reason to post his pictures.
Now I guess this thread has turned into "Show me Your Puppies"