Seeing small, pampered dogs carried around in a handbag used to be something of a novelty. But thanks to celebrities such as Paris Hilton, these posh pets are a growing trend. Of course, no dog should be seen as an accessory and animal charities* have seen an increase in the number of small dogs, such as Chihuahuas, Pomeranians and Shih-tzus handed in by pet owners.
Any responsible pet owner knows that a good pet insurance policy is essential to soften the blow of vet’s bills, but it’s not just the fact that people can’t afford to keep their dogs that’s caused the boom in abandoned little ones.
“Handbag dogs” can be difficult to look after as they’re so used to being carried around they’re unsure how to behave on a lead. Some have trouble walking as they don’t get any exercise, and running is an alien concept to them.
Missing out on bouts of regular exercise that are so essential to keep a dog healthy and happy is not their only problem. Many become confused with other dogs, and aren’t sure how to behave around them.
Sitting around in a bag all day may look like the perfect pampered life, but it’s not right for dogs. Although these breeds are small, they still need playtime and exercise like larger breeds. After a while, if they’re deprived of regular walks and stimulation they can react by trying to destroy their surroundings, which owners find hard to cope with.
If you adopt a dog who’s more used to the handbag lifestyle than being out and about on a lead, you can help them to live a more dog-like life, but you do need to take things slowly. At first, they may even be scared of everyday things such as traffic and parks, so they need to be introduced gradually. It’s unlikely that they’ll be used to walking along pavements or indeed walking for long periods of time, so it’s best to build up their fitness gradually. Some shorter-haired breeds can be prone to breathing problems, and may find it even harder when the weather’s hot.
These pets may not have even seen another dog, let alone mixed with them in the park, so it’s worth keeping a close eye on them until they get the hang of socialising.
If you do want to pamper your pet, looking after them well is the best way to do it. And if they do become sick or get injured, a good pet insurance policy will be there to help get them on the road to recovery.
Source: http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/00792/460-mini-dogs_792708c.jpg
Company Profile:
John Lewis Insurance offers a range of insurance services selected by the John Lewis Partnership. These include car, home, life, travel, wedding, event and pet insurance products.
For more information about John Lewis Pet Insurance please visit the website here – http://www.johnlewis-insurance.com/.
John Lewis Insurance is a trading name of John Lewis plc. John Lewis plc is an appointed representative of AXA Insurance UK plc which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.
Terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions and eligibility criteria apply. A full copy of the policy wording and the insurance complaints procedure are available on request.
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As a pet parent, I know the expenses that can be associated with unexpected vet trips – having pet insurance is an easy way to budget for those times.
It’s sad that people adopt lil’ dogs as a trendy fashion accessory. Dogs, regardless of size, require a degree of responsibility. My lil’ chihuahua is just as active as the beagles who are more than twice her size. Keeping them active helps keep them healthy!
Great article. Thanks for the information. I was wondering about Pet insurance!!
Thanks for the insurance info…pinned your post
Great post! Pet insurance is a very good idea.
Awww that makes me sad that they aren’t getting the lives they need. Little dogs are so cute. I know my mom’s little chihuahua loves running around and taking walks. I would never try to keep her in a purse all day.
I did not realize all the implications there are of these “handbag” dogs. That was a real eye opener. And I know about the vet bills, they can be huge!! I also did not ever think of buying insurance.. I am just learning a lot today from you 🙂
Thank you so much for all of the wonderful information. My Dog may not be a run way dog but we love him just as much. He is fun, entertaining and loving. Boots can play outside all day or just laze but when ever our kids are around he is ready to play with them no matter what:)
Pet insurance- thank you for telling me about this. I will definitely tell my sister. I referred her to your blog because you have the best pet posts!
Awesome! Thank you so much.