I like how author Judith Summers, in her book, “My Life with George,” puts it: “If you did your research properly, you could sort out which facts were relevant and how many you could junk. You knew where you were going and how you were going to get there. In other words, you knew where you were.”Of course, as some of you may know all too well, not doing your homework is something you may regret later.
I’ve noticed in Turkey that opinions about having a house pet are changing. Well, at least among some people. I’d say still the majority of Turks are not comfortable around pets outdoors and even less, indoors.
I’d never been around dogs much growing up, except my brother’s Beagles, which were off-limits as they were hunting dogs, not pets. Like most people, I just thought a dog was a dog.
When I was offered a dog for free and learned she (Kila) was a Cocker Spaniel, I thought this was great! Don’t get me wrong, Kila is great. I thought, “I’ll need to walk her, give her fresh food and water, keep her warm and love her.” I did not really do my research on this particular breed, so I had no idea that she needs to be brushed x times a day, and that ear and eye infections and skin allergies are quite common for this particular breed. Oh! I nearly forgot to mention, they are high-maintenance creatures. George, in Judith Summers book is a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, which she describes as no ordinary dog. He sounds in many ways like mine.
Walking along Bagdat Caddesi or in Etiler you will see dogs whose owners have dressed their dogs in fleecy tops and designer collars. However, dogs like George and my Kila have just what they stand up in. They are down-to-earth dogs.
Any dog owner, while out walking their beloved creature, observes the many admirers along the path, but the moment the pavement is soiled or wet, it is as though the unthinkable has happened. You can see the disapproving glances.
Having a dog in your home may be even more disapproving. Be prepared for your Turkish friends to not visit as frequently if you have a dog.
Petrol attendants are great admirers. As long as the windows are rolled up, most attendants feel safe and will tease the dogs through the glass. As soon as you open the door to get out of your car or get in it, they quickly back away. You would have thought they had seen a snake as they scatter.
Around Christmas, Hanukkah and New Year’s, many people consider giving an animal as a gift, be it a dog, cat, guinea pig, hamster, rabbit, ferret or another pet. This is becoming more popular in Turkey as well.
In the vast majority of cases, this is a bad idea. Very frequently, the ordeal ends with the dog, cat, pocket pet or other animal at the humane society’s animal shelter within a few weeks.
Let me just share a few reasons why pets that are given as holiday gifts rarely remain in their new home.
Bonding time: Usually the holiday season is full of hustle and bustle. It is difficult to bond and care for a new cat, dog or other pet. Kittens and puppies require a strict schedule, lots of attention, training, care and love.
Choice of selection: Picking a pet for someone is almost like you are match-making. Selecting an animal to adopt is a very personal process that should be left to the new pet owner. The initial attraction is vital as the owner and animal will be sharing each other’s home and lives for hopefully many years to come.
Thinking you or someone else would love a dog? Research it and ask a few questions before you do something impetuous:
Do I have enough time for a puppy?
Do I have enough money to afford the vet bills?
Do I have sufficient time to care for my pet?
If the answers to these questions are negative it may be that it is a less-than-ideal situation that’s unfair to both animal and person.
Note: Charlotte McPherson is the author of “Culture Smart: Turkey, 2005.” Please keep your questions and observations coming: I want to ensure this column is a help to you, Today’s Zaman’s readers. Email: c.mcpherson@todayszaman.com
