[Vent] I *almost* made a huge mistake today (getting a dog before I was ready). I'm glad I didn't.

So, I wanted to make this post just because I felt like this story was an important to tell. Today I almost made the gigantic mistake of obtaining a basset hound from a breeder when I wasn't ready. Also, I hope the tag is right... I honestly don't know if this is a vent or discussion. But it's emotional.Since last I posted here (about which dog breeds I would want) I've done a lot of research and I've talked to a multiple breeders. I actually ended up a little bit outside my comfort zone and explored different breeds that could be an option (even those that shed, because it occurred to me that I keep my house immaculate and vacuum 2-3 times a week).So, I found a Boykin Spaniel breeder and a Basset Hound breeder near my area and decided to call them up and see if I could schedule a time to come visit the facilities and meet and talk with them. The boykin breeder is a bit further out, so I decided to visit the basset breeder first.When I got there I learned (after talking with them, meeting the puppy's parents, etc) that they had a couple of puppies still available since their waiting list wasn't full and that, if I was ready now since I am on summer break, that they could match a puppy up with me. Well, I almost took it. I had the puppy in my hands and all the papers and items (vet and health check, microchip if I want it) that I would need with it. I was so close to getting this puppy, but I went off to lunch and I thought about it long and hard and had to make the decision not to get it. It was so hard, but it was best for everyone involved that I didn't take a puppy I wasn't prepared for. It's June, and I'd like a puppy in November or December during a different extended break.So, I guess what I wanted to say is this: It's so hard to make an objective choice when you have something as emotional as dog ownership in front of you. Don't make a mistake and get a puppy or dog when you aren't ready just because they are tugging on your heart strings.P.S. I cried all the way home. I really connected with that basset, and I'm like 95% sure I want one now. I've known a couple throughout my life and they were really awesome dogs. I'm still going to go check out the boykins out of respect though. :) via /r/dogs http://ift.tt/2rBHgfA