When did you get Scout and why was it the right time for you?
We got Scout in December 2023. My fiancé Dave has always wanted a dog and we had just moved into our own place together so the time felt right!
What is he like personality wise – all dogs are different!
Read more:Ireland AM's Judy Gilroy on her adorable dog Gigi and how she's the fourth member of her family
Read more:Author Emer McLysaght opens up about life with her stunning rescue cat Pip
He’s super playful and extremely cute. He is definitely a high energy dog so he needs to be walked at least twice a day – which is great for me too because I’m able to get my steps in! Once he’s been walked, he tends to just sleep a lot, which is nice for us.
He’s quite a big dog, is that what you wanted or did you have other breeds in mind when you first started thinking of getting a dog?
For us it was always a golden retriever. They have such good temperaments and we wanted an active dog too as we are always on the go, so it’s nice to be able to bring him along with us.
Have you always been a dog lover? What is it about them that you love?
I never had pets growing up as my mam isn’t an animal person so this is all very new to me, but I’ve always found dogs really cute. Dave loves dogs so I knew we would get one one day. They are such good companions to have. I never really understood the connection between dogs and their owners until now. I’m completely obsessed.
Was it a challenge to get used to being a pet owner?
It has definitely been a learning experience, for sure. Your life really does change as you have a little being to take care of. Even date nights are different now as we can’t leave him on his own for too long. I wouldn’t change it though, we love him so much!
People say a dog makes a house a home, do you think that?
Definitely! They add such character to the home. They are also such innocent little creatures you can’t help but just fall in love with them. They really depend on us humans so much, it’s so sweet to know you have someone that relies on you.
What are some of the biggest challenges involved in being a pet owner? Are there any downsides for you?
I definitely think being busy and having to work or travel is the toughest part. We are lucky that we have plenty of people who adore Scout and are able to look after him for us if needed. I wouldn’t say there are downsides, however, you just need to plan things a little bit more in advance. If we know we have something coming up, we can pre plan to get the dog minder ready. The last-minute things can be a little bit more tricky but we always seem to make it work.
What advice would you have for anyone considering getting a dog?
I think you need to make sure having a dog works with your lifestyle. It’s extremely tough work being a dog owner but it’s so worth it when they are so cute.
I’m sure he is a handful by himself, but would you ever consider getting him another dog for company?
Oh, I’m not sure right now! He’s still in his puppy phase but I do think it would be nice for him to have a little friend.
With Christmas coming up, will any fun gifts for Scout be on the cards?
We will definitely spoil him with some new toys for sure. He’s very easy to please. Once he can chew on it or eat it he will be so happy.
English (US) ·