With more people than ever combining dog ownership and the outdoor lifestyle, it’s no surprise that co-owning a dog is growing to be an option more readily chosen today. At the same time, it also comes as no surprise that sharing a pet with another individual or family can be complicated if there is not a clear level of understanding obtained from the beginning. In this case, a legal agreement for shared dog ownership can be the single solution to clear up any uncertainties that may exist when two or more individuals decide to co-own a dog. When you also combine outdoor activities with the responsibilities of dog ownership, then knowing how to co-own a dog becomes even more essential – particularly when that means taking the dog with you for your next excursion into the great outdoors.
While the above scenario might sound like a dream come true for someone who loves dogs and outdoor fun, the reality is that there are some basic questions that often go unasked or unanswered. For one thing, all involved parties should be aware of what the other expects out of the relationship. Does one person expect the dog to be groomed and fed on an everyday basis while the other expects the dog to go to the vet every six months for checkups? While this might seem like a ridiculous example, it is not uncommon to see one person in a co-ownership type relationship continuously let the other person take care of all the chores.
Here’s where the outdoor enthusiast will run into problems with the unforeseeable changes in the weather. While a nice, sunny day might promise hours of fun on the boat or at the park, it could also be interspersed with a sudden rain/sleet/snow storm. What happens if you plan on taking the dog and something happens that keeps you from returning home on time? While you might think this is an unlikely scenario, the fact of the matter is that most people who take their pets out into the great outdoors fail to take precautionary measures by ensuring they have a plan in place for any situation. With that said, a legal contract that outlines expectations between co-owners can be a life-saver. Imagine if there’s an emergency and the dog needs to stay with one person. This type of situation can cost thousands of dollars in medical care and should not be taken lightly, which is why knowing who is responsible for the dog under which circumstances is essential.
There are many instances when you want to take your dog with you outdoors, which is why it is important to have the right tools for the job. In fact, appropriately choosing tools for your next adventure outdoors can make the difference between a successful trip and the misery. The same can be said for dog ownership. Knowing how to tackle the relationship as you have on the outdoor trails, can be beneficial. Anytime that you need to deal with shared ownership, an existing relationship, or any other type of situation involving the circumstances out of your control, it pays to remain prepared.
