Growing up with a dog is probably one of the best things my parents have ever done for me. My family adopted my dog when I was eight years old. I’m now 19 and in college, and I am still lucky enough for our dog to be a part of our family. Owning a dog has shaped me into the person I am today and has taught me valuable life lessons I would not have learned otherwise.

1. Owning a dog has taught me to help those in need.

I always love being able to tell people that my dog is a rescue animal. We adopted her from the shelter when she was just four months old, and she had been badly abused. For the first few months of her life, she was extremely scared of others and often hid under the beds or tables. Now, after being part of our loving family, she is always happy to meet new people and is full of life. We could have just adopted a dog from a breeder or pet store, but instead we turned around my dog’s life for the better!

2. Owning a dog has taught me the concept of unconditional love.

No matter what kind of day I am having, I know that my dog will always be there to greet me with cuddles and kisses. Friends and boyfriends come and go, but my dog will always be there. I mean, how you could ever get mad at her with that face!

3. Owning a dog has taught me responsibility.

It really is true when people say that a dog is like a family member. You need to make sure they eat, are let outside, and get enough exercise. Although I will admit my parents took care of most of these things for a while, now that I am older and my parents aren’t home as much, I take a lot more responsibility for my dog. It’s a great way to practice for when you have a family of your own!

4. Owning a dog forces me to exercise and socialize.

Not only does owning a dog motivate me to get outside and go for walks more often, it helps be become more social. Whenever I take my dog to the park, I am always meeting new people and their dogs. Plus, having a dog never fails as a conversation starter!

5. Owning a dog just fills me with a happiness I never would have had otherwise.

No matter how mad I get at my dog for chewing up my shoes, having an accident in the house, or having a barking fit, I will always love her. She is my baby, my playmate, my exercise buddy, my guard dog, and my best friend all in one. Having a dog is definitely something that I feel everyone needs to experience. I’m so lucky to be blessed with her!