Tag: Dogs

Is it Better to Own a Cat or Dog?

By: Madison Grace Hansen

The common question, “is it better to own a cat or dog” circulates through social media at least once a year. Addressing this topic, I personally believe that it is better to own a dog rather than a cat because dogs are easier to clean up after, they can be trained easily, and they are better companions.

Dogs are easier to clean up after because most use the restroom outside and do not require cleaning because they are in the yard. Cats use the restroom in a litter box which is messy and constantly needs cleaning. Although litter boxes have been introduced to society, they are extremely expensive, therefore cat owners purchase the cheaper, messier litter boxes.  No cat owner actually enjoys sweeping up the small litter box remnants. 

Also, dogs are kinder pets than cats. Cats are not easily trained and they like to scratch and bite which is not good for the owner. Dogs can be trained quite easily if they are trained at a young age. When a dog is trained they can do a multitude of tricks like sitting, spinning, shaking, rolling over, and so much more. Cats do not do tricks, or at least no cat that I have ever seen. 

Finally, dogs certainly make for better companions. Although cats can be cute and cuddly, dogs do not get nearly as aggressive as cats and tend to enjoy getting scratches and rubs. Dogs will go on walks and runs with their owners while cats enjoy being lazy around the house. Dogs are also great pets to have if you feel lonely because they are wonderful companions. Once your dog trusts you, they will be your furry companion forever. 

All in all, dogs will forever be better pets than cats because they are easy to pick up after, they can be trained effortlessly, and they are amazing companions. Although cats have their own strengths as well, they will never reach the same level as dogs. 

Rating dogs

By: Alexis Dawkins

This week I am going to talk about the rest of my dogs in my life. To start, I am going to talk about my moms dogs. She has three dogs in her house and it is a little chaotic. First she has a yorkie, Allie. She is an older dog and she thinks she owns the house. She’s the smallest dog and she barks louder than the big dogs and she is a 9.5/10. They also have an American bulldog, Axel. This is also my dog. He loves me more than everyone even though I’m not there much but he gets more excited to see me than he does everyone else. He does not do well with strangers, especially men, but he is such a sweet dog and he is a 9.4/10. She also has Stella. She is some type of boykin spaniel, lab, irish setter mix. She came from someone on facebook for free and we still do not know what kind of dog she is. Stella is an eight year old baby who loves my mom. Sometimes Allie, the smallest dog in the house, will scare her by just barking at her and it is funny because Stella is so much bigger than her. She loves to dig and get dirty but hates the bath she has to get after to clean off. She is a 9.4/10 also. 

My aunt has one dog. She has always only had cats but she decided a few years ago that she wanted a golden retriever. Claire is the  most spoiled dog you will ever meet. My aunt has two cats also and they are spoiled too with their own stroller but the dog is the most spoiled. When my aunt has to work she takes Claire to doggy daycare. This is not just any dog daycare, they have a pool for the dogs and all types of things to play with. When the dog spends the night a person sleeps with them in a room so they are not alone. Claire is such a sweet dog and she is very well trained. She is a solid 9.7/10. 

These are most of the dogs in my family even though I want a maltipoo puppy but that is just a hope for one day. I love dogs more than people most days so if there is a dog somewhere you can bet money that that’s where I will be if you can not find me at a function.

Cats v Dogs Debate

By: Campbell Cromer

The never ending debate between dog lovers and cat lovers continues with which pet is better, dogs or cats. The answer is, it depends on personal preferences, lifestyle, and what you’re looking for in a pet.

Dogs are often known for their strong loyalty and affection towards their owners. They are known as “man’s best friend,” they thrive on companionship and form deep bonds with their owners. Dogs are very trainable and do great in tasks like fetching, guarding, or even providing their owners emotional support. Their energy makes them great for active people who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and running. Many dog breeds also can be a security to homes, due to their protective nature. However, dogs require a lot of time and effort to own. They need regular walks, a lot of training as a puppy, grooming, and they need to have social interaction to remain happy and healthy.

Cats on the other hand,are known for their independence and being low maintenance. They’re best for people with busy lives, as they’re more than happy being alone for hours at a time. Cats are clean animals, and are trained to use litter boxes and they groom themselves regularly. Their playful yet calm personalities makes them excellent indoor pets, especially for people who live in apartments. Cats can also be loving, often cuddling up on your lap or purring to show that they are happy. However, they can be more antisocial compared to dogs, and their independence may not appeal to everyone.

Deciding between a dog and a cat comes down to your personality and life. If you’re looking for an active, loyal pet who lives off of attention and adventure, a dog will be your best choice. If you prefer a pet that’s independent, low-maintenance, and enjoys quieter owners, a cat could be the way to go.

Both dogs and cats bring a lot of joy and unique features to a home. Whether you walk into your house and are greeted by a happy dog or a purr, one thing will always remain: pets will always make your  life better. It all comes down to which one fits your personal needs.

Boykin Spaniels

By: Cooper Scott

I remember when I was in Elementary school, I used to beg my parents for a puppy. In 4th grade, I got a Boykin Spaniel puppy for Christmas. I named her Millie; she is the most energetic and loyal dog I have ever met in my life. She sleeps with me every night, and always greets me at the door when I come home. My dad decided we were going to send her to school for obedience and to get trained to be a hunting dog. We got two years of hunting out of her until we decided we were going to get her bred to have puppies. On March 12th 2020, She had seven puppies. My brother, sister, and my mom all got a puppy. Miller, Mj, Phoebe, and Millie all run around and play everytime they can. Until one day Millie went to get groomed and jerked away from the groomer. Millie came home thay day and had no use of her back legs. We took her to the vet, and the vet said it was from the medicine she took. We waited a few days and noticed she progressively got worse. We took her to Cvets in Columbia and she had broken a vertebrae in her back and had to get surgery. She recovered very fast because she is so strong willed and energetic. She still chases deer and lives her normal life, but a little bit slower. Mj (Millie Jr.) is my brother’s dog, and he is the hunter. Mj was trained by the same trainer as Millie, 

Except he knows hand signals. Miller, my mom’s dog, is the biggest one out of all of the puppies. He is the clumsiest and the most loving dog out of all of them. Phoebe is my sister’s dog and she is the smallest out of all the puppies and is definitely the meanest one. My family loves all of the dogs and they love us too. I’m so glad I begged for a Boykin Spaniel puppy in Elementary school. 

Benefits of Animals for Families

By: Campbell Cromer

Pets and animals can have a very big and positive impact on families, offering emotional, physical, and social benefits. Whether it’s a dog, a cat, or pets  like a hamster or bird, animals often become very loved members of the family, enhancing the household environment in various ways.

One of the most significant effects animals have on families is the emotional bond they carry. Pets are often a source of love and companionship, which can reduce feelings of being lonely, anxious, or even stressed. For children, caring for an animal teaches responsibility, empathy, and caring skills. These lessons help kids develop sympathy and foster stronger interpersonal relationships as they grow. Pets also provide emotional support during hard times, offering comfort when family members are facing difficult or stressful situations.

In addition to emotional well-being, pets also promote physical health. For example, dogs require regular exercise, which encourages families to participate in outdoor activities such as walking or playing in the yard. This can improve your heart health, reduce obesity, and encourage overall physical fitness. Even smaller animals, such as cats or rabbits, can lower blood pressure and reduce stress through just petting them.

It’s not only the family that could use the physical activity. Animals like dogs need to do stuff like play in the yard or go on walks because it is important to their mental and physical health. Animals, especially dog’s tend to get depressed when they sit inside all day with no activity’s .

It is also said that animals can strengthen family bonds. Pets often become the center of family activities, whether it’s playing, walking, or simply spending time together. This shared responsibility can encourage communication and teamwork within the household. Pet are also natural icebreakers, helping families form connections with others in their community, such as neighbors, fellow dog walkers, or people at the vet.

Overall, animals bring happiness, comfort, and life to a household, enhancing the family dynamic and improving the  life for everyone involved.

Dogs in Need

By: Campbell Cromer

Every year, many dogs find themselves in shelters, abandoned, or living in unsafe conditions. These dogs are left in need of care, love, and a safe place to call home. While it’s easy to overlook the situation, we all have the ability to make a difference in these animals lives. Many of these dogs come from difficult backgrounds. Most are strays, many others are surrendered by families that can no longer care for them. They are often in need of medical care, rehab, or simply a love and a good family. Shelters and rescues work hard to care for these dogs, but they are often have too many dogs for the amount of money they have.

Adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue is one of the best ways to help. Homes that suit dogs are filled with love, attention, caring for the dog the way it needs to be cared for. These homes provide a safe home, proper health regulations, exercise, and routine veterinary checks. A truly good home also offers friends and treats dogs. By giving a dog a loving home, you not only save that animal from their prior situation, but also make space for another dog that need help. There are many strays in Sumter and all over the world and many of these dogs need to be adopted.

If adoption isn’t possible, fostering could be an another way to help dogs in your community. It gives dogs a temporary, loving home and helps them adjust to family life. Volunteering your time at a shelter, donating supplies, or raising awareness about the issue are other great ways to help dogs in need. Even little differences like saving a single dog can make a huge difference in the lives of these animals. Every dog deserves a chance at a happy, healthy, and well cared for life. Whether through adoption, fostering, or volunteering, you can help many dogs in need

What are the best dogs?

By: Olivia Cogswell

Golden retrievers and german shepherds are two of the best dog breeds for families and individuals. These types of dogs are good for first time pet owners, families with small children, and older people to take care of. They are one of the most intelligent dogs which make them quick learners. Golden Retrievers have a kind and friendly temperament which allows the owners to take them out in public to socialize. The dog breed makes good companions for walks, runs, swims, and even hunting activities. Golden retrievers make very loyal and protective companions.

This dog breed tends to be an expensive breed, and could come with many possible health issues such as: allergies, hip dysplasia, and skin issues. They also tend to not be very good guard dogs due to their loving and open personality, they will greet anyone. Along with the fact that they are a very high maintenance breed due to grooming, high exercise needs, and the need for socializing. If time and energy are given to a golden retriever, they will make great, loyal companions.

German shepherds are very attractive dogs that make great family pets. They are very protective of their owners and have great instincts. However due to their very protective nature they can be violent with strangers who they feel threatened by, making it hard for the owners to take them out in public. Although due to them being very easy to train, you can train them not to be so territorial and aggressive. This breed also tends to be healthier than others, which prevents expensive vet visits. While this breed can be good for all types of pet owners, they do require a more active lifestyle. If they do not get enough exercise they become bored, anxious, and even destructive. Considering this, these dog breeds make good companions for everyone.