by Jules Roberts

Created on: November 12, 2008

It really is true that fame can bring misery. For the dogs who are made popular by Hollywood this may certainly be the case. There are already enough dogs abandoned by owners who gave half a thought to getting them. What chance do they stand of getting a good home when they are purchased as little more than accessories?

Dogs are a massive responsibility that require a lot of commitment. They are living breathing sentient beings. All breeds of dog require some thought and they all have very basic needs. Some breeds of dog may have special requirements. Pedigree dogs may have higher chances of genetic defects (such as dalmatians can be deaf, German shepherds can have hip problems). If a particular breed is made popular it is more likely they will be over-bred to meet demand and this will not produce healthy dogs.

Getting a dog is not like buying a new pair of shoes. You can chuck a pair of shoes in a cupboard and forget about them when you are bored. Shoes are also easier to give away if you don't want them anymore. Dogs are more likely to develop behavioural problems if they are frequently ignored. They may pee on your carpet if you forget to walk them. Not many people will want a fully grown dog with behavioural problems.

I have no issue with people who get the dog for all the right reasons. Who have thought about how caring for a dog will fit into their routine. Who have done their research and still are not put off. Who will love and care for the dog even when it is not "fashionable" anymore. No issue with that whatsoever. But sadly, some people will get the dog on a whim.

Once a dog has become "fashionable" it is sadly seen by some as the next "must have" item to buy. As if it were a pair of shoes or new shade of eyeshadow. The dog is then worn rather than walked. But what happens to them when they are not included in next seasons wardrobe? They just seem to disappear.

I remember the "If Paris Hilton can have a small dog carried around in a bag then I want one too" phase hit London. Weeny little dogs would pop their weeny little heads out of bags all over the place. Very trendy. I would even see people on the underground with these "dog-in-a-bag" live accessories. Strangely, I don't see them around so much now. I wonder why? Did they pee on the carpet, perhaps? Get too boring? Are they SO last season? Who knows...

Perhaps there's a secret dumping ground where Paris Hilton wannabes can leave these poor creatures?

Either way, as far as I am concerned it is just not ethical to buy a dog because it is "in fashion". If its fashion you're after, please stick to buying accessories that do not have a pulse and need a huge amount of care that you may become bored of giving. Do a dog a favour and buy a nice new pair of shoes instead!

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