Should I get Ruger a pet?

[Britster]

I think it depends on the dog. Jackson does not really like my dads cats. Over their house, the 3 dogs stay downstairs and the 2 cats stay upstairs (with a gate). If they hear a cat downstairs or a 'meow' all hell breaks loose and all the dogs go flying chasing and barking at the cats. It's over within 10 seconds but still annoying. All the dogs have been socialized to the cats and one on one they actually like them a lot more.... Jackson will allow the cats to groom him, and they sniff each other nicely when it's just the two of them, but once all dogs are involved, all bets are off. I don't think I could ever enjoy a peaceful household with Jackson and a cat and have no desire to ever try.

[chachi]

Oh I see I didnt realize a shock collar was being used

[SophieKatesMom]

Honestly, my first thought when I saw your post was you should get a kitten or a cat for YOU and not your Yorkie.

We have a cat, Avery who has lived in the house since I brought Sophie Kate home but he was here first and it was her job to adjust to him. They get along well but there are times when Sophie Kate tries to boss him around, Avery being the big sweetheart he is takes it until I step in.

My thoughts are if you are prepared to teach both your dog and your cat how to co-exist it might be a good idea. If your thinking you will get a kitten/cat as a "pet" for your Yorkie probably not a good idea.

I should add that adopting a cat has expenses also, they need shots, flea treatment, spay/neuter and where I live you have to license them.

I know shelters are over fun with Kittens and Cats, but it is best to get one only if you are prepared to have another family member.

[Ashley V]

I absolutely love watching my dogs play with my cousin's cats when we lived together. They all got along great although when my cousin brought home Trixie as a tiny kitten, Smokey was just too much for her to handle and scared the crap out of her. After awhile she just took his licking (literally). He wouldn't quit licking her in the face. I honestly think he was trying to take care of her because she was pretty sick for awhile with a respiratory illness. Ask the shelter if you can bring Ruger to visit some kittens to see how they react together before you bring him/her home. I think it's great you are willing to adopt a kitten/cat. This is the time of year when they are all overrun by them.