Dogs can be a wonderful addition to any family! Between the many different breeds and mixes there are, there is surely a brilliant companion out there for you. According to Julien Martinez, a spokesman for the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, "Staten Island has the highest estimated percentage of the population owning one or more dogs - 32 percent." So, in New York City's least populate borough, there are actually more dogs. Officials believe this could be due to the type of housing on Staten Island, which provides more yard space for pets.

While this abundance of dogs can be a positive thing, there are also downsides to having a dog such as the possibility of the dog becoming violent as well as the insurance aspect of being a pet owner. In a New York Post article written by Natalie O'Neill, she explains that roughly 62 of every 100,000 residents on the island in 2014 have been bitten. In all, Staten Island has had a total of 6,373 emergency room visits for dog bites, and 293 of those demanded hospitalization, based on most recent information from 2014. Now, this doesn't mean that every dog will bite its owner or be a threat, however it is always a possibility. 

Another downside to owning a dog, depending on the breed, is insuring them. Some insurance companies will either not insure your dog if it is a "dangerous breed", or they will charge you higher rates. Some of the most common breeds that are blacklisted from insurance companies include:

  • Pit Bull Terriers
  • Staffordshire Terriers
  • Rottweilers
  • German Shepherds
  • Presa Canarios
  • Chow Chows
  • Doberman Pinschers
  • Akitas
  • Wolf-hybrids
  • Mastiffs
  • Cane Corsos
  • Great Danes
  • Alaskan Malamutes
  • Siberian Huskies

While your dog might be on this list and be an angel, there are always a few exceptions which can cause some problems. Although these downsides are definitely something to review, owning a dog is a responsibility many people also find rewarding. With proper training, vaccinations, and an outdoor area where they can play, having a dog can be a lot of fun. Some of the reason why being:

  • They are like people except they can't talk and they love you unconditionally.
  • According to the American Heart Association, owning a dog can protect you from heart disease.
  • They can motivate you to get active by demading to be walked.
  • If you have kids, owning a dog can help kids learn responsibility and can prevent them from developing allergies.
  • Dogs who are trained properly can be great service companions for those with disabilities.
  • They can be great for protecting your house and family.
  • Studies have shown that those who take their dog to work have lower stress levels during the day.

If you live on Staten Island and have or want to get a dog these are certainly some things you should consider. Finding a home that will be perfect for you and your pets is also something to think about. At Tom Crimmins Realty, our astounding agents can help you find whatever you need! Whether you are looking for a home with a large backyard, or a home in a close proximity to a dog park, we do our best to meet your needs. You can contact us at 718-370-3200, or visit our website tomcrimminsrealty.com.

 

Posted by Tom Crimmins Realty on

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