I will admit that I hadn't really wanted one, and am sometimes not comfortable around dogs. I grew up with cats, and the idea of animals sniffing me and trying to lick me just doesn't sit well. But I have always felt a little safer around smaller dogs, which is why I found it ironic that some of the small breeds are the most tempermental.

While on this assignment, we paid a visit to the Metro Animal Services. We went to show examples of the types of dogs mentioned in the study. I was surprised when I saw dogs of every size there, and I wasn't scared of any of them (maybe it's because they were in cages?). But what struck me the most was how they all seemed loveable, regardless of breed.

I encourage whoever is considering getting a dog to check out the ones for adoption. There are so many breeds to choose from, and I actually felt bad leaving there not having taken one with me. Who would have thought that a story about agressive dogs would turn me into someone who wants a dog (or at the very least, has more compassion for them)? Maybe when I settle down after I finish school (and the hectic lifestyle that goes with it) I will consider getting a dog. Even though the big dogs seem sweet, I still think I'd stick with a smaller one.

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