If you're planning on adopting a dog, you had better be prepared to take care of your companion like its a member of your family. Because, well, it is, and it needs just as much love and affection as your children. A dog isn't an object designed to make a room look good, and it's more than just an accessory to hang off your arm while you're out for a walk. A dog is a living, breathing thinking animal who has feelings like anyone else.