A Big Responsibility

B : Mom, can I get a puppy? W: No, Billy. Taking care of a pet is a big responsibility. B : I promise to take good care of him, and you won’t have to remind me to do things for him. W: A dog isn’t a toy that you play with for awhile. He will be part of our life for the next 10 or 20 years. He is a living creature. B : I understand that, Mom. I promise to feed him every morning and take him for walks every afternoon. W: That’s part of the responsibility, but there’s more. He needs a license and has to go to the vet to get shots. A dog also needs companionship. You can’t go off with your friends and leave him locked up in the house all day. B : I understand, Mom. I have almost $100 in the bank so I can pay for his license and shots now. W: There are other expenses, too. Dog food is rather expensive. B : Well, I have my job mowing lawns and I’ll get a newspaper route. W: I think we should discuss this with your father when he gets home. This is a family decision. B : OK, Mom. Thanks!