I got some big news recently — that I was going to be responsible for another living, breathing thing.

Before the gossip mill gets to going, no, she’s not pregnant; I’m dog sitting.

Allison’s dog Peeps was dropped off at my house Sunday for what’s already turned out to be an interesting experience.

Peeps is small, black and of the mutt variety.

I’ve never had a dog or a cat or even a sibling to look after, so this process has taught me a lot about my wants and needs.

I want no pets, and I need no pets.

Suddenly, I can’t wake up 10 minutes before work, but I have to wake up 15 minutes early to make sure the dog has time for her morning relief.

Then there’s the whole feeding thing, not that anyone would notice if Peeps missed a meal.

She’s on a diet now, which means she only gets a cup and a half of food per day.

Tomorrow, I am to take her to her grooming appointment, which I have already been warned will end with tiny pink bows on her ears.

While Peeps has come with challenges, the experience has come with rewards as well.

The amount of knowledge I’ve gained in the past two days is priceless.

An article I read earlier tonight suggested having a pet was a good way to judge if you’re ready for children.

If there were any question before, rest assured, I am not. I’m not even ready for a dog.

The seven-year-old dog isn’t much of a runner, but we’ve taken some walks, and given the amazing weather as of late, they’ve been pleasant.

Peeps is surprisingly good at keeping me company, and she just so happens to like all of my favorite shows.

I suppose it’s also nice to be needed. Sure, it’s overwhelming knowing I have to keep something else upright, but so far, so good.

Who knows, maybe I could one day, in the future, possibly, potentially be ready for a dog, and who knows, maybe even children.