I'm sorry Maria but I don't think you're thinking this all the way through. You are still in school right? The poor dog would be outside and alone all day long (doubt your Mom would be spending time talking and playing with a puppy). What happens when the puppy starts crying and howling when left in the basement at night I admire your noble and caring attitude but I'm more concerned with the poor puppy at this point, I really don't intend to sound mean