What do I say without offending.....

[tjdmom]

Originally Posted by Dame

What if you spun it in another direction? Making it so that its you and not them? Focusing on how you worry that taking care of Toby takes away from her reflexology work, and you'd feel better if he just stayed home for a while because you feel like you're taking advantage of them? You could also interject that since you're looking to get another puppy who'd have to stay at home for a while, it would be nice if Toby got used to being in the house alone. This way when you do get your puppy Toby is already comfortable and he won't have anxiety while you're gone with a new puppy in the house... and that you'd like it if the puppy "wasn't alone" as well.

I think this is a great suggestion!

[MorkieMomii]

Originally Posted by shell820810

To be honest, I would prefer Toby stayed at home.

But they are quite persistant and will do their own thing. I know they wouldnt keep him in a pen etc. even if I asked.

But I just dont know how to say that he should stay at home without implying that they arent fit to look after him. They are just a lot more relaxed with their dogs than I am with Toby. Its a really awkward situation.

I am going to get another pup mid November, and I will keep it at home for a while cos it will be too small etc, so hopefully I can stop it then, but I am not comfortable waiting til then.

I think it would just look to them like I am overeacting - me who has had Toby for 4 months, or them who have had dogs for 25 - 30 years - I wonder who knows how to look after dogs better?

Do you have to drive far to take him there?...I would just say short and simple, my schedule has changed and it is out of my way or not convenient to drop him off, Mom will visit him and my neighbor is going to babysit one day a week as well....(little white lie there I know but you have to do what you have to do) Just make something up, you can totally say, "oh this works better for us now thank you so much for all your help, here is a fruit basket"(or whatever). Go with your gut...always

[manolos mom]

Originally Posted by LuvMySissy

I would be very uncomfortable with this arrangement. I'd rather he be alone in a safe environment and left out at lunchtime. I don't know how your wildlife is in Ireland, but here in the states, even in very populated areas, we have frequent hawks that can carry our babies away. I would be afraid for not only him running into the road, but someone taking him - wildlife included!

I agree with this. I'm sure you have Hawks or large birds. Tell them he needs to be on a leash, or I would leave him home.