we're still alive! but i have a sad problem...

[ladyjane]

Originally Posted by kjc

Just a thought.... from a 'rehomed' member... there are a few respected members of this forum who have had to 'rehome' children for whatever reasons... I just really feel this is not an appropriate comparison. JMHO.

My post has nothing to do with respected members of a dog forum. It has everything to do with just what I asked.

If it is necessary to rehome a pup, then is that necessity the same with children? In other words: I would like to know if people think there is a difference in the two living beings and our commitment to them. Or, do people feel that a commitment to a pet is different? I made no statements about "rehoming" ... I asked a question.

In my way of thinking there is a comparison. Just trying to understand why some think there is not.

[Rhetts_mama]

Sorry, but I still beg to differ here.

The OP is only rehoming ONE of her dogs due to her "lifestyle". And her flippant remark "it was going to be one or the other so it might as well be Pooter" speaks volumes. There is more to this story than she is saying.

There is no logic behind why she can take one but not both. Having either dog out on weeks long hunts doesn't make sense. I'll bet you dollars to donuts it won't be long before Tikka goes, too, because she's an inconvenience.

[kjc]

Originally Posted by Rhetts_mama

Sorry, but I still beg to differ here.

The OP is only rehoming ONE of her dogs due to her "lifestyle". And her flippant remark "it was going to be one or the other so it might as well be Pooter" speaks volumes. There is more to this story than she is saying.

There is no logic behind why she can take one but not both. Having either dog out on weeks long hunts doesn't make sense. I'll bet you dollars to donuts it won't be long before Tikka goes, too, because she's an inconvenience.

In one of her later posts, she stated she found an older couple to take both dogs... keeping them together.

[ladyjane]

I sincerely hope that both pups end up in loving and permanent homes. The thing that bothered me the most about all of this was the money aspect of it ... saying that the pup was worth more because he is trained.

I hope that the op PMd someone for advice about rehoming. I did see that assistance was offered by a couple of people. It did not seem to me that she was interested in that....and I hope it is not because of the money aspect.

[Wylie's Mom]

Originally Posted by ladyjane

I am simply curious as to how people feel about this "rehoming" as it is referred to of their pets.

Do they think it is different from other obligations made such as to children?

Nope - the obligations are same, in my opinion. If I choose to adopt a living creature, my commitment is for life - and actually, my pets are set up for after my life as well (if something happened).

Originally Posted by ladyjane

If it is necessary to rehome a pup, then is that necessity the same with children? In other words: I would like to know if people think there is a difference in the two living beings and our commitment to them. Or, do people feel that a commitment to a pet is different? I made no statements about "rehoming" ... I asked a question.

In my way of thinking there is a comparison. Just trying to understand why some think there is not.

For me, committing to a creature w/ fur is no different than committing to any other living creature. I can't imagine ever feeling differently, bc this is the way I've always felt.

[KazzyK810]

Originally Posted by ladyjane

If it is necessary to rehome a pup, then is that necessity the same with children? In other words: I would like to know if people think there is a difference in the two living beings and our commitment to them. Or, do people feel that a commitment to a pet is different? I made no statements about "rehoming" ... I asked a question.

In my way of thinking there is a comparison. Just trying to understand why some think there is not.

I personally, view the commitment to both in much the same way, as my commitment to both is for life. We adopted this furry little being into our family...that's a permanent position.

[Rhetts_mama]

Originally Posted by kjc

In one of her later posts, she stated she found an older couple to take both dogs... keeping them together.

In the space of a day she went from needing to post here for one and keeping the other to suddenly having a home for both. Pretty convenient. For the dog's sake, I hope it's true, but I don't hold out much hope.

[Ringo1]

When I had my son, a single Mom, with a full-time career ~ so many people advised me to 'give Casper away'. Now known as 'rehoming'.

But, he was my first baby; my faithful companion and loyal friend. I could not give him away just because he was suddenly an inconvenience and one more chore to take care of. And busy does not begin to describe my life at that time. Overwhelmed is more like it.

We found a way. I put the baby his his stroller every night and the three of us went for walks. My neighbor and babysitter agreed to come over and let Casper out every day for a small fee.

When we moved back to my hometown and could not find a place that would let me have a dog - again, everyone advised I would have to get rid of him for my son's sake.

But, with alittle effort, we did find a place for all of us. It was worth the effort.

I don't know the OP's situation. But I sure see a lot of 'rehoming' going on.

[kjc]

Originally Posted by ladyjane

My post has nothing to do with respected members of a dog forum. It has everything to do with just what I asked.

If it is necessary to rehome a pup, then is that necessity the same with children? In other words: I would like to know if people think there is a difference in the two living beings and our commitment to them. Or, do people feel that a commitment to a pet is different? I made no statements about "rehoming" ... I asked a question.

In my way of thinking there is a comparison. Just trying to understand why some think there is not.

Guess I'm just a bit sensitive to this type of comparision.... seeing so much of it (people deciding to leave their animals) lately with so many people losing their homes to all the traumatic weather events. Seeing the folks who did get their pets out of danger during Katrina, only to be turned away from rescue vehicles. Or people turning horses and other animals loose to fend for themselves bc they were unable to get them out of harm's way. Or the Hospital staff that left patients that could not be moved.... I realize these are different situations... but the decision is the same.

Personally, I would rehome children and pets if I could no longer provide for them. As caregiver to a step daughter who has quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy w/MR, I will eventually be making this decision for her also, as I am getting old. When that day comes, that I can no longer physically provide for her, see that her needs are met, that she is fed and diapered, bathed and such, she will go to an Assisted Living Facility.

What is your question? If one had to make a choice between rehoming a child or a pet, who would get rehomed first? That's hard to think about. I may still be able to care for my dogs when I can no longer care for my child. (Now I'm in tears.) Very hard decision, either way.

Plus one has to take into account the social stigma attached to those decisions.

And none of this has to do with the decision the OP has to make. I want to say I think she has put a lot of thought into this, but I don't know her. She is young, she made the decision to get dogs when her life was one way, now it seems an opportunity has come along that will be life-changing for her. Should she pass this up? Only she can answer these questions.

Dogs are fairly resiliant, so are kids, and they can and do adapt to new situations. Rather than be left in situations where they are really not wanted or where they are at risk, I think it's best they go to a new home.

The important thing here too, is that the OP will learn from this and not make a commitment to have any pets or children until she is settled, and can provide for them. And if it takes these pups going to a stable home for her to learn this, then so be it.

At least she isn't of the mindset that no one will be able to care for them the way she does, and have them PTS. (Which I have witnessed while working as a tech) A woman came in with her Sheltie, she had to move from her house into an apartment where no pets were allowed. I begged her to let me take her dog, there was no reason for him to have to die. But she said no.

[kjc]

Originally Posted by ladyjane

I sincerely hope that both pups end up in loving and permanent homes. The thing that bothered me the most about all of this was the money aspect of it ... saying that the pup was worth more because he is trained.

I hope that the op PMd someone for advice about rehoming. I did see that assistance was offered by a couple of people. It did not seem to me that she was interested in that....and I hope it is not because of the money aspect.

She said she would give both to a good home, free of charge.

[gidget529]

Originally Posted by kjc

Guess I'm just a bit sensitive to this type of comparision.... seeing so much of it (people deciding to leave their animals) lately with so many people losing their homes to all the traumatic weather events. Seeing the folks who did get their pets out of danger during Katrina, only to be turned away from rescue vehicles. Or people turning horses and other animals loose to fend for themselves bc they were unable to get them out of harm's way. Or the Hospital staff that left patients that could not be moved.... I realize these are different situations... but the decision is the same.

Personally, I would rehome children and pets if I could no longer provide for them. As caregiver to a step daughter who has quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy w/MR, I will eventually be making this decision for her also, as I am getting old. When that day comes, that I can no longer physically provide for her, see that her needs are met, that she is fed and diapered, bathed and such, she will go to an Assisted Living Facility.

What is your question? If one had to make a choice between rehoming a child or a pet, who would get rehomed first? That's hard to think about. I may still be able to care for my dogs when I can no longer care for my child. (Now I'm in tears.) Very hard decision, either way.

Plus one has to take into account the social stigma attached to those decisions.

And none of this has to do with the decision the OP has to make. I want to say I think she has put a lot of thought into this, but I don't know her. She is young, she made the decision to get dogs when her life was one way, now it seems an opportunity has come along that will be life-changing for her. Should she pass this up? Only she can answer these questions.

Dogs are fairly resiliant, so are kids, and they can and do adapt to new situations. Rather than be left in situations where they are really not wanted or where they are at risk, I think it's best they go to a new home.

The important thing here too, is that the OP will learn from this and not make a commitment to have any pets or children until she is settled, and can provide for them. And if it takes these pups going to a stable home for her to learn this, then so be it.

At least she isn't of the mindset that no one will be able to care for them the way she does, and have them PTS. (Which I have witnessed while working as a tech) A woman came in with her Sheltie, she had to move from her house into an apartment where no pets were allowed. I begged her to let me take her dog, there was no reason for him to have to die. But she said no.

I think we all see things through the eyes of what we have been through. I understand what you are saying about when someone is unable to care medically for a loved one anymore. I'm sure your vet background helps you care for her more than others could, but you worry there will come a time when you can no longer provide the kind of care she needs. God bless you for caring for her the way you do.

Unfortunately, others of us have seen ppl and dogs who are discarded w/o having the kind of medical issues you are dealing w or the economical/disaster issues the poor ppl in MO have faced. Some ppl are just incapable of the acts of selflessness you demonstrate on a daily basis for your loved one. I'm sure this is the furtherest thing from your mind, not being selfless towards those you love. I have seen sick children in hospitals alone bc parents/guardians are too selfish to give up their fun to be w a sick child, let alone take on the kind of care you provide.

I understand your sensitivity, though, and again, God bless you and I will pray he will give you the strength to bear this situation.

[AllDogBoots]

Originally Posted by ladyjane

I am simply curious as to how people feel about this "rehoming" as it is referred to of their pets.

Do they think it is different from other obligations made such as to children?

I have to say that my child cost me more to raise than any dog I have ever owned and certainly required more of my time. I am just trying to understand how people think about their pups.

I would rehome my life before I rehomed my pets. I would never consider getting rid of my pets unless I was in some kind of life threatening situation and had no choice. I can't answer for how it is different with children as I have no kids. In fact, I was planning on having children until I got Cooper 3 years ago. I'm even in the process now of planning to move out of state so I can provide better for my "family".

[ladyjane]

Below is something I found on an online forum that I think pretty much sums up my feelings about this thing people call "rehoming". There are the excuses/reasons and then the person's comment about the excuse/reason. Note that the excuses are NOT anything related to catastrophic events.



Best Excuses For Getting Rid Of Pet!

---------------------------------------------------------------------

1) Too busy with job. didn't work before you got puppy?
2) Dog got too big for house. you didn't know a great dane gets big?
3) Children are off to college. you don't think they'll be back?
4) Dog had puppies. ever hear of spay & neuter?
5) Dog chews shoes & furniture. flip the channel for a change and watch a dog training show or maybe read a training book.
6) Can't housebreak the puppy. see number 5
7) No time for the cat. cats need sooo much attention. maybe you should quit job
8) Too many pets. didn't you learn how to count in school?
9) Husband/wife is jealous of pet. get him/her a therapist.
10) Moving. where is this land of no pets allowed?
11) Having a baby. hope you don't have twins.
12) Needs too much care or attention. did you think it was a statue?

------------------------

There are others equally as lame. The items listed above have nothing to do with catastrophic events. I am not going to be drawn into a conversation about them as that is not what I am commenting on or asking about. My question is this: Why can't people realize a pet is a lifelong committment?

[AnimalLoverKris]

I wish YT had a like button like Facebook

[AllDogBoots]

Linda, I can't agree with you more and that list sums up a good amount of excuses. It's sad, really. I know a lot of people (family, not friends because I can't choose family!) who view dogs as animals and not family members. I'm not sure where that stems from but there are definitely 2 different types of pet owners. Those of us who love unconditionally and those of us who own animals.