What is the best way to find a new home for a dog?

[Lisa loves Pooh]

They certainly never storm off to their room screaming "I hate you!".

Somebody did ask me once if raising a horse is more or less expensive than a kid. I'll have to crunch some numbers and get back to you. If only my horses could get scholarships!

The newborn "prepaid" at "this years prices" for 4 years of university tuition in virginia exceeded $45,000....or $404/month until they are 18.

That's before diapers, food, clothing and anything remotely involved in raising the kid for the next 18 years before college.

 

[Gabes_mommy]

Ok this thread has gone all kinds of crazy directions.

I just wanted to comment on the nursing home issue. My grandmother lived with my parents and then one day she took a bad fall and cracked her head open. Long story short she had to move into a residential rehab center to get full-time physical therapy. Well she loved it there! When it came time to leave and go home she asked if she could stay and they found her a bed in the regular unit.

Sadly we lost her last year but she had 2 of the happiest years of her late life in the home. She absolutely loved it there. She loved the food and all the attention from the wonderful staff and she had friends there and things to do. I will be forever grateful to the staff there for making her so happy.

So my point is a retirement home is not always a bad thing.

 

[monkeybug]

You do what you gotta do. Your kids are priority number one right? My dogs (and other pets) are my priority number one. I don't have kids and never will. I am willing to do what it takes to keep my pets a priority. OP is not. She shouldn't have pets, IMO.

Don't anyone be fooled that the OP is doing what's best for the dog. She is doing what's best for her and her family. This poor dog is about to be uprooted from everything it knows. The family it loves. The home it has known for it's entire life, and sent to live with strangers (at best) or sent to the pound or put down at worst.

I fail to find any noble intent there, for the dog's well being.

but I get it...the kids come first. Just please don't ever own a pet again.

PS...it only took 4 pages for the thread to go offtrack. Do they even HAVE doggie retirement homes??

They probably don't have doggy retirement homes (might be a good business if the economy ever turns around. Especially in CA where they have doggy spas, bakeries, daycares, summer camps...goodness knows what else)
There are people who look specifically for older dogs though, and are happy to take them in. I'm sure it is much more difficult to find, but there are people who don't want the hassle of a puppy, or don't have the energy to keep up with a younger dog.
There are also people who just really love dogs and purposely choose older dogs because they know they are less likely to find homes.
If we were ever to adopt another dog, we would adopt a dog over the age of 5 for that very reason.

 

[Jennasis]

The newborn "prepaid" at "this years prices" for 4 years of university tuition in virginia exceeded $45,000....or $404/month until they are 18.

That's before diapers, food, clothing and anything remotely involved in raising the kid for the next 18 years before college.

GULP! you win...

Though, horses will live well into their late 20's/ear;y 30's and you still gotta pay for them. Hmmm...I may know a few humans who have their parents footing the bill at that age too!

SHould mention too that there ARE horse retirement facilities. I run one!

 

[Christine]

I think part of the "judgmental" issues arising on this thread come from the fact that the dog in question here has exhibited some "snippy" behavior. Not all out aggression. Another person upthread pretty well stated that this is not an aggressive dog. It has started demonstrating some undesireable behaviors recently--behaviors that seem easy enough to work out with the proper people (and yes time and MONEY, I'm sure).

So, because a dog growls and gets snarly because you tell it to get off the couch, or it has been sassy lately because, most likely, the owners have not been effectively working with their pet, the pet (at 9 years old) has to be re-homed, sheltered, or worse, euthanized. That's where I think the volatility is coming from.

I don't think anyone would argue to o much that if the dog was truly showing aggression in it's overall demeanor, there would be a problem. But I think a recent development of what is irritable behavior is much to early to throw it out.

 

[connorlevismom]

Found a link about Springers and aggression
http://www.vetinfo.com/daggressp.html

Thank you for the link. I found it very interesting that Springers are known for this type of behavior.

Sometimes I wonder if the people who are so quick to judge about how people in the OP's situation handle things actually have kids themselves. I have quite a few doggy-lover friends and I can tell you that they think that everything should be done for the sake of the dog. But none of them have kids. They just don't understand that once you have children they are far more important than even the best dog. That's just how it is. They also don't understand that doggy daycare and extra training and special medications for dogs just may not be in the budget (especially when you're already paying $1000-$2000 per MONTH for child care). I'm not talking about normal expected doggy costs like annual vet bills, food, heartworm pills etc. If I couldn't afford those I wouldn't get a dog... but $200/hour for dog training or thousands in vet bills/medication just isn't going to happen.

I love my dogs, and I do whatever is within my means to make them comfortable and happy, but you can bet your seat that I wouldn't hesitate for a second to remove an aggressive dog from my home if she was even the remotest threat to my children. Removing the dog from the scene to another family that is more appropriate to the dog (and it's potential costs) is NOT CRUEL. In fact, it's probably the kindest thing you can do for a troubled dog.

So get off your high horses and maybe have a little respect for the OP who is trying to do the best thing in a difficult situation. It can't be easy for her to give up a family member.

Thank you. Your right, I cannot afford hundreds and thousands of dollars for my dog right now. I have one child in all day kindergarten (at 400 a month) and my baby is in daycare (at 1200 per month). Factor that with saving for retirement, college for 2 kids, health and dnetal insurance, food, house, car, activites for the school ager...the list goes on and on. It does not leave a lot of money for hundreds of dollars for the vet. I do make sure he has all his shots and I do take him in if something is wrong with him. I did get a full blood workup on him (costing a lot) and nothing came back. I am not exactly sure what everyone wants me to do in that situation. Spends hundreds more? And what is those tests come up that there is nothing wrong. At some point, you have to stop spending because you can no longer afford it.

Kristine

 

[Lisa loves Pooh]

GULP! you win...

Though, horses will live well into their late 20's/ear;y 30's and you still gotta pay for them. Hmmm...I may know a few humans who have their parents footing the bill at that age too!

SHould mention too that there ARE horse retirement facilities. I run one!

LOL!

We don't live in Virginia yet. But we were balking at what my son's Florida pre-paid was costing us. DH considered closing it and checking into VA and I said, we'll let's check first. We decided to be quiet when we saw that VA was almost twice as much.

 

[jrmasm]

I think part of the "judgmental" issues arising on this thread come from the fact that the dog in question here has exhibited some "snippy" behavior. Not all out aggression. Another person upthread pretty well stated that this is not an aggressive dog. It has started demonstrating some undesireable behaviors recently--behaviors that seem easy enough to work out with the proper people (and yes time and MONEY, I'm sure).

So, because a dog growls and gets snarly because you tell it to get off the couch, or it has been sassy lately because, most likely, the owners have not been effectively working with their pet, the pet (at 9 years old) has to be re-homed, sheltered, or worse, euthanized. That's where I think the volatility is coming from.

I don't think anyone would argue to o much that if the dog was truly showing aggression in it's overall demeanor, there would be a problem. But I think a recent development of what is irritable behavior is much to early to throw it out.

And a good trainer can tell the difference. If the behavior is because the dog is getting a little big for her britches it can be corrected very easily if you know what to do.

I have a small dog that came to us a little growly about laps and chairs. She learned this would not be tolerated. She'd rather not growl and stay off the floor.

What's bothering me is that the OP seems to have quit on her dog. Sadly, that's very common.

 

[jrmasm]

Thank you for the link. I found it very interesting that Springers are known for this type of behavior.



Thank you. Your right, I cannot afford hundreds and thousands of dollars for my dog right now. I have one child in all day kindergarten (at 400 a month) and my baby is in daycare (at 1200 per month). Factor that with saving for retirement, college for 2 kids, health and dnetal insurance, food, house, car, activites for the school ager...the list goes on and on. It does not leave a lot of money for hundreds of dollars for the vet. I do make sure he has all his shots and I do take him in if something is wrong with him. I did get a full blood workup on him (costing a lot) and nothing came back. I am not exactly sure what everyone wants me to do in that situation. Spends hundreds more? And what is those tests come up that there is nothing wrong. At some point, you have to stop spending because you can no longer afford it.

Kristine

OP, just out of curiousity, how much exercise is your dog getting daily?

 

[punkin]

Thank you for the link. I found it very interesting that Springers are known for this type of behavior.

Springers are actually known for their sweet disposition. Springer "rage" is extremely uncommon and if it is diagnosed, the dog is usually put down. What your dog has does not sound like "rage" to me. I understand you have a money and time problem right now and can't devote enough attention to the dog. I am very sorry. We rescued a 7 yo springer 3 years ago and he is just wonderful but needs full time attention and lots of exercise. He is only happy when the entire family is in one room and he is next to us. Otherwise he gets anxious. I really hope you find a home for your dog.

 

[DisneyKT]

And a good trainer can tell the difference. If the behavior is because the dog is getting a little big for her britches it can be corrected very easily if you know what to do.

I have a small dog that came to us a little growly about laps and chairs. She learned this would not be tolerated. She'd rather not growl and stay off the floor.

What's bothering me is that the OP seems to have quit on her dog. Sadly, that's very common.

This is how it seems to me too. I could be way off base though.

OP people are saying you shouldn't own another dog because you have children and you always will put them first. As you should. But when you own a animal you need to make a life long commitment. And things are always going to come up with animals. Whether it is their behavior,medical bills, etc.

 

[Ember]

OP, I'm sorry you are having to go through this. It can't be easy.

That said, I do hope you listen to the advice of not owning another pet. I get that things happen and they can get expensive. But I've always thought that was part and parcel with pet ownership. You don't just have them when they're young and fun and easy, but you have them when they're older and sick, too. If you aren't willing to accept the responsibility of an older pet, then you should never own a young one. Pets should not be disposable.

I also get that parents feel kids come first. Who could argue with that? But then once a pet has been gotten rid of (by whatever means) do not get another one. I know people who got rid of their dog when the kids were born, only to get another one a few years later. I'm sorry, but that is irresponsible and selfish. These people are not caring about the best interest of their pet, they only want a pet when it's convenient to them.

 

[connorlevismom]

OP, just out of curiousity, how much exercise is your dog getting daily?

M Dh plays fetch with him most days when he gets home. But that is pretty much it. He really is not as into it as he used to be though, most of the time he is happy just laying around and sleeping. Must be his old age because his in his younger years he wanted to play ALL the time. Don't get me wrong, he still loves to play. He just gets tired out much faster than he used to.

Springers are actually known for their sweet disposition. Springer "rage" is extremely uncommon and if it is diagnosed, the dog is usually put down. What your dog has does not sound like "rage" to me. I understand you have a money and time problem right now and can't devote enough attention to the dog. I am very sorry. We rescued a 7 yo springer 3 years ago and he is just wonderful but needs full time attention and lots of exercise. He is only happy when the entire family is in one room and he is next to us. Otherwise he gets anxious. I really hope you find a home for your dog.

I don't think it is Springer Rage either. But it is interesting that people seem to have the same issues as I am having. I don't think most of the dogs in those situations on the link have Springer Rage.

My dog is not showing rage, just aggression and I think that those are different. Believe me, without kids this would not even be a discussion. But I honestly cannot take the chance and I don't think that locking him one area of the house so he cannot get to us is the option either. How is that not mean but trying to find him another good home is?

Kristine

 

[Dancemom03]

What's bothering me is that the OP seems to have quit on her dog. Sadly, that's very common.

DD and I were at the humane society once when an owner came in and surrendered his dog because the wife was pregnant and didn't want to bother with walking/training hubby's pre-marriage dog. I'll never forget the anxiety and look on this beautiful golden retriever's face as he watched his owner's truck drive away for the last time. Neccessary or not - even years later - just the memory of it breaks my heart.

Without making a judgement about OP's issue, I have to agree jrmasm... it is generally very common, especially before/after a new baby arrives, and incredibly sad. In today's economy it's happening more often for a vast variety of reasons and there are far fewer adoptive homes to go around for these faithful, former family pets...

 

[npmommie]

OP I think you have gotten some great advice here re: trainers.
since your vet has ruled out any medical cause, I also think training may help, you need to clearly establish yourself in the pack as alpha, you can go to the library and get numerous books on dog training, IF you are willing to devote the time and energy it takes.
this is a member of your family that has been with your for 9 years. I truly understand kids come first, but you also have a committment to this dog.
I think your vet is way off base by brushing it off as him getting "old and ornery"
thats not a fair assessment,
I would take him to another vet for another opinion. that shouldn't cost too much.

one of our dogs is older , when the kids get too rambunctious she nips at the air as they run past her,BUT she knows her place in the pack, and the minute a child comes near her, the demeanor changes. she knows they are above her in the pack.

 

[npmommie]

DD and I were at the humane society once when an owner came in and surrendered his dog because the wife was pregnant and didn't want to bother with walking/training hubby's pre-marriage dog. I'll never forget the anxiety and look on this beautiful golden retriever's face as he watched his owner's truck drive away for the last time. Neccessary or not - even years later - just the memory of it breaks my heart.

just hearing that story makes me sad

 

[jrmasm]

M Dh plays fetch with him most days when he gets home. But that is pretty much it. He really is not as into it as he used to be though, most of the time he is happy just laying around and sleeping. Must be his old age because his in his younger years he wanted to play ALL the time. Don't get me wrong, he still loves to play. He just gets tired out much faster than he used to.


I don't think it is Springer Rage either. But it is interesting that people seem to have the same issues as I am having. I don't think most of the dogs in those situations on the link have Springer Rage.

My dog is not showing rage, just aggression and I think that those are different. Believe me, without kids this would not even be a discussion. But I honestly cannot take the chance and I don't think that locking him one area of the house so he cannot get to us is the option either. How is that not mean but trying to find him another good home is?

Kristine

I don't think it's Springer rage either.

I really wish you would try walking the dog daily and keeping him off the furniture before you looked for a new home.

Gating in a room where he can see you when the children are awake and letting him out when they are asleep is not cruel. It's a way to manage a bad situation. But I don't think based on the information that you've shared that the situation is that bad.

I think some changes need to be made and I'd be shocked if things didn't get better.

 

[connorlevismom]

OP, I'm sorry you are having to go through this. It can't be easy.

That said, I do hope you listen to the advice of not owning another pet. I get that things happen and they can get expensive. But I've always thought that was part and parcel with pet ownership. You don't just have them when they're young and fun and easy, but you have them when they're older and sick, too. If you aren't willing to accept the responsibility of an older pet, then you should never own a young one. Pets should not be disposable.

I also get that parents feel kids come first. Who could argue with that? But then once a pet has been gotten rid of (by whatever means) do not get another one. I know people who got rid of their dog when the kids were born, only to get another one a few years later. I'm sorry, but that is irresponsible and selfish. These people are not caring about the best interest of their pet, they only want a pet when it's convenient to them.

I actually agree with you 100% on this. We will not be getting another pet until our children are out of the house and we have the time and money again to invest in a pet. Before we had kids our dog was our baby. He went to doggie daycare, went to the best kennels with swimming pools when we went on vacation. It is true, once we had kids our priorities changed and I cannot apologize to people for putting my kids first. So I do agree with you that we should not get another pet until our kids are out of the house. But to say that we should NEVER own another pet is a little extreme to me.

Should we have thought about this BEFORE we had kids? Maybe. But we got him before we were even married and when we got married we did not want to have kids. Things changed.

Kristine

 

[BCV513]

OP, forgive me if I missed this, but has your dog only shown these signs of aggression around your husband? Your dog may simply be afraid of men. I know after nine years it's late to start, but you never know.

If you feel like you have to give up the dog, please don't have him put down. Try a breed-specific rescue, or your vet's office.

 

[amg35]

I actually agree with you 100% on this. We will not be getting another pet until our children are out of the house and we have the time and money again to invest in a pet. Before we had kids our dog was our baby. He went to doggie daycare, went to the best kennels with swimming pools when we went on vacation. It is true, once we had kids our priorities changed and I cannot apologize to people for putting my kids first. So I do agree with you that we should not get another pet until our kids are out of the house. But to say that we should NEVER own another pet is a little extreme to me.

Should we have thought about this BEFORE we had kids? Maybe. But we got him before we were even married and when we got married we did not want to have kids. Things changed.

Kristine

I realize you are trying to defend yourself with this post, but all it's doing is making me sad for your sweet dog who gave you the best years of is life.

It is our job to be there for our pets as they grow old, when they were there for us for so long.

I don't think you should own another pet. Part of owning a pet is to be there for them at the end.