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Alegria


Kate Spade

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PLEASE HELP!!!! *Update*
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On Wed. we got a 7 week old yellow lab. Well, I was completely unprepared for it. I got talked into it by my kids and sister. After a few days I have realized how stressed out I am, how it's sad since we don't have time for it. It's home all day by itself. The potty training issues are out of control. The kids aren't really stepping up. I know my oldest wants the dog but I'm not so sure about my youngest. Basically our whole lives have been turned upside down and I can't handle it. My oldest son was tired and cranky this morning when I made him get up a half hour early to deal with the dog. I can't see the kids taking on more responsibility even though that seems to be the logical thing. What do you girls recommend? How do I tell the kids we might have to get rid of it? I feel like an irresponsible pet owner. I don't want the kids to hate me. I'm sad and stressed out. Please help. To top it off, I'm starting to deal with more divorce issues now. YIKES!



*Update on bottom.

-- Edited by Alegria at 12:16, 2008-03-06

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Elle


Hermes

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RE: PLEASE HELP!!!!
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I think it'd be best to find the puppy a new home - keeping it even though you know it's not right for you would be worse, for you and the dog IMO.  Puppies are sooo much work and require a huge investment of time and money to raise into well-behaved adults, I think most people underestimate how much they take over your lives!  It's an unfortunate lesson to have to learn the hard way for your kids, but hopefully now they know how much prep and consideration needs to go into choosing to get a pet.  Especially an energetic dog that won't stay small for long!

Maybe if you approach it family-decision style (and guide them to the correct choice, of course) and make it about what's best for the puppy they'll have an easier time of it.  A puppy needs training and room to run around and time for playing, and so it can be your boys' job to help you find someone who can offer him that smile.gif. 

As for finding him a new home, I'd not return him to where you got him.  Also, I'd avoid putting an ad online or in the paper.  Try calling a local trustworthy vet and asking for recommendations for rehoming a puppy, and you can also check to see if there are any local rescue organizations in your area - many times they foster in-home and they screen potential adopters.  Good luck!

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To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment ~ {Ralph Waldo Emerson}
emery


BCBG

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Well, I just got a 6 week old lab during Christams. For awhile, I seriously thought about getting rid of her, I hated her, and sometimes, it was so overwhellming it made me cry, but now I am totally in love with her. If you can stick through the next 2 months I think you will be happy you kept her. Mine is almost 100% potty trained, and is much more mellow than she used to be. I have another lab that is a year old, and it helps so much because the 2 of them play together. I know another dog may not be a realistic option for you, but if you know someone who has a dog you may try and do a play date together, or maybe even a dog park after all her shots are done. The time with another dog/s wears them out, and a sleeping dog can't get into trouble, or pee anywhere bad. Fell free to PM me if you have any questions. Good Luck!

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boobaby


Kate Spade

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I was guilted into taking my dog - he was a very ill-behaved 3 month old and I was a struggling single woman in my mid twenties. I hated him and was so angry at myself for taking him. I was angry at the friend who dumped him on me, too. I wanted to give him up but I was too afraid he was unadoptable and would be put down - he seemed to be possessed by the devil in my sleep-deprived mind.

Anyway, the point is, puppies suck in so many ways. But that is just because they are puppies. They do take time and tons of patience. I love my dog so much now and I'm glad I got through that stage. But you will be tried by this puppy or any puppy. If you can't commit to that, I would recommend a rescue organization. As for your kids, if they are unwilling to start helping you with the puppy, then the puppy should go to someone who is willing.

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halleybird


Hermes

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IMO, you are not an irresponsible pet owner for realizing you took on too much. However, you did get the dog, and you owe it to that pet to find it a good, loving home if you can't keep it. I agree with the others that the puppy stage DOES get easier.

As for the kids, I would just break it down for them: it's a living thing that needs constant attention. If the kids can't give it the time it needs, then it will go to someone who does. They may be upset, but it's a good life lesson.

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"We live in an age where unnecessary things are our only necessities." --Oscar Wilde
Cricket


Gucci

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I have 2 labs, and they are the best dogs now, but the puppy stage was some rough stuff.  Our oldest ate anything and everything when he was a pup.  He destroyed so much (he even destroyed a lawnmower and BBQ).  He is the sweetest dog, and I'd get a lab again, but IMO it sounds like your pup is going to be way too much for you right now.  I'm sure you won't have trouble finding him a new home.  Labs are such wonderful dogs and they are the most popular dog in the country now, so there's a good home out there for him!  Let us know what happens, okay? 



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Alegria


Kate Spade

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Update:
I found him a home. I actually found him several homes but gave/sold him to one of the teachers I work with. She loves him, her son loves him, and I still get to visit. They even sort of kept the same name Auto to Otto. Yey, trust me I won't be making the same mistake again any time soon. Thanks ladies for your support and advice.

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I am my own woman. ---Evita Peron
halleybird


Hermes

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RE: PLEASE HELP!!!! *Update*
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Alegria, cheers to you for finding him a good home!

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"We live in an age where unnecessary things are our only necessities." --Oscar Wilde
Elle


Hermes

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Nice work - a new home with visiting opportunities! 



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To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment ~ {Ralph Waldo Emerson}
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