Tuesday, 11 May 2021

Have you returned a dog to the rescue?

I am deeply struggling with a very difficult decision as to whether or not I should return the dog I have had for 3 months to the rescue, and would like to hear experiences of those who have returned dogs and what the circumstances were.

Context: I had done a lot of research, and a lot of planning and life changes to ensure I had financial security, and time for a dog. I've had many pets before, many with special needs or aging needs, as well as a coordinator for a dog visitation program so I was very well versed in dog behavior prior to taking her on. When I was approved for her, I spoke with her foster multiple times to get a sense of her temperament and needs, and she seemed like a great fit (okay, I have anxiety maybe a bit type A...)

Since day one there has been a number of health needs, some of them quite serious, as well as behavioral issues that may be connected to some of the pain concerns, some of them being breed specific or learned behaviors as well (high prey drive, escape artist, aggression to me, but level two bites, and same with other dogs).

We have been to the vet 10 times, she has a major surgery planned for Friday that is soooo $$$. Vet visits have already been $2,000, we've done some training, and lots of pain medication. It has taken every ounce of emotional energy outside of my very emotionally taxing job to care for her and I've been finding myself extremely stretched. The rescue is finally come back to let me know they will take her back (after months of telling me that I'm on my own, I left a review on their website that stated I didn't feel supported by them when she came with undisclosed health and behavioral issues...). I've also been doing a ton of research on other rescues who say that they won't take her on, that she's not viable to rehome because she currently has aggression issues, which may lead her to euthanization. I become numb and disengaged very frequently with her and I don't think it's fair to her... I am heartbroken and not feeling clear headed, but also realize I may be putting forward $4,000 simply to rehome. But I also love her and want to make sure I've done everything I can before making this decision.

TLDR looking to vent some frustration, as well as hear about any positive or negative experiences about re homing or returning a dog you had been prepared for for some time

TIA

submitted by /u/applepomme
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from Pets https://www.reddit.com/r/Pets/comments/nagud2/have_you_returned_a_dog_to_the_rescue/

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