Rob and I have been dealing with a tough decision. Sydney isn't getting along well, growling and snapping at the other dogs and we're trying to decide what to do about it. Giving up on a dog goes against everything in me, yet I've come to accept that Syd would be happier as an only dog.
We've had scuffles between Syd and Mac in the past that didn't amount to much but things are escalating and it's becoming a tense situation for all the dogs as well as the humans. Last weekend we had a serious incident where a neighborhood dog charged the fence and my whole pack tried to defend their territory. We had the perfect example of 'pack mentality'. When they couldn't get at the other dog to drive him off, fights broke out in our pack. Mostly it was benign except for Mac and Syd. When Syd snapped at Mac, she retaliated and Syd was badly bitten. We rushed her to the vet and once the bleeding was controlled and she was cleaned up, the injuries were minor. Still, this is a situation we don't want repeated. We're keeping the sisters separated which involves a lot of shifting of dogs from one place to another and keeping both girls on leashes when in the same area.
After several days of thinking and discussing, we've agreed that Syd will probably have to be rehomed. This isn't easy. There are a lot of dogs looking for homes these days due to a poor economy. Syd would need a home with no other pets and no small children. She'd also need a place with a safe area for her to run as she prefers spending time outside. She probably would not be happy as an apartment dog. She would be happy with a calm person who wants a cuddly lap dog and gives lots of belly rubs.
On Monday we'll meet with Dr B to see if he has any suggestions. Perhaps offering her something for anxiety would help the situation. If not, then we'll proceed with looking for a safe and loving home for the little girl.
Mac gets along with all the other dogs and is much less high strung than her sister. Nothing much seems to phase her except having her sister snap at her.
14 comments:
Oh what a hard decision. Only you know for sure
Lily
Oh wow. So sorry to hear this. That can't be an easy conclusion to come to, but with that many dogs it would be imperative that 'outbursts' not happen. Having to keep them separate would just seem impossible after a time. Your girls are so at that terrible teen age too. I've been fortunate so far that my two sister dogs are doing okay. Minty is extremely dominate (and a bit of a bully) and Carly is very submissive and easy going, but I keep thinking, if Carly ever has enough....
You are in my thoughts as you work towards a solution and/or new home.
Tammy
Howdy mates, I'm sure you've thought and re thought every possible solution to this problem. You know your dogs and you know what is best for them even when the decision is not one you want. Whatever happens, I know it will be done because of love and that you want the best and happiest life for each and every dog involved. Take care. No worries, and love, Carol (and Stella and Rory)
It sounds like you've thought this through from all angles and you know your pups best. Our paws will be crossed that Syd finds the most perfect home if the anxiety med fails.
Love ya lots♥
Mitch and Molly
This is a really sad story. You have done so very much for these girls, taking them in when they were really too little to be taken from their Mama, but after nearly a year, you surely know what's best for Syd. I know you'll find her a good home, and I hope that helps alleviate the tensions within your pack.
I'm so sorry to read that it has come to this, but I know all too well what you're going through, and I know how hard you've tried to find that balance between Syd and everyone. I so respect you for putting her needs above what you want, which is to keep her. I know because of your dedication and love for Syd, she will find another perfect forever home.
Oh Sue, I know how devastated you must be with this decision. Take care of you <3 g
Would a thunder shirt help or pheromones?
Oh no. I can only imagine how difficult this must be for you. I have never had a dog that wasn't able to assimilate into my pack, even our frequent house guests. I think I should learn to be more grateful for that.
I wish we were closer geographically, as the area I live in has no excess pet population and there are a number of private animal rescues that are incredibly diligent (and really picky) about finding just the right homes for dogs. Even our local SPCA frequently has no dogs available for adoption. All of our shelters are no kill shelters, except with cause - poor health or viciousness. And that is very rare.
I will be thinking good thoughts for all of you. Consider yourself hugged. ♥♥♥
I'm sure you've heard of this stuff, but just in case you haven't, it might be worth a look.
http://www.bachrescueremedypet.com/
Big hum Sue.
Here I am looking at this and thinking of a year or two back when.. oh, if only....
Seems when you lose a dog, your very best friend, well, you know :-) your lost completely.....Now 2 and a half years later and one very lucky mutt who lives with us. There are so many out there........... They don't all have to be shipped across that pond either. Right on our door step.. Saw one look a like Amie Soto Blossom tonight that was being given away.................... SO SAD...
But with a pack.. it's different.
I'm sure your baby has been to the vet so she can't have pups. It must be dominate thing. There has to be an Alfa female
... in our case it's me :-) Good luck dear friend and keep watching those stars.. we watch the same one's. x x x
Well, you already know our Penn story... we knew instantly *I* had made a horrible decision, and his 20 hours with us truly set Gretchen back years in her social development/anxiety management. We're very sure you'll make the best choice possible, for everyone involved. Just the same, crossed paws...
Oh Sue, I know you will make the best decision for all involved... although I know it isn't easy at all. Just remember, it's not giving up on her, it's giving her the loving life she truly deserves.... however, if meds work wonders, so much the better!
Keep me posted... and hugs!
That's tough. We just got a foster dog back today because he wasn't fitting in :(
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