What would you do? (regarding pets and moving)

[PamNY]

I live in NYC and all the dogs I know travel in elevators without relieving themselves. Most (adult) dogs in my building go out three times a day and do just fine. "Sit" in the elevator works great until you have the elevator rules established (and it's good to fall back on when you have an ancient dog on Lasix).

Ten hours alone is too much for many dogs, though day care or a dog walker could help. The cat issue sounds harder unless you find a huge apartment.

I think returning the dog to the rescue is acceptable, responsible and probably best for everyone. However, you definitely should tell the rescue the dog demands to go out every 20 minutes and in the middle of the night. Perhaps now that his health issues are resolved he could get some additional training.

[spokewench]

Maybe if you describe the situation to the vet clinic you will be working for; he can become the special vet pet! Then, he could be at the clinic all day and have lots of attention?

[indysteel]

IThe cat issue sounds harder unless you find a huge apartment.

If you don't think the dog can be trained to live harmoniously with your cats, than I think it would be best to return him to the breed rescue group, especially in light of your other issues. All things considered, it just seems like the puppy needs more attention than you can give right now. Better to admit that than to force everyone--you, the dog and your cats--to make do. The anxiety and stress the situation will engender will not be good for any of you.

[tulip]

Sounds like you've been a good foster-owner for the dog, getting him back to health and figuring out his quirks so someone else with a more appropriate setup can take him forward.

[GLC1968]

Sounds like you've been a good foster-owner for the dog, getting him back to health and figuring out his quirks so someone else with a more appropriate setup can take him forward.

This is what I was thinking.

I'm a huge dog lover and animal friend, but I agree that in your particular situation, the best bet would probably be to let the rescue find him a new home. Where you are now, you know the rescue and the work they do. Plus the dog is young and probably very rehome-able in your current smaller town. This may not be true if you took the dog to the city and then ended up having to make the same decision a little later down the road because you all couldn't make it work out.

We had similar problems when we moved here and had to rent for awhile with a cat and two 75 lb dogs. We paid a premium for housing that would allow the dogs (and we kept the cat hidden) until we could buy a home. But our situation was temporary and we knew it. If it had to be a long term situation, I don't know what we would have done.

[Aggie_Ama]

With him being a puppy I am sure the rescue group would be able to easily place him. Even with his health issues the documented care by a vet foster/owner would probably make most realize his potential to be a loving pet. I wouldn't leave him home 10 hours. I have made the mistake of getting a puppy in the last year and not being able to be home with him enough. In addition to him needing some good TLC, I feel like the worst person ever when I come home and he looks like he is going to pop from being crated too long (both with energy and being ready to potty). He deserves better but I am hoping some things will be able to change for our situation and help my little man.

You sound like you're realistic in the hurdles for the puppy and as hard as it is I think getting him back in rescue would be the ultimate best life for him and your kitties.

[Kubla]

I agree with Tulip (and others) who have suggested re-homing the puppy. You saved his life and brought him back to health, but could not have known at the time that your life was going to change drastically. Please don't feel guilty about that.

It's a difficult decision, but your long workdays and his behavior with your cats makes this a stressful situation for all. You will need your time and energy to focus on caring for your mom. With the excellent care he's received so far from you he will blossom in another home, and the rescue will do their best to match him with the right folks.

[emily_in_nc]

I agree with Tulip (and others) who have suggested re-homing the puppy. You saved his life and brought him back to health, but could not have known at the time that your life was going to change drastically. Please don't feel guilty about that.

It's a difficult decision, but your long workdays and his behavior with your cats makes this a stressful situation for all. You will need your time and energy to focus on caring for your mom. With the excellent care he's received so far from you he will blossom in another home, and the rescue will do their best to match him with the right folks.

Beautifully stated. I completely agree.