Thinking of returning a dog to the shelter, what would you do?

Dogs Forum
21

@Kip
Thanks for telling me that! I didn’t know about misdirected aggression. I feel a little better knowing it’s not permanent.

22

Uma said:
@Bailey
Thank you. 🩷 I was worried about the dog getting hurt too, especially since she’s small and older. Mittens could really do some damage. I feel so bad about all this.

If the dog was a small breed, she’ll likely get adopted fast. Little dogs are in high demand. Your cat will settle down too, just give it time. Maybe try calming sprays or treats to help him relax.

23

@Sawyer
That’s so reassuring. The shelter people said the same thing. Thanks for the suggestions! I’m going to spend extra time with the cats today.

24

Uma said:
@Sawyer
That’s so reassuring. The shelter people said the same thing. Thanks for the suggestions! I’m going to spend extra time with the cats today.

That’s great to hear. Cats are resilient, so they’ll bounce back. Take care!

25

I went through something similar. My cat freaked out over a foster, but things slowly improved. It took a lot of reassurance and patience, but they eventually got along. Animals need time.

26

I know how hard it is. I had to return a dog we couldn’t handle, and it hurt. But like you, I shared helpful details, and the dog got a great home. Sometimes, you have to prioritize your family and pets’ well-being.

27

Conley said:
Our local shelter has the same policy. They never criticize people for returns. Sometimes, it just isn’t a good fit, and that’s okay. You care, and that’s what matters.

Thanks so much! Our shelter has been supportive, and that’s made this a bit easier. I’m hopeful she’ll find a loving home.

28

Just a heads-up: cat bites can be serious. If it’s a deep puncture, watch out for infection. It can get bad quickly.

29

Val said:
Just a heads-up: cat bites can be serious. If it’s a deep puncture, watch out for infection. It can get bad quickly.

Thank you for the warning! We’re getting his bite treated ASAP. I didn’t realize how bad cat bites can be.

30

@Uma
Glad to hear you’re taking it seriously. Infections from cat bites are no joke!

31

You’re doing the right thing. Ignore anyone who makes you feel bad about it.

32

Mai said:
You’re doing the right thing. Ignore anyone who makes you feel bad about it.

Thanks, I’m trying to focus on what’s best for everyone, even if it’s tough.

33

I had to return a dog once too. It’s painful, but sometimes it’s the only option. You have to think about everyone’s safety and well-being, including your own.

34

Lei said:
I had to return a dog once too. It’s painful, but sometimes it’s the only option. You have to think about everyone’s safety and well-being, including your own.

Thanks for sharing. It helps to know others have been through this too. I just hope Mittens gets back to normal soon.

35

@Uma
He probably will. Cats are resilient, just give him time.

36

Lei said:
@Uma
He probably will. Cats are resilient, just give him time.

Fingers crossed. Thanks for the reassurance. I’m ready to give them all the love they need.

37

You did the best you could. Sometimes, pets just aren’t a good match. You made a tough call, but it was the right one.

38

Olin said:
You did the best you could. Sometimes, pets just aren’t a good match. You made a tough call, but it was the right one.

Thanks, I appreciate you saying that. I’m still processing everything, but your words help.

39

@Uma
Hang in there. You clearly care, and that makes all the difference.

40

It’s hard, but you did what you had to do. I had to return a cat once, and it was heartbreaking, but necessary. You’re doing the best you can.