Love Takes All
Dear Frankie,
My family is very fond of Sparkle. She is a perfect guest when she comes for the day or stays overnight. The problem is Marcy, Sparkle’s mother.
Sparkle first stayed with us when Marcy was called out of town for a family emergency. When Marcy came back and picked up Sparkle, my mom told her what a great dog she was and if she ever needed to go out of town again, we would be happy to take care of her.
At first, Marcy asked us to take care of Sparkle every month or so. Recently, she has been asking us to take her every week because she has a new boyfriend who stays over and doesn’t like dogs.
My parents feel they are being used, but they are afraid if they tell Marcy that Sparkle can’t stay with us as often, she might surrender her or make her sleep outside when the boyfriend is around. In the past, she has tied Sparkle to the fence overnight. My family would like to know how to deal with Marcy without causing Sparkle harm.
Debby
Dear Debby,
IT INFURIATES ME whenever I hear of a dog being surrendered or tossed aside because of a new heartthrob.
I’m equally delighted when I hear the relationship didn’t work out, and the person who dumped their dog regrets their decision and is miserable and lonely. There’s nothing like poetic justice.
Maybe this story has more of a silver lining than it appears. Responsible dog parents understand when they adopt a dog, it is a lifelong commitment. They don’t pawn their dog off on other people, tie their dog up outside, or abandon their dog for someone else.
It sounds like Sparkle might be better off with a new family. Perhaps your parents should try to find a family who would like to adopt a friendly and well-behaved dog before they speak to Marcy.
Have your parents considered adopting Sparkle or telling Marcy they would adopt Sparkle if she would be willing to contribute financially to her care? She might be willing to pay to keep the boyfriend happy. GRRR.
Best, Frankie
© 2023 Geneva Woodruff
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