-I’m moving and I can’t take them with me
Really? You have prepared your entire household for a move and you can’t find the decency to bring your dog along? This is one that I just cannot understand. If I were to move, one of the first things I would ensure is that I was going to a place that was dog friendly. I feel like moving with a toddler would be more stressful than moving with a dog, but you don’t see people lining up to give away their babies.
-We’re expecting a baby and don’t have time
Look, I understand that it is going to be a huge change when the new baby arrives, but your dog is not the one who made the decision. Yes, it will be a change and I’m sure it will be stressful, but how do you not make time for the dog that was once a loved member of the household? What about when you have a second baby? Are you going to give the first one away because you won’t have as much time to spend with them? Of course not, so why are family dogs subject to this excuse?
-They are too rambunctious
One word: TRAINING! Enroll your hyper puppy in some obedience classes to curb the bad behavior. Take them on a walk or to the dog park to get their energy out. This excuse basically equates to ‘I’m lazy and it’s too much work to train this dog.’ Pathetic.
-My landlord said I can’t have it
This is one of the most common reasons that dogs such as pitbulls are given up. While it may be true that the lease agreement prohibits a certain type of dog (more on the absurdity of this later), did you not think to check the rental policy before getting this dog? It’s common sense people!
-I’m getting a divorce
I am utterly confused by this one. A couple fosters ago we took in a dog that was given up to rescue because his owners were getting a divorce. I honestly don’t even know why divorce from another person would be any reason to give up your dog. If I were ever to separate from my husband, he would have to fight me for my fur kids.
And on and on and on. Just when you feel like you have heard them all, there’s a new one. 9 out of 10 times, the issue could be solved with a simple solution that just takes a little bit of time and effort.
Open your eyes people! This happens every single day to innocent animals who are at the mercy of their owners' decisions. Please, if you make a commitment to a pet, make it for life!