This post was implied to be titled, “Meet our new pup, Raven!”
Raven is a good, sweet dog, ideal in so numerous ways. The two dogs got along beautifully. but unfortunately, Raven is not the best canine for our family.
Two knuckleheads
Long story short, she was identified to kill my cat. She was doing what she was bred to do, hunt small critters.
There is “chase drive” and there is “I’m going to get that prey” drive. With time, a lot of dogs can learn to live safely with a cat. I do not believe that is the case with Raven.
I believe her instinct can only be managed, not eliminated. I do not believe an e-collar would “train” her not to go after my cat but would be a tool to manage the situation, at best.
One slip-up on my part – leaving a door open at the wrong time, dropping a leash – my cat would be gone.
I love my cat.
So of course, I’m sad. but on the plus side, Raven had much more than one option available for a good home. So things will actually work out very well for all.
Raven will not share her life with me, but she will go on to live a good life.
It is a hard thing to have to return a canine I planned to adopt. It’s hard to write about it. Those of you who foster or rescue dogs know all too well that some dogs are just not the best “fit.”
My canine Remy got to spend time with his sister, and they got along better than I could’ve imagined. They speak the same language, with obnoxious play, slapping and tackling each other in a way many dogs find extremely rude.
Most weims have no sense of “personal space” and Remy and Raven loved each other’s company. It was a lot of fun to see them together, and I’m very sad it won’t work out.
When the canine you adopt doesn’t work out – help for others
To help anybody else going through this challenging type of decision, I’m sharing two of my articles (links below). One is from 10 years ago (wow!). In 2010 I had not had to return a canine I planned to adopt, but I knew the difficulties of returning a short-term foster dog.
Returning a shelter or rescue dog
Returning a foster dog
I think my guidance back then was solid. It’s helpful to me, now. I may write much more articles on this topic, as I know it’s something so numerous canine lovers do face, unfortunately.
Dog lovers have big hearts. in some cases when we follow our hearts things works out perfectly. other times, they do not.
And so … sweet Raven Girl, I wish you well. You are a good dog. You are just not implied to be my dog. I hope you go and delight in your life.
Ravn
Adopted dogs need several weeks to adjust
I also want to make sure to mention that it takes a good month or much more for many adopted dogs to adjust to their new homes.
Often, you can work through many issues with a lot of patience, time and the help of a good trainer.
Every situation is unique, and I don’t want someone to give up on their new canine just because it did not work out in my particular case.
Do you have an example to share?
I hope you have never had to return a canine or cat you planned to adopt, but it happens. If you have an example you’re prepared to share, please do. It is helpful for others in the same situation.
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