Separating and how will it effect the dogs

[Suzanne & Jack]

DH and I are in the process of separating.  We have 3 dogs, all of which are attached to me.  Regardless as to who moves out one of us will probably take one dog.  If anyone has been through this I would appreciate input as to how you dealt with the dogs.  Their dynamics are as such-

 

Jack- Labradoodle, 3 yo, completely dependent on me, very sensitive, cries if he thinks Moose is going somewhere without him.

Moose- Catalan sheepdog, 3 yo, loner, but cries when Jack leaves him.

Ivan- Mini Schnauzer, 2 yo, rescue, loves attention, constantly trying to get Jack or Moose to play with him.

 

 

 

 

[Joanne ~ Spud*]

In the mid 1990's my family had two huge dogs ( 250lbs worth), 3 cats, 29 fish, along with two sons and all the trimmings. As the men usually say, " She got it all", and I did, and all the costs that go with caring for "ALL". My X got my boss so I lost my job too.

Since ALL stayed with me the adjustment for the animals was minimal. My mastiff actually did not like my x much. He had been a rescue with some behavior problems and calmed down once he moved out. The animals can and do pick up on tension in the home. So in this case peace in the home, even though sad sometimes is much better for these sensitive and intelligent dogs.

Financially, I asked the court for support of all the animals. After all, I had some serious costs in vet care, and feeding. I had more animal than I had children to feed poundage wise. The court laughed and of course I was denied. I wondered if I could care for all. The challenge made me stronger willed. But I made it. We all made it! Eventually, it became the best thing for us all.

I hope you can find a way to keep all your dogs. It is the dogs and their love that will surround you and get you through this. Yes, they need you, but it is times like these that you need them more.

So many dump the dogs during a divorce. If you both are considering your dogs at a time like this --I find it commendable. Hope you find some peace in knowing that even if you split the dogs, someone who loves the dogs ( and you both do) is caring for them.

Best wishes.