Frustrated

[Discussing Labradoodles & Goldendoodles]

Can someone please explain why there are so many beautiful doodles with wonderful temperaments that are turned over to IDOG and the DRC?  How is it that people "finally" realize after 3 or 4 years that their doodles are too energetic or require too much attention?  Are most of these dogs relinquished by first-time dog owners?

http://www.petfinder.com/petdetail/16250140 

She sounds like an absolute angel as do all of the dogs listed.  Don't people realize that golden retrievers, lab (and poodles) are sporting dogs that have high-energy needs?  Sometimes I think people buy doodles because they want a dog that looks like a teddy bear, that doesn't shed and that does whatever you tell it to do... maybe they should buy a stuffed animal instead.  Sorry to rant, but it is so frustrating to see all of these wonderful dogs thrown out by their families.  Thank goodness for the DRC and all of the wonderful volunteers that can give these wonderful dogs a second chance.

[Lucy & AnnaBelle's Mom]

I know you have heard me talk about having to adjust to a new home on more than one occasion. That is the part that breaks my heart. This will be Jett's 5th environment (breeder, owner #1, owner #2, shelter, foster home, and finally his forever home! And he is a year old! It is a wonder he is the sweet boy that he is.

[Allyson, Peri & Taquito]

I agree - that is what I was trying to say about viewing a dog as an "accessory". I view them as a companion and integral part of my life. Not just something that is cute and looks good when I walk them. Bad behavior or hyperness would never cause me to give a dog up - I become way too attached and would figure out a way to solve the issue. I still know there are other reasons that are valid for giving up a dog that people truly cannot help though. Lack of training or exercise is not the dogs fault though and not a good reason IMO.

[Laurie, Fudge, and Vern]

Very well said, Karen.

[Denise & Hunter!!!]

I have a hard time even looking at the rescues, it just breaks my heart that people do not consider their dog a member of their family. I have raised my girls that any pet is a living, breathing "being" with feelings, emotions, loves, wants and needs. I agreen Karen that people need to put in the training in the beginning. It sounds like this pretty girl Sasha had the training but lacked a family that she was a "member" of and she was just a "thing" - sometimes when I see them I think of how much better off they will end up being and that makes me feel better. What is this family showing their kids? That if you get tired of an animal just get rid of it - so irresponsible and the kids will end up the same way. Taking a great dog, like Jett, to a kill shelter is just awful, people just make me sick.

I happen to know someone that just pplied for Sasha and I am saying a prayer because I know that she would be loved and cared for like she deserves :-)

[Frannie & Callie]

Jane - this is such a hot-button topic for me. Are these people giving away their human children because they're difficult to potty train or just "take up more time than I thought they would"? It's a little bit the same to me. I'm so, so thankful that organizations like the DRC and IDOG exist. Of course people go through ups and downs in life and sometimes can no longer afford to keep their pet. I'm not talking about those people. I'm incensed by the people who buy dogs as a fashion accessory. Every time there is media attention on a dog breed (like the Obamas and the doodles, the Taco Bell chihuahua, or 101 Dalmations), people buy them in droves at low bid (usually puppy mills) and then turn them into shelters to be killed, because they had NO IDEA what they were getting into. There's no excuse for that. We all have google...do a little research. Dogs (and cats, birds, etc) are living beings and shouldn't be impulse shopped like a pack of gum at the register.

[Camilla and Darwin]

It's funny that you posted this, because DH and I were just barely having a discussion about it. It simply shocks me that people who have had their dogs for years are WILLING to give them up. I have only had Darwin for 9 months and I can't even think about how awful it would be to have to give him up. I would hate even leaving him when we go on a trip... trips are more fun WITH your dog, of course! It is hard to think of a realistic situation that I would actually consider rehoming Darwin. Short of a complete life crisis, I just wouldn't and couldn't do it.

The other thing that gets me is people who have had their dogs for years and try to sell them in the classifieds to the highest bidder. How can you not care who your dog is going to? A dog that you have spent years caring for, and being loved by? I saw someone just the other day, trying to "rehome" (sell) their doodle, saying that "We just don't have time to brush him" Why didn't you think about that before? Why don't you cut him short so he's easier to keep. Why don't you stop being lazy and make a sacrifice for your dog? Argh! It makes me so angry.

I am worried that if something happened to DH and I, Darwin would be placed in a shelter, and adopted out to one of these types of people. People who adopt him because he's cute, without any kind of research or commitment. Can you put your dog in your will? :-) Has any one else thought about this? What have you done to ensure your dog goes to someone you trust, in the event that you died?

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

I actually have thought about this, and it so worries me. We are fortunate that I'm pretty sure our daughters would want to take the dogs, and they would be wonderful dog owners. One of our daughters has a Golden and I know she's totally open to adding at least one more dog in the future. Our other daughter also really wants a dog, but she's waiting until the kids are a little older. They are in love with Guinness and Murph, and this really gives me some peace of mind.

[Camilla and Darwin]

Unfortunately... nobody in my family cares for dogs. Even if they did, they would DEFINITELY be outdoor dogs, and I know they wouldn't brush and care for Darwin as I do. It definitely gives me something to worry about.

[Camilla and Darwin]

Caitlin, that is so nice. :-) I would gladly take Albus too, who wouldn't love that wiggly butt when he plays soccer? ADORABLE.

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Listen, if you're taking names, put me & JD on the list, too! At least you know he'll eat well! I'd love to have Darwin!

[Camilla and Darwin]

LOL, you guys are so great. I'm so glad I have dog loving friends here on DK!

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

The trust fund issue is one that many people wouldn't think of; I have to, because even though I'm blessed to have several people in my life who would give Jack a loving home, they might not have the time or finances that his care requires.