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.

 

 

 

 

[Suzann, Rosey & Bandit]

I have not been through this, and am sorry to hear of your situation. But is there anyway you could not seperate them or deal with it as you would kids and share custody? I can't imagine Rosey & Bandit seperated, they are very close. If you abosolutely have to, from your post it sounds like Jack & Moose need to be together and with you.

[Camilla and Darwin]

I am so sorry that you are going through this. I have never been in a similar situation, but a friend of mine has. They only have one dog and both love her, so they share the time with her. It's tough, but it's the best solution for them. From what you listed, it seems as though Ivan is probably more equipped to handle the separation. and Jack and Moose are somewhat dependent on each other... so it seems they should probably be the ones kept together?

[Ricki and Tara (doodle)]

I am really sorry to hear about your situation at home but I applaud you for having such consideration for your dogs and their future happiness.

I went through a separation many years back which involved two dogs. The female was more attached to me and the male to him. But beyond that they were totally bonded to each other. Also, he had received the male dog as a gift so I could not claim ownership of him and could only have taken the female. I was the one who left and in the end I made the choice (one of the most difficult of my LIFE) to leave her behind in the home she was familiar with and with her canine "brother".

From your description of the dogs and their relationships, these are my thoughts:

1. Best if all dogs could stay together and with you.

2. If one must be separated it sounds like Ivan would do the best with that but could possibly benefit from having another canine companion in his new situation

3. Jack and Moose most definitely need to stay together because of their relationship with each other. Also, with their sensitive natures they will already be upset by the other changes happening in the household. Separating them could be extremely stressful for them.

4.I recently read of a judge who awarded joint custody of a dog to a couple who were divorcing. In the past when there was not an agreement between the people as to the dog's future living arrangements, the Court normally required that the dog be treated as "property" and sold. I believe that each had custody of the dog for 6 months of the year but I can't remember all of the details. Perhaps you two could consider some type of joint arrangement with your dogs were everyone could benefit. I don't know how a joint arrangement would be received by the dog's themselves-if it would just make the confusion last longer or if they could adjust to it...but it may be something to consider.


Like I said, just some thoughts and I am hoping for a smooth transition for all of you!

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

I too am sorry to hear this. I don't think there are any easy answers. It does sound as if Jack & Moose should stay together, but Ivan may not do very well on his own. Schnauzers are one of the breeds that often have severe separation anxiety, and rescues more than most.
What a tough situation for you. Whatever you decide, I hope it all works out for everyone concerned. Hugs to you.

[Suzanne & Jack]

Thank you for your comments. We are trying to both be reasonable about the situation. I have found him a short term apartment that would take a small dog. We could still take everyone to the dogpark. This is what I am pushing for. I think Jack and Moose might actually like a vacation away from Ivan.

[Laurie, Fudge, and Vern]

I am sorry for your situation. I hope all three of your dogs can stay together. This has to be a difficult time for everyone. Good luck.

[Kendra K. Rhoton]

Suzanne, my heart breaks for you. I have not been through this situation either, but to me it sounds like Ivan would be the one better to handle living with your husband. I would not separate Moose or Jack after reading what you wrote... they seem much more bonded. If this were my husband and I's situation we would have to have shared custody of Remington. We are both extremely attached and in love with him as he is both of us. Good luck Suzanne. Many prayers coming your way.

[F, Calla & Luca]

It is a very difficult time. Just remember you can only make the best decisions possible at this time and that you both and the dogs will recover with time.Best of luck.

[Marcy, Girls and Ruby]

I am very sorry for what you are going through, difficult for all involved. My ex-husband and I each entered our relationship with a dog. When we separated, my dog had recently passed away and his dog stayed with him. Even though my living situation suited a dog more than his. Wish I had some advice that reflects your situation but it is wonderful that you are thinking it through compassionately. I wish you strength for your road ahead, it will get better.

[shelly]

I am so sorry to hear about your difficult situation... other than repeating what others have said about Ivan being the one to go with you DH, all I can say is that I wish you some peace of mind. I am sure you are very overwhelmed right now. Good Luck!!!

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

You have been given thoughtful advice. I think you and your husband just need to make the best decision you can, evaluate it after a period of time and be open to changing it if it seems like it needs to be changed. It sounds like you are both trying to do what might be best for the dogs rather than trying to 'win.' That makes me proud of you both.

[Denise & Hunter!!!]

I am really sorry for what you are going through. I have been there and it was a time of my life I don't know how I got through now (even though it was what I wanted it was emotionally terrible). We didn't have a dog at all (part of why he was history! LOL ~ just kidding but he was selfish!) - so I didn't have to deal with that. Everyone has really good advise about how to decide, I hope for yours and their sake that you two are able to come to an agreement. I will say a prayer for you!!