Struggling with family member regarding our possible addition

[jenn D]

So on Saturday (changed from Friday) we go to assess this golden doodle and see how he gets along with our boys. If it's a match, awesome. If not, we know we can help find him a loving home and at least he is safe from the no kill shelter.

Things are going well except when I told my mother about what was happening. She was very upset. She did not think we should add another doodle and proceeded to tell me I was crazy, not thinking things through and basically a dog hoarder.

I am so upset by her reaction although I did expect it. She had a fit when we got Jake and then pickles. It doesn't matter that I've had tons of compliments on how well behaved our three are, or how my house is still clean and organized with 3 dogs. It doesn't seem to matter that I give them quality food, plenty of attention, brush daily and even learned how to groom and that I carry pet insurance on each. She doesn't seem to care that I go to lengths everyday to train each of them and socialize them. Her words have made me feel terrible. Now I am worried I will be seen as crazy dog lady (although I probably already am) and that she will continue to criticize.

I'm not sure why I am posting this. I guess I am trying to get my head cleared. I don't think my mom understands that as a stay at home mom, my passion is training and being with my 4 legged creatures when my 2 legged ones are at school.

You would think after my daughter battled leukemia and beat it I wouldn't give a darn about what someone thought about my life choices that bring joy. Unfortunately, I do when it comes to a few people.

Thank you for listening. I'm going to go back and play with the three dogs I've "hoarded".

Jenn

[Leslie, Yogi & Maci Bear]

Jennifer, do what you know to be right. No one else can live your life. If you have the love, time, and finances to divide between your children and your wonderful dogs, then go for it. Two children were enough for me (real), others want a dozen. Everyone is different and we should embrace it.

[Stella]

You should tell her that it could be a lot worse - you could be the wife on the "19 kids and counting" show!! Maybe then four dogs wouldn't look so bad!!

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

Love this response, Stella!!!

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

This is why we grow up and move out!  I am often reduced to a rebellious teenager when conversing with my mom - much as I love her.  I really would not listen to others' opinions of how many dogs you can have. Good luck with your meet-up and if he seems right for your pack, I say go for it.

[Thomas, Chari, & Lady Belle]

I'm not entirely sure why mothers think they are a greater authority on what's best for their adult kids - even a greater authority than the kids themselves.  You know what is best for you. Act on it.

[Lynn D.]

Yeah..... you do 75% more than most folks do for their dogs. I don't even brush my one dog on a daily basis, frankly he doesn't need it since I keep him clipped short.

It's your house, your rules. If you want another dog, can afford it, do it. I wish our collective voices could weigh more than 1 negative Nelly.