A Very Sad Story- Please Hear me Out
I was really pleased that G took an interest in dogs and everyday would ask how is Merlin, Panda and Blue. I started bringing in pictures and made him a book about my three dogs. It was really successful as he stopped talking about computers so much or least all of us at the school thought so at the time. Then he came to school one day and announced he got a dog. The dog turned out to be a tiny 8 wk old Chihauhau. I was stunned. Everyday I'm getting reports about how terrible the pup is being treated by this little boy and to please do something to ease this little dogs torment. You see G isn't a mean little boy at all, but does not have the mental capacity to know that he is hurting it and often says outloud to himself it's not a toy I don't kill it. Gasp! Reports have come to me from neighbors that he has grasped this tiny thing around the throat, or squeezes it's nose or it's ears. I've tried speaking to the mom several times regarding the pups treatment and how G is not ready for a dog at this time in his life, especially one so fragile. (I have to be careful how I interact with her as I don't want to alienate the family, as I want to continue our conversations in hopes she will see that I'm right.) The Humane society would not step as this isn't intentional malicious harm (according to them). The staff at the school all got together to see me yesterday and announced they've decided that everyone will chip in and perhaps I can offer to purchase the puppy from her. I had told them she purchased the pup from a pet store (urg!) and so it was probably a couple of hundred dollars. They said we'll get the money somehow. Saw the dad after school and one of the staff asked how much he paid for the pup...it was 700. Oh gosh but even if I have to borrow the money I want to get this little dog- school is out in less than 2 wks. Today, Mom showed up with the puppy. My heart broke seeing the frightened little dog when he approached it. It took all the reserve I had to not snatch it from her and run out the door. Instead we casually asked how things are going and she said my boy doesn't treat it very good I'm thinking of giving it away. All the teacher piped up..oh you should give it to Marianne. Mom said she's going to give it another week. I then offered to pay her something in hopes that would change her mind. She's giving it another week..I pray that this little fellow last and I pray that mom will make the right decision. I feel terrible that this little guy chats happily to me everyday about his dog and all I want to do is take it from him. I am filled with remorse that I even talked to him about dogs ....really beating myself up over this. Lets all cross our fingers, I want this to have a happy ending. Marianne  |
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Ohhhhh lordy. It is NOT your fault here. Obviously the parent is less than the brightest bulb in the pack. Do you think (if all goes well) that you will be turning the pup over to chihuahua rescue? I assume it exists... |
I agree, it is not your fault. I would have to agree that Mom and Dad do not shine very brightly. Parents of children with special needs should know the limitations of their children (including with animals) and keep those in mind when making major decisions like this. I have several friends that have children with Downs and they take this into consideration when making any decision, including simple things like going out to eat. Oops, kinda started a sermon there  . I hope all turns out well for you and the pooch. |
| Here`s me, being the mean one of the bunch....I would`ve snatched the poor dog and ran! |
| I don't know that you are being the mean one, I know I thought the same thing. Guess you were just the one that said it. |
| i hate to hear things like that i get so upset,it must be so hard for you SEEING it,i hope it all turns out ok,
good luck, xxxxfor the pup jacky |
| Good luck Marianne... you are already doing everything you can... it is NOT your fault these people were irresponsible and bought such a fragile pup that the little boy wasn't ready for. I would suggest they buy him a great big plushie dog. I have a stuffed animal that while it is not life sized, it is the same size as Dancer now, and looks very much like a real oes. |
Oh my goodness! Marianne, you have to write a book! Wow, these parents should be going to the school with their child! The fact that they bought him a helpless puppy who when grows up is very skittish and is quick to bite is beyond me! `You should find a breed description where it states that these dogs are prone to snap, this will probably discourage them from keeping the puppy! Hope all goes well and keep us posted! If she doesn't give him to you, we should all chip in  $10 if she wants money and Paypal it to you! Every little bit helps! |
| Thanks so much to everyone for responding.
Logically I know it's not my fault, emotionally I can't help feeling ultra quilty for even planting the seed in this little boys head. Urg! We have a meeting with the mom, principal and the school councellor tomorrow concerning this little boys educational plans for next year. We are also bringing up the issue of the puppy, who is now 12 wks old. They know I'm not trying to get this puppy for purely selflish reasons..but everyone is in agreement they are hoping the family makes the right choice and hands the puppy over to me. What a horrible situation I find myself in! I truly like and care about this little fellow and while it does break my heart to try to almost "plot" to take his puppy away from him I feel much stronger in my reserve to "save" this little dog from a life of torment. I am hoping mom will listen to reason but sigh she said she bought it cause he cried when he saw it in the pet store. Just shelled out 700 on the spot cause he wanted it. I should mention I'm going to be his teacher again in September. I'd probably keep the puppy as I know me and every animal that has ever come into my home supposedly even temporarily has stayed with me forever. I'm off for the entire summer in another 8 days and not returning to work until Sept 7th. Merlin, Panda and Blue would be fine with the pup, that I have no doubt about from their interactions daily with small dogs at the dog park. The cats would probably cuddle with him as they do with Blue and Panda. Thanks everyone for your support and while I really appreciate the offer of pay pal I'm really hoping Mom will just hand it over to me. I may even offer to take this little guy occasionally over the summer as trade which is no easy feat as he's a challenge for anyone. Crossing my fingers and will keep you guys posted. Marianne |
| somehow i knew you wouldnt be taking that dog to a shelter!!
i think willowsprite had a great idea, a large stuffed animal of a dog (maybe even a sheepdog?) might help ease his pain a little bit. and maybe if you have this dog you could have supervised visits with the boy so that he thinks its still his, but just living with you. maybe if you propose these things to the parents, plus the money the parents would oblige. i hope everything turns out for the best! |
| An Update:
Had a meeting with the mom and I was so proud of the school officials to take this case up seriously. The meeting involved several teachers, the councellor, Integration teacher for special needs, the principal and myself. We all tried to convince mom that this was not in the puppy's best interest nor her childs. Mom wavered and we all left dejected knowing she wouldn't give it up. The next time I saw the pup it was missing so much hair (stress related) eyes were watering and it was shaking uncontrollably. His teenage sister had it...she loves the dog too so mom has wanted to keep it for her. Luckily today she told me they have decided to sell the pup to her friend as he won't leave it alone. Last report I got from the neighbor that this little boy wanted to drop his puppy in a pool for a swim. All the more reason why with knowledge people should never buy a pup from a pet shop are chances they are from a puppy mill. Pet shops only want to make a profit as no breeder would have given this family a pup. I have heard again from neighbors that with the selling of this pup..whom thankfully may be saved from a life of abuse they are considering a Golden Retriever Pup for this child. I'm not going to mince words this time...what are you thinking???? With constant poking , prodding, pinching you are just going to have a dog that is going to be fearful and grow up probably biting your child or others. I hope I can put some reason into them. Crossing my fingers. I'm so frustrated and venting so thanks for listening to my rant. |
| An Update:
School was out last Wed and I still worried about the little dog. The mom called me yesterday and offered to sell it to me. I had previously told her I really couldn't afford the 700 that she paid for it, but may be able to get offer half the money. In our phone conversation I explained that I was n laid off for the next 8 wks but she said she trust me to pay her later. It sounds stupid and I know we should have agreed on a set price previous - I think she's selling it to me for half...no matter I'm determined to get the little guy and will figure out what to do later. Crossing my fingers that until I have that pup in my arms tomorrow she won't change her mind. Here's hoping she'll do the right thing. Marianne |
| Marianne, I've got my fingers crossed for you, and a small piece of advice. When you pick the pooch up tomorrow, have an informal (but written) agreement with you for her to sign. All it really has to say is she is selling you full ownership of the dog for $xxx.xx and payment will be due the whatever day of the whatever month of the whatever year you've agreed to. And be sure both of you sign and date it. Have it all spelled out for her and tell her you hate to have to be so formal, but you've known too many "friendships" that were spoiled over financial transactions, and you certainly don't want that to happen between you and her. She really should appreciate it and not be offended. I'm so delighted you are getting this poor little thing. Give it a tender hug from its Auntie Deborah, cousin Pirate and cousinette Molly!! Good luck, hon! |
| Marianne,
As a child of educators and my sister is special needs teacher (mostly autistic)children. What were these parents thinking? I pray that you get this puppy. If you want I have a huge OEs stuffed dog you could give this child. I'm in Edmonton and I could ship it to you at np charge. Thank goodness yiu have a caring staff and principal. Good luck , if you would like the dog post a reply. Chelsey |
| aaawww what a cutie in your avatar! |
| I GOT HIM!!!!!!!
Gawd it was awful sitting in that home while the sister was crying her eyes out - really felt badly for her but again remained strong in my resolve that this little pup would be killed if it continued living there. Dad reported the little boys latest thing would be hanging the pup upside down and saying "It's not a toy?" Luckily the parents did the right thing and although I had hoped they would just hand it over it took much wrangling (jeez I'm proud of me as I'm a whimp in this area) but I got them to sell it to me for half what they paid for it. They paid 700 at the pet shop plus just had it's 12 wk shots done at aprox 100.00. I also had them agree to let me pay them when I got some money. I really needed another dog like a hole in the head but feel I made a good decision. Thanks so much Deborah!!!! If you were here I'd give you a big hug!!!Your advice was invaluable as I wrote everything down to make it legally binding...made two copies and both of us signed it. I was a tad afraid as Dad said maybe in a couple weeks we could change our minds...I made sure that that was included in the contract..no changing minds as I would now have ownership of the puppy. If I turn around and sell I would give them the amount. I recieved if it was more,but would only do that through Chihauhau rescue. It took 350.00 to save the little fellow but no regrets as his life is priceless. I love that idea Casearoo and could you please pm me...thanks so much! Marianne - now mom of 4 dogs , 4 cats and 2 boys. |
hey marianne if you want to make that sig say 4 dogs 4 cats and 4 boys I could send you a couple! (just kidding)   
Good job! Are you planning on keeping him, or trying to find home a home? What is his name? |
Good questions Willow  , but I also want to know how the 3 big boys think of him? I am very, very proud of you Marianne! I think you are one in a million! Thanks a bunch for keeping us updated about this little guy. Give them all hugs! Stormi and co. |
| Marianne,
You are a saint! I don't think I've ever heard of so much love in one upright before. Bless you 
Peace, --Jim-- |
| Yeah Marianne!!
You gonna post some pics of the little guy? |
| Congrats on your new baby, Marianne! I'm so glad I could help, even if it just was in a very small way. What a lucky guy to be moving in with you and your family. And what a kind person you are to have seen this through instead of just giving "lip service" to a terrible situation. There's a crown waiting for you in heaven! (And probably a few strays ) |
| (Kicks dirt on the ground and says awww shucks guys)
Still not sure if I'm gonna keep the little guy. Not that I wouldn't love him or provide him with the best of care - just want what's best for him. Merlin, Blue and Panda have been great with him but I'm a little afraid he may get stepped on by his bigger brothers. The little fellow weighed in at 2 pounds 14 oz at the vets!!! OHMYGAWD!! Even our sheepies didn't weigh that much at birth!! As for more uprights...well I'll only take girls!!! I already have 9 nephews , 2 sons and now 4 males dogs ...well least 3 of the cats are females. The little fellow is 4 months old and probably won't weigh more than 5 pounds when fully grown. Yesterday we were a sight to see...me walking two large dogs and carrying a sling/pouch with Austin's head sticking out. For sure the neighbors are going to speak about me in whispers ..referring to me as that...nutty lady with the animals. |
| It sounds to me as though the best thing for the little guy would be to stay in an environment where some one cares enough about him to keep an eye on him and take care of him.....perhaps a place with a few sheepdogs and cats is the right place for him at the moment.
As for the weight differential - Baxter (OES at 96 pounds) and Rigel (cat at 10 pounds) play extremely roughly, chasing each other from one side of the house to the other. Sometimes Rigel chases Baxter, other times Baxter chases Rigel. Neither of them seem to notice the weight difference. And....since Rigel is smaller he can scoot into places that Baxter can't get to. Much to Baxter's chagrin. I'm glad the dog ended up with you Marianne. He needs a good home where he won't be hurt and where he can learn that it is ok to love a person. |
| And just so everyone knows how small our babies are at birth, most sheepies are less than one pound! 10-14 ounces is the normal weight at birth, but they usually double that in the first week! And are up to 10 lbs by 6 or 7 weeks! |
| Hi Everyone,
It's been a while since I've had a chance to post regarding Austin and his update. He loves going to the dog park with his BIG brothers, although I have to be careful and scoop him up when the park is full and the dogs start really racing ( it's LOOK OUT for uprights and small dogs) as you sometimes get as many as 15 dogs running full tilt. Still, I never have a lack of arms holding Austin as just like a newborn everyone wants to hold him for a bit. Wow! Willowsprite I didn't realize that Sheepies were that small at birth! Thanks for the info. Okay this is really stupid and I swore I'd never be one of those woman with a little "Poofy dog". However I talked my mom into knitting Austin a grey and white sweater and matching hat for those cold evenings. I'm sure he'll fool people into thinking he's a Sheepie like his brothers.
Thanks again everyone for your encouragment and support. Marianne, Blue, Panda, Merlin, Austin, Lil Girl, Daisy, Paris, and Asia |
| Oh that sounds sooo cute! I can't wait to see pics! |
| Awwww...Marianne! He's weasled his way into your heart already!!! HA HA! A sweater! I love it! Pirate's sister is little, too...and when she gets sick of him, she hides underneath him. He still hasn't figured it out! |
| Marianne,
Austin sounds wonderful and like he is fitting in very well with your crew. I am glad that everything has worked out for the little guy. He will look absolutley sheepie, oops I meant stunning in his little sweater and hat. Although I am afraid you might be turning into one of those little women with the "poufy dogs", but then Blue, Panda, and Merlin bring it to about even.
Best wishes and give of them critters a big hug, Stormi and co. |
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Thanks again Everyone! I'll make sure I post some pics when my mom finishes knitting the sweater as at the moment the weather is very hot here. |
| Another great story Marianne with a happy ending, you are so special!
I'm in a goofy mood but the thought of a sheepie sweater made me laugh. I'm sure a talented seamstress could take a sheepie stuffed animal, unstuff it and then make it into a little coat for a halloween costume for Austin! They have basically the same thing for kids - fake fur, one piece animal costumes.....Why not puppy costumes? Haha! Enjoy your crew! I can't wait for pictures. |
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