Might have to find new homes for our girls.

[brianjoy81]

We have two sweet girls. The brindle is 2 years old, the fawn is 1, will be 2 in November. This is such a heartwrenching decision for us. We know they aren't getting the love and attention they need right now. I am pregnant and have been told by my doctor to take it very easy due to some concerns. My husband is super busy cross training in the Air Force. Then, to top it off, we are moving to Biloxi, MS the end of the year to a new base. I can't do much as far as playing and loving on them. My husband is here for maybe 2 hours a night. Please give us your advice. We love them so much and so does our daughter, and I feel like we are motivated to get rid of them because it is an inconvenience for us right now, but might get better in a few months. Thank you so much for all the help I know I will get. Just going through a hard time.

 

[EAO76]

Sadly a new baby is a very common reason why dogs end up in rescue & shelters. As much as I hate to see dogs get re-homed if the only other option is that they are under exercised & ignored then I think finding them a better home is the right thing to do for the dogs. But if you do re-home your boxers please don’t get another one anytime soon because (especially with a young, growing, military family) life is full of unexpected changes and inconveniences and you’ll probably be faced with a similar situation down the road.

If you do decide to find them new homes I suggest you work with a rescue organization that has experience with proper placement and will do home checks and reference checks on any potential adopters.

Only you know your dogs and what they need. Good luck with your decision.

 

[ehayes21]

Would hiring someone to come in and give them some good exercise during the day not be an option?

I know it has to be a very hard decision. Good Luck.

 

[Indy's mom]

Having raised 3 boys extremely close in age and with a firefighting husband, Air Force son, military background growing up, I'm pretty familiar with your scenario. Truthfully your situation probably will change again and again. Here's my 2 cents worth.

If the dogs are generally well mannered animals and get along well with your family, I would as suggested by others, look into getting a dog-walker. Taking them to doggy day-care once or twice a week is a wonderful way to reinforce their training and social skills and wears them out as well. Set up play dates with another dog family if at all possible. I know that military families support one another whenever, however possible. Reach out to others and hopefully there will be others who can help you.

These girls probably represent some real stability to your family. Such an important thing for you and your children, reassuring for your husband as well. Please think long and carefully before making any decisions.

Most of all, know that any decision you make, has to be the right one for your family. You will be supported by all of us on this board. We expect and appreciate that you are trying to make a tough decision based on what will be best for everyone involved and that involves these wonderful dogs.

Know that we're here for you any time, and please let us know what you decide, because we really do care.

 

[ELubas]

Very tough spot for you :( Guess i agree with Indy's Mom inasmuch as dogs are very adaptable to changes as long as they are cared for. Do not know if financially a dog walker or day care is a possibilty, but that would be ideal. Did your girls come from breeders who might be willing to help you out during this time. Many times breeders will step in and offer assitance, particularly to militiary families. I do not envy you this decision but you need to do what is best for your family. If you have to rehome please try to rehome them together, as that will give them some security being together. And fostering through boxer rescue being what it is (in short supply) hopefully you can keep them with you until a suitable home is found. Please keep us posted on how you make out.

 

[SILLY6PAK]

I pray I am never in your situation. We have always made getting a dog a life time commitment. When I was single and poor I often fretted over my respondsi ility to my then two dogs. At one time I had 3 jobs and hardly saw the dogs. It was not a fun time in our lives. We were a family and survived.

I will keep your girls in my prayers and hopefully this will have a happy ending.

 

[brianjoy81]

Thank you guys so much for all of your help. It really is a tough decision, and I really do appreciate all thoughts and advice. One point I really appreciate is the stability part they play in our family. Our daughter is really attached to them, after all, what would she do without her big furry pillows? Still thinking, but am so glad for the other points I wasn't even thinking about. Thank you again and keep it coming!

 

[Baileysmom]

I totally understand being pregnant and all the emotions that go along with that and having a husband that isn't around all that much. But there are dog parks and like others have said, dog walkers.
I don't want to see you regreat your decision (if you choose to make it) down the road.
It is a hard one and in time you will see things will get better. I am sure someone is willing to help you out and come and play and walk your dogs.
Is there any kids around that are responsible enough who love your dogs that might be willing to make "play dates" with them? Or even walk them in the evenings for a few bucks??
Good luck with whatever you choose.

 

[boxerzdanez]

Where are you located?

 

[tastubbs]

Sounds like you have a lot going on right now, maybe even overwhelmed by the thought of things. I have been there too, and decided to keep mine. You might try hanging in there for a while and seeing how things go. I live in Mississippi (but not from here) and I can't tell you how helpful friends and neighbors are in a time of need. You might find a great support system there. Also, the state Boxer Rescue is only about 30-45 minutes from the base. They might be a resource for you if you decide you need it.