Jazz, my old pet, on death row

[HeeBGBz]

I left her with my sister when I couldn't keep her. They thought they found a home for her but the people returned her because they said she refused to go to the bathrooms outside.

I thought the people had a farm. Turned out they had an apartment.

My sister can no longer keep her and my brother-in-law is suggesting they take her to the vet to be put to sleep.

I'm just sick about this. I wish I'd never moved. I came here to be with my daughter and grandson and I can't have pets.

I loved that dog and she was a dear companion. I don't want to see or hear that she is gonna be destroyed.

All the shelters are full except the one that kills. If anyone has any ideas or if you're near Missouri and have room, please let me know. She doesn't have much time.

[BrklynLiberal]

1. God! That really sucks. Such a sweet soul is going to be destroyed

because of cruel hearted stupid humans!! This is disgusting!!!!!

I hope she finds a home. Try Best Friends in Moab, Utah!!

DAMN DAMN DAMN!

[amerikat]

2. I wish I could help.

I have my hands full here in NY. So many beautiful animals to many stupid humans. If it is any consolation I found a dog a few weeks ago........the day before she was to be put down I found someone willing to adopt her. She is doing fine. She has a good home and lots of love and care. Miracles do happen. I would take her in a heart beat if I was nearby.

[lavenderdiva]

3. HeeBGBz,

I am a dog lover, and just HATE to hear of your desperate situation. Is Jazz a German Shepherd? How old is she? She looks like a real sweetie with that kittie on her tummy! Looks like she is giving the kitty puppy kisses in one of the pics.

Where in Missouri is she currently located? Can your sister & BIL keep Jazz until she finds a new home? Did Jazz have a potty problem previously? Or is this a new behaviour? Can your daughter take Jazz in?

I am trying to do some research to help you, and if I had more information, it would help.

Others have posted to try to help you as well. Check these out:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=105&topic_id=3846189&mesg_id=3846189

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=162x3742

[HeeBGBz]

13. Thanks, she is in southern Missouri

She considered those kittens her own and was more of a mother to them than the mother cat was.

The dog had NO potty problems while with me or my sister. In fact, she would hold it in and explode before she would go in the house. But the people that took her said they would walk her for an hour and she would pee, but as soon as she came in, she would poop on the rug. They really liked her personality, but couldn't deal with the poo problem.

I talked to my sister a while ago and she starts back to work at the school Monday and will try to find someone there to take her.

Her death is not as immenent as I feared last night, but my sis can't keep her, because she gets loose sometimes and chases the neighbors chickens. She doesn't kill them, but she likes to carry them around (like she did the kittens). The thing is the chicken doesn't know that and gets quite traumatized.

We can't have pets here (even though I have a fenced yard) because the wicked witch of a landlord I have (my ex-husbands current wife - whom is causing additional other problems out of meaness)

Thanks for helping. I emailed a few rescue places. I will keep working on it.

[friesianrider]

4. You need to contact your sister...

And tell her that this dog is not to be PTS until you can find a suitable place for her. If my sister even *suggested* such a thing and followed through with it, she'd no longer be my sister anymore.

She shouldn't have taken this dog in unless she was willing to keep him. Animals are a lifetime commitment, not an "until I can't keep it" fad.

Your sister owes it to you (and most importantly this poor dog) to keep her safe until you can find a good home for her - and you MUST tell her this. People who consider putting an animal to sleep for "reasons" (and I use that term loosely) such as this literally make me ill to my stomach.

[lavenderdiva]

5. Agreed, friesianrider!

If you agreed to take in a small child, would you deem it necessary to put it to sleep, if it had accidents?

Her sister made a commitment, and needs to tell the BIL to back off. I just can't understand this mentality.

[friesianrider]

6. Ditto, my friend.

I would be supremely pissed if my sister even suggested such a thing. Our relationship would indefinitely cease if she actually acted on it. Sick, sick, sick. I'd tell her she'd be very sorry if she followed through with this.

That being said, I have to say that if God forbid they insist on putting the dog to sleep, I would prefer it be with the sister who the dog knows (and preferably if they insist on doing this selfish thing, they pay a little extra to have a vet do it at their house), rather than dumping it at a shelter where he'll sit for 5 days and then be PTS by strangers... confused and depressed.

Things would be so much easier if people just never got pets unless they were willing to do whatever it took to care for that pet and keep it it's entire lifetime. Bottom line: if you aren't willing to go the extra mile to find a place that accepts your pets or whatever when you move, you shouldn't even be getting a pet. I've had many, many, many times moving, lifestyle changes, etc where it would have been MUCH easier to just give my pets away but I'd sooner live on the street before doing that.

Pets aren't a piece of furniture that you can just toss around from household to household hoping they fit into someone's decor, and then when they don't they can just get tossed out to the street like trash.

[HeeBGBz]

17. Thanks for all the guilt trips

I had to make a choice. I didn't think it would work out this way. I got the dog because I wanted to give her a good home. I gave her a good one for 4 years.

I had to make a decision. I did not have many options financially. Sometimes you have to give up a pet. I realize now I should have left her in the humane society and never gotten her at all, but I really thought I was doing a good thing at the time.

[Kashka-Kat]

30. people just feel strongly & are advocating for the animal

You said you had to make a choice--well, you still have choices. I sincerely hope it works out for the best. It's for YOU too, you know! We want you to be able to feel good that she has a good home and not have to worry anymore. Try posting on some of the regional forums or on your local free cyle. Good luck.

[ernstbass]

26. Great post!!!

People who can't afford to accomodate their pets when they move have NO BUSINESS having a pet - incredibly irresponsible - I can't imagine it!!!!

[HeeBGBz]

32. Thanks ernst.

Things were going okay when I got her and I kept her comfy and happy for 4 years. You must have lived comfy all your life to not be able to imagine a loss of security and finances that would change all that. I thought I could give her a life outside a cage in the pound. Silly me, for not being psychic.

[ernstbass]

36. Actually I have experienced much hardship in my life

including havding a home burn to the ground but giving up my pets (a commitment just like having a child) was never a consideration - you have no sympathy here - I'll save that for your poor dog!!

[HeeBGBz]

38. If you are so "concerned"

You might have offered ideas instead of criticism. I don't want your holier-than-thou sympathy. If you'd bother to read, I had a home lined up for her, the people renigged.

By your definition, I guess rescue people are bad too, for taking in animals they don't intend to keep for a lifetime.

How long did you live on the street with your animals after your house burned?

[Robeson]

7. I couldn't agree more. Pets are a lifelong commitment, and if....

...people aren't willing to make that commitment, then they should never bring them into the family. And I might add, when one does come into the family, they ARE part of the family. Does one give up a child because it becomes "inconvenient", or doesn't fit into their "lifestyle" anymore? And a child is a hell of lot more stressful than a pet.

[smbolisnch]

10. Agreed,

This is a terrible situation. Call your sister, please. :kick:

[HeeBGBz]

14. She didn't take her voluntarily

Time came for me to leave and I still hadn't found a home for her. My other sister had two possibilities lined up so my other sister agreed for her to stay thinking she would be gone in a week or so.

So this is my fault way more than my sisters.

At present though, the PTS option is on the back burner.

[cornermouse]

8. Where in Missouri is Jazz?

[Neecy]

9. what a sweetie

Where in Missouri? I'm in Kansas City, maybe I can find a good home for her. How much does she weigh? How old is she? It's hard to tell her size from the photo.

[HeeBGBz]

15. She's in the south, near Branson

She weighs about 60 pounds and is 6 years old.

[Neecy]

19. okay...

I'll check around this weekend - it's very possible I can find a home for her, and even get you photos and progress reports on a semi-regular basis. Branson isn't very far.

Can I ask - is she spayed? Do you know how she is with other dogs?

[HeeBGBz]

20. Great, yes, she is spayed

I only recall seeing her interact with one other dog. She used to love to play with the neighbors dog. I think she would be okay, but I can't say for sure.

[Neecy]

21. perfect

I'm getting the word out today. I have a couple of people in mind who would be perfect for her.

Such a sweet dog, and she seems really well socialized, too. I'm not surprised she was having some house training issues. It sounds more like a little bit of separation anxiety than a long-term problem. Dogs are definitely creatures of habit and new surroundings/owners can be traumatic (my dog has a TON of behavioral issues when I go on vacation and leave him with my sister). I think she'll be fine in time.

[HeeBGBz]

22. Thanks so much!

Let me know what you find out.

[Neecy]

23. how cute!

In that top photo, she looks like a really big (really big!) Corgi. I love the ears.

[Lorien]

11. If there's any way to get her down to Central Florida

our Rescue could take her in. Have you looked on Petfinder? Maybe there's a rescue group in a neighboring town that could help, too.

[HeeBGBz]

16. Working on it.

Sent some emails.

[CrispyQ]

12. She's beautiful! And looks to be a very loving animal with those kittens!

Carpeting can be replaced. It's just an object whereas the dog is a living, breathing creature. Sorry that I'm not more helpful. Attitudes like your BILs really piss me off.

Hopefully you can work something out with one of the above responders who have offered help & ideas. I will hope for the best.

[Coventina]

18. Your sister needs a new husband, seriously

Any man (and I use the term loosely) who would suggest that an animal die for convenience is complete scum.

[Is It Fascism Yet]

66. Right, that's it in a nutshell. N/T

[mzteris]

24. rescue groups

http://muttcats.com/shelters/missouri.htm

here are some - there area probably more (google is our friend) - St. Louis isn't that far from Branson....... start calling!!

[newsguyatl]

25. wow, she's just stunning

please keep us updated, i can't imagine her not finding an immediate home with someone...

love the pics to by the way -- they lower my blood pressure just looking at them.

agree with everyone else here about your sister -- that she's even considering it, is telling... if she goes through with it, well, then, there'd be a price to pay.

[auburngrad82]

27. Try this place. They may be able to help

http://www.strayrescue.org/

Stray Rescue of St Louis. They may not be able to take your dog but they may be able to help find a home.

[auburngrad82]

28. She's beautiful

Looks like she could have some Swedish Valhund in her, but since it's a rare breed, not likely.

We run a rescue in North Carolina and I'd take her but I don't see any way to get her.

How old is she?

[HeeBGBz]

31. She is 6. I got her from the pound when she was 2

I had her for 4 years.

I just had an offer from someone who maybe can help with the transportation for her to go somewhere. I need to check with those who said they might take her if I could get her there.

[Patiod]

29. If you haven't done so already, post this is the MO state forum

You've likely to find someone geographically compatible.

As for the self-righteous who say they would never find themselves in a situation where they couldn't take care of a pet, there are situations where you're screwed, and I hope you never find yourself in that situation.

My brother, who never made much money, lost his job. If he and his wife are forced to move, and there's no apartments available in their crappy small town which would take pets, what do they do? Live in their car with the dog? When you get to a certain level of poverty, to option to keep/own a pet can be effectively taken away from you. So what, you don't get a pet unless you can guarantee you'll never find yourself in precarious financial situation?

All very nice to look around your house that you own, or the nice pet-friendly apartment you rent say you'd never give up your pet, but not everyone has options.

[IndyOp]

37. Thanks Patiod for your understanding post --

I do believe that a dog is more important than a carpet; and that too many people do get pets with a 'throw away' attitude (I can't keep it if it leaves nose print marks on the glass door) AND I believe that there are times when circumstances become such that loving pet owners should be supported in relinquishing their pets.

I hope things start looking up for your brother. F*** B*** very much.

[HeeBGBz]

39. Patiod, you have a kind heart

Yes, sometimes you just have to admit you can no longer keep an animal. Giving up a pet is hard enough, but then to think it's in a home better than you could provide, only to find it doesn't have the home you thought it had and hear it is in limbo and to be 600 miles away with no reliable transportation or money and feel ripped up inside that you made the wrong decision is not a very easy place to be.

I dearly thank all of you who are offering ideas and compassion. It makes up for those who feel they have to criticize and condemn without offering anything constructive.

[HeeBGBz]

33. Jazz update

Someone has contacted me who might could help with transportation to get her to a new home if someone wants her.

There was someone from Michigan who offered to take her, if I could get her there, but I can't find my original thread where the post was.

[Kashka-Kat]

34. Lets start pet transport system!

Not only for this situation but others that might arise.

I used be on the feline diabetes forum, a truly amazing community of pet lovers. There were a few times when pets were transported cross country by someone driving a couple hundred miles, passing animal on to the next person, and so on until the animal reached its destination.

Anyway I'm in Wisconsin and could do a leg if needed but not until I'm back from vacation on the 25th.

[HeeBGBz]

35. Sounds like a good idea

I could possibly do that in the future.

[China_cat]

52. There already is such a transport system.

It's called CUR...canine underground railroad.

http://members.aol.com/paladin003/sanctuary/cur.html

[Neecy]

40. I've found an owner!

A terrific woman in Kansas City who will give Jazz a great home. She says she can pick her up in Branson this weekend.

If you can PM me, I can give you her phone number and email address so you can get in touch with her.

[regnaD kciN]

41. Another angel emerges from DU!!!

:yourock:

[BrklynLiberal]

42. Wow! That is TERRIFIC..but to be expected from the folks here at DU!!

Can't wait to see pics of Jazz in her new home.
This is such good news!!!!!!!!
Neecy..a big fat hug for you!!! :hug: and for everyone else who contributed good thoughts and positive energy for Jazz's 'salvation'

:bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

HeeBGBz.. I hope this gives you some peace of mind for now....

[Robeson]

43. That is truly great news.

[peacebuzzard]

44. Neecy, keep us posted on this. If this falls through, let me know and

if original poster HeG...can find more details on a home in Michigan that wanted her, that could be a second option. Sounds like you are close to her .... KC to Branson is not far?
I could possibly assist w/ transportation to a distant location if a "good" home can be found.

[ET Awful]

45. YAY!

Good Job!

WoooHoo for doggies and doggie saviours :)

[superconnected]

46. Yaaahooo! DU strikes again.

[IndyOp]

47. Please let us know if the lady from KC kept her word

and picked up Jazz from Branson...

:kick:

[HeeBGBz]

48. Update: Jazz is gone to her new home! Thanks DU!

From what my sister says, Jazz should be very happy and treated with lots of love and spoiled in all the good ways a pet should be. I'll be anxious to hear how she's doing in her new place.


Many thanks Neecy and everyone who helped in the search for a new home!

[superconnected]

49. Yahoo! Wonderful news!

My new black cats seems to have settled in. He sleeps on my bed all day, everyday now.

[BrklynLiberal]

55. He knew when he chose you that he had found a winner, and he was right...

:bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

[Robeson]

50. That is great news! Yesssss!....

...:woohoo: :woohoo: :bounce: :bounce: :toast: :party: :thumbsup:

[smbolisnch]

51. That's WONDERFUL!!!!

I am SO happy to hear that Jazz has a new place! :woohoo:

[ET Awful]

53. WoooHoooo

Congratulations to Jazz, I'm sure she'll be fine :) She looks like such an easy going love dog that I can't picture anyone NOT loving her :).

[BrklynLiberal]

54. Wonderfu news!! Please keep us posted on how she is doing....

So glad she is in a place where she will be loved and appreciated.

[Neecy]

56. I'm glad it worked out

I'll keep you posted on how Jazz is doing in her new environment. I'm going to get her a new toy and some rawhide chewies as her housewarming gift - she's got a very good new mom, and I know she'll be loved and cared for.

[peacebuzzard]

57. Neecy, Neecy, YOU are the best!!

I am so , so , happy. !!!!!!!

It is chilly here in Alaska, but I am warmed in my heart. :yourock: :woohoo: :applause:

[Neecy]

58. naw

It's Jazz's new mom who's the best - I got an email from her this morning, and here's how Jazz did yesterday:
-----
Hi, Denise.

Haven’t called your mom yet – busy weekend! – but Jazz is a real cutie. It took her all of an hour to get comfy at my house. Within being home for an hour, she was lying on her back on the couch beside me with her head in my lap snoring to beat the band! She loves the other dogs (my Sharpei is almost her same size), and she is getting along well with the other animals including the cats.


Just wanted you to know she’s doing really well. If you want to advise the owner of my name, etc., here it is. Please ask her to feel free to drop me a line or call me at any time, and if she will send me her address, I will be happy to send her periodic photos of Jazz. Because I have a dog Jett also, and it seems to confuse her some, I’ve been calling her Jasmine, and she answers to that as well.

Have a great week, and rest assured that Jazz is doing fine and I believe she is very happy with us!
-------

So, all's well that ends well.

[peacebuzzard]

59. Wow!!! A new home! Jett and Jazz.

That is so great. Thank you thank you. I can't wait to see pictures. Lots of people here are interested is this happy ending.

[peacebuzzard]

60. Wow!!! A new home! Jett and Jazz.

That is so great. Thank you thank you. I can't wait to see pictures. Lots of people here are interested in this happy ending.

[BrklynLiberal]

63. Neecy..you did good! As far as Jazz is concerned, you are her

Fairygodmother! This has been such a happy ending!!
Can't wait to see pics of Jazz in her new home!

[flvegan]

64. Heh heh...not that it matters, but

I have new heroes, today.

Neecy and Jazz' new mom.

Take a bow.

Thank you.

[Robeson]

61. You did good Neecy....

...:thumbsup:

[Lorien]

62. Great job!

I'm so glad that Jazz found a safe place to call home in the end. :yourock:

[peacebuzzard]

65. Footnote on Jazz story: HeeBGBz went through the eye of the hurricane.

Last I heard from her, the storm was coming her way. The Gulfport animals shelter she worked in was inundated with abandoned pets by the people fleeing the area. They were down to feeding the animals half rations.

I have pmed her, but so far, no response.

Sending good thoughts to this lady who really tried to find a home for her old pet. Now that this has happened, things REALLY worked out for the best for Jazz, her old pet who is now in a happy dry home in Missouri.