[todseyah]

<span style='font-size: 11pt'> <span style='font-family: Verdana'>I'm wondering everyone's opinion's on this situation i've been presented with. Where to start...

When we moved here it was a military move and we were given a very short period of time to pack everything up and find a place to live down here before we were to report (3 weeks to be exact). We had purchased a GSD puppy in July and were told in September that we were being relocated. We brought Gunner with us when we moved but were not allowed to keep him at the townhouse we were renting per management rules once we arrived (they require a meet and greet with each dog and he was too "skittish" for them so they denied him.

Long story short, I have a friend (Tatum) who moved down here a year before we did and he asked if he could take him. Of course I was thrilled and said yes. Tatum's had Gunner since December 2006 and he's one pretty boy now! Here's my question....

Tatum's lease is up and he's having trouble finding a place that will allow him to bring Gunner since many places down here consider the GSD to be an "agressive breed" or he just exceeds the maximum weight limit. He's asked me if I would like Gunner back now that we have moved and are allowed GSD's here (there are several here in fact, including 4 K-9 cops!).... what are you thoughts? I'm thrilled at the chance to have him back again however he needs to be neutered still and needs work with jumping (I have two toddlers). Both issues are easily corrected and i'm very happy to attend to both, just wondering if you would take him back again? </span> </span>

 

[butch33611]

This seems like a personal decision you'll have to make on your own. I dont really understand what your asking. Its obvious to me you want the dog, you say correcting the jumping and getting him neutered are no problem so....whats the problem???

If your just asking what I would do, id have him back in a minute!!!

 

[Guest]

In a heartbeat. BTW, South Carolina dog rules are why I left there for Florida. Frankly, they suck.

 

[onyx'girl]

Do what is best for the dog. I would take him back, but I know it would be a forever home, I would not give him up again. Gunner deserves security and love- being moved around is hard and going to a home with small children is going to be a big adjustment for him. Don't set him up to fail. By the way, Welcome to the forums!

 

[kbigge]

I would take him back but only if I knew for certain that under no circumstances would I re-home him again. I hate to see people get dogs and then get rid of them b/c it's no longer convenient (can't easily find an apartment, etc that allows dogs), or whatever the reason is. I was a military wife, so I know it's hard to plan for moves, etc, but if you think this situation could happen again, I would not take him. Dogs need security - it's hard enough moving WITH the same family, let alone from one to another. Good luck - I hope you can take him back and keep him!

 

[Cooper&me]

HE IS YOUR DOG. Your friend was doing you a favor. It is now your turn to step up and take respondsibility.

Your friend was there when you needed help. Time to return the favor.

 

[GunnersMom]

I have to agree with what Onyx and Kodee have already said.
Take him back if (and only if) you're prepared to make the commitment to him for the rest of his life. And I would give serious thought to whether you have the time to care for him, work on his manners, exercise him and just tend to his daily needs with two toddlers. If you honestly think you can do it, then of course I'd take him back. But if you have any reservations about it, I'd maybe see if there's another alternative for Gunner.

PS - love the name, by the way!

 

[WiscTiger]

If you don't take him back what are the options? You friend stepped up when you were in a jam, now it has come full circle.

If you don't take Gunner back is he going to be turned into a pound? If you don't think it will work with the kids, what resources do you or your friend have for finding him a good home?

 

[Papanapa]

Has Gunner been socialized around kids much in the past 2 years? I would only take him if you are willing to work with him and keep him forever. I do think that your friend helped you out when you needed it but if you don't decide to take him back you probably should make sure he finds a good, loving, forever home.

From the sound of your post, I think you just may be welcoming Gunner back into your home. Ain't love grand??

 

[todseyah]

Originally Posted By: ShellyGHas Gunner been socialized around kids much in the past 2 years? I would only take him if you are willing to work with him and keep him forever. I do think that your friend helped you out when you needed it but if you don't decide to take him back you probably should make sure he finds a good, loving, forever home.

From the sound of your post, I think you just may be welcoming Gunner back into your home. Ain't love grand??

<span style='font-family: Verdana'>Yes, I made sure to ask about the child socialization first.</span>

 

[todseyah]

I am going to take him back, he's coming over on the 10th when we get home from vacation. I have him scheduled for the 13th to get neutered.

 

[Brightelf]

I would take him back, BUT, I would also be fair and almost EXPECT problems at first-- with the kids, wife, visitors, other dogs, etc etc etc.. just because the transition will be quite hard on him.

Again, only take him back with the understanding that when he has issues with the kids, that you put the time into working with him, with professional help if needed. He deserves a stable home.

Good for you for being there for Gunner!

 

[kbigge]

Originally Posted By: TodseyahI am going to take him back, he's coming over on the 10th when we get home from vacation. I have him scheduled for the 13th to get neutered.

Is it possible for you to wait a little while longer before getting him neutered, so he can at least get settled into a new routine in his new home with you? I know he'll remember you, but it seems kind of rough on the dog to have him undergo surgery 72 hours after getting him back...just a thought. Are you worried about him being aggressive towards the toddlers if he's not neutered or something?

Just curious...

 

[onyx'girl]

I agree with you KodeeGirl, no reason to do the snip right away. If it is done, maybe a week or two before you take him into your home. He is going to be under an adjustment just moving, let alone a trauma on top(or bottom)(

 

[Timber1]

Sorry, if I again offend a few folks. But when you take a GSD it is forever, and for better or worse. I have one rescue and one so-called high end dog. My rescue was adopted only a few days ago, but as I told my rescue group, once I mde that decision the dog is mine, always.

 

[bearlasmom]

its fantastic taht you are taking him back. he will turn into your two toddlers best friend in the world. congrats. but i agree with consensus, dont get him neutered right away, hes been through a bit, so give him time to settle in

 

[RubyTuesday]

Quote:Sorry, if I again offend a few folks. But when you take a GSD it is forever, and for better or worse.

One very minor quibble. This statement s/b true, whenever you get a pet, regardless of breed or species.