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  Damn Yankee
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Location: Somewhere between raising hell and Amazing Grace | Why do so many people toss their pets away just because they are having a kid???
i guess I'm dumb when it comes to that. I see pets as a commitment no matter what. I understand some people have no other option and there are some pets that become dangerous unexpectedly with children, but not all.
Ill have to post a pic but we are adding three red foot tortoises to our family today because the owners are pregnant. |
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 Undercover Amish Mafia Member
Posts: 9991
Location: Kansas | I never got rid of my cats, and I've never had any issues with them around my daughter.
I do however have to find a home for my dog. He has taken to nipping her and knocking her over while we play outside (he is a puppy and he does want to play), but he caused her to faceplant into gravel last weekend. I will not give up my kitties!!! |
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Expert
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| missroselee - 2013-11-20 9:03 AM
Why do so many people toss their pets away just because they are having a kid???
i guess I'm dumb when it comes to that. I see pets as a commitment no matter what. I understand some people have no other option and there are some pets that become dangerous unexpectedly with children, but not all.
Ill have to post a pic but we are adding three red foot tortoises to our family today because the owners are pregnant.
Why do 50% of marriages end up in divorce?
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 Too Skinny
Posts: 8009
Location: LA Lower Alabama | Time. Babies take up so much time and im sure turtles need a similar amount so she is doing right by both by finding them a good home. |
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Damn Yankee
Posts: 12390
Location: Somewhere between raising hell and Amazing Grace | DD2012 - 2013-11-20 10:09 AM missroselee - 2013-11-20 9:03 AM Why do so many people toss their pets away just because they are having a kid???
i guess I'm dumb when it comes to that. I see pets as a commitment no matter what. I understand some people have no other option and there are some pets that become dangerous unexpectedly with children, but not all.
Ill have to post a pic but we are adding three red foot tortoises to our family today because the owners are pregnant. Why do 50% of marriages end up in divorce?
Relevancy? |
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Hungarian Midget Woman
Location: Midwest | missroselee - 2013-11-20 9:21 AM DD2012 - 2013-11-20 10:09 AM missroselee - 2013-11-20 9:03 AM Why do so many people toss their pets away just because they are having a kid???
i guess I'm dumb when it comes to that. I see pets as a commitment no matter what. I understand some people have no other option and there are some pets that become dangerous unexpectedly with children, but not all.
Ill have to post a pic but we are adding three red foot tortoises to our family today because the owners are pregnant. Why do 50% of marriages end up in divorce?
Commitment. Nobody takes it seriously. |
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Damn Yankee
Posts: 12390
Location: Somewhere between raising hell and Amazing Grace |
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Damn Yankee
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Location: Somewhere between raising hell and Amazing Grace | barrelracr131 - 2013-11-20 10:24 AM missroselee - 2013-11-20 9:21 AM DD2012 - 2013-11-20 10:09 AM missroselee - 2013-11-20 9:03 AM Why do so many people toss their pets away just because they are having a kid???
i guess I'm dumb when it comes to that. I see pets as a commitment no matter what. I understand some people have no other option and there are some pets that become dangerous unexpectedly with children, but not all.
Ill have to post a pic but we are adding three red foot tortoises to our family today because the owners are pregnant. Why do 50% of marriages end up in divorce?
Good point.
as far as lack of time.....tortoises done really need a lot of attention but you are right, she found them a great great home and was sincerely upset. |
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 Jr. Detective
Location: Beggs, OK | Have you ever researched why a pregnant woman shouldn't be around a tortoise?
Correction: Salmonella is very dangerous to unborn babies.
Edited by rachellyn80 2013-11-20 9:50 AM
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 Extreme Veteran
Posts: 495
Location: Washington | Drive me nuts as well. No matter the animal, cat, dog, horse. I found out I was pregnant with our oldest 2 weeks after buying this guy. He was a 4 yr old, green broke, stud colt. I cried, he was my "dream" horse and I finally had him, after waiting two years, and had to make the tough choice of whether to keep or sell him. I dont think he would have minded sitting for another year, but I rode him through my pregancy, with the help of my husband. He has claimed our daughter, who is now 5, as his. She was riding him by herself at 2 1/2 years old and does everything with him now.
I hate when people say they dont want them to sit, I think it's an excuse. A horse needs a break now and again, it's only a few months, and if you want it to work, you will make it work.
 
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Hungarian Midget Woman
Location: Midwest | They are cute! I love turtles. |
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Nut Case Expert
Posts: 9305
Location: Tulsa, Ok | DD2012 - 2013-11-20 9:09 AM missroselee - 2013-11-20 9:03 AM Why do so many people toss their pets away just because they are having a kid???
i guess I'm dumb when it comes to that. I see pets as a commitment no matter what. I understand some people have no other option and there are some pets that become dangerous unexpectedly with children, but not all.
Ill have to post a pic but we are adding three red foot tortoises to our family today because the owners are pregnant. Why do 50% of marriages end up in divorce?
Because humans are a lot harder to get along with than dogs, cats, horses, etc.
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Hungarian Midget Woman
Location: Midwest | rachellyn80 - 2013-11-20 9:27 AM Have you ever researched why a pregnant woman shouldn't be around a tortoise?
Toxoplasmosis is very dangerous to unborn babies.
Toxoplasmosis is carried by cats... and in reality, not much of a danger if you already have lived with a cat for some time. Just wash your hands and be careful/sanitary.
I think you mean Salmonella with a turtle.....also why pregnant women are asked not to handle raw meat. |
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| Well I will be the bad one and admit I got rid of my dog after I had my daughter.
First reason was time..why should my dog suffer when I no longer had time to play with him and bond with him like before...Second reason was after my daughter was about a week old he decided to start pooping and peeing in her room on her rug...we tried to keep her door shut when she wasn't in there, but it just didn't work out.
She is now 3 and we still do not have any inside or small pets because we just do not have the time.
I think as long as you are able to find them a good home then you should not be judged for doing so...it's a lot easier to say what you think you would or wouldn't do if you have never been throuh it. JMO |
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Location: Never in one place long | I've often wondered the same thing, I see animals as no different than children as far as commitments. People are so weird, before they even HAVE the child they'll get rid of their animals.... this makes NO sense, how do they know it won't work... it's almost just an easy excuse...oh sorry we're having a baby so we have to get rid of all our pets.
The ONLY way I could see this acceptable is if the animal was a huge danger to the child and NOT because the child was being careless and irritating the animal. If you absolutely HAD to rehome an animal because of your child I would NEVER EVER take them to a shelter where you have no idea if they will make it out alive, find a relative or family member who would give them a home and never give them to someone you don't know for free... you are asking for cruelty to the animal.
Very sad... I cannot see myself ever getting rid of an animal because of a child unless there was a very good reason... |
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Jr. Detective
Location: Beggs, OK | barrelracr131 - 2013-11-20 9:40 AM rachellyn80 - 2013-11-20 9:27 AM Have you ever researched why a pregnant woman shouldn't be around a tortoise?
Toxoplasmosis is very dangerous to unborn babies. Toxoplasmosis is carried by cats... and in reality, not much of a danger if you already have lived with a cat for some time. Just wash your hands and be careful/sanitary.
I think you mean Salmonella with a turtle.....also why pregnant women are asked not to handle raw meat.
Lol, I'm pregnant and got my thoughts confused...I was thinking about cats as well. Although rare, it's simply not an acceptable risk for me.
http://suite101.com/a/pets-to-avoid-when-pregnant-a213167 |
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Damn Yankee
Posts: 12390
Location: Somewhere between raising hell and Amazing Grace | rachellyn80 - 2013-11-20 10:48 AM
barrelracr131 - 2013-11-20 9:40 AM rachellyn80 - 2013-11-20 9:27 AM Have you ever researched why a pregnant woman shouldn't be around a tortoise?
Toxoplasmosis is very dangerous to unborn babies. Toxoplasmosis is carried by cats... and in reality, not much of a danger if you already have lived with a cat for some time. Just wash your hands and be careful/sanitary.
I think you mean Salmonella with a turtle.....also why pregnant women are asked not to handle raw meat.
What's wrong with letting your spouse or a friend help care for them?? |
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Damn Yankee
Posts: 12390
Location: Somewhere between raising hell and Amazing Grace | I'm not saying they don't pose a danger. But if that's the case then if I get pregnant I should get ride of my English mastiffs.....they might trip me.....and my horses.....they might kick me.....
my my point is there are other options. My tortoises are a part of my family and if I got pregnant and couldn't touch them, then in would expect my husband to help out, and he would. I wouldn't just dump them. |
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 World 4D Champ
Posts: 28264
Location: PA | missroselee - 2013-11-20 10:50 AM rachellyn80 - 2013-11-20 10:48 AM barrelracr131 - 2013-11-20 9:40 AM rachellyn80 - 2013-11-20 9:27 AM Have you ever researched why a pregnant woman shouldn't be around a tortoise?
Toxoplasmosis is very dangerous to unborn babies. Toxoplasmosis is carried by cats... and in reality, not much of a danger if you already have lived with a cat for some time. Just wash your hands and be careful/sanitary.
I think you mean Salmonella with a turtle.....also why pregnant women are asked not to handle raw meat. What's wrong with letting your spouse or a friend help care for them??
I have 2 cats, and when I was pregnant, my husband took care of them for me. Never had any issues, and my son is 2 years old now. I wasn't going to get rid of them when there was another solution out there. |
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Damn Yankee
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Location: Somewhere between raising hell and Amazing Grace | addysmom821 - 2013-11-20 10:45 AM Well I will be the bad one and admit I got rid of my dog after I had my daughter. First reason was time..why should my dog suffer when I no longer had time to play with him and bond with him like before...Second reason was after my daughter was about a week old he decided to start pooping and peeing in her room on her rug...we tried to keep her door shut when she wasn't in there, but it just didn't work out. She is now 3 and we still do not have any inside or small pets because we just do not have the time. I think as long as you are able to find them a good home then you should not be judged for doing so...it's a lot easier to say what you think you would or wouldn't do if you have never been throuh it. JMO
I respect your opinion and will never judge, but it still makes me owner sometimes. I think my dogs would rather get less attention then ever have to live elsewhere. But I do understand every situation is unique and different for sure |
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| cowgalsissy - 2013-11-20 9:14 AM
Time. Babies take up so much time and im sure turtles need a similar amount so she is doing right by both by finding them a good home.
Exactly..babies take up all your time. I kicked my inside cat outside 5 months after my daughter was born. He's isn't declawed so he is doing great. But there was no way I was cleaning a little box and cleaning up hair anymore! Animals come first to some people but my daughter is first to me. |
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 Over Informed
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Location: West Tennessee | missroselee - 2013-11-20 9:55 AM
I'm not saying they don't pose a danger. But if that's the case then if I get pregnant I should get ride of my English mastiffs.....they might trip me.....and my horses.....they might kick me.....
my my point is there are other options. My tortoises are a part of my family and if I got pregnant and couldn't touch them, then in would expect my husband to help out, and he would. I wouldn't just dump them.
1. You're assuming the husband wanted to take care of them?
2. They really didn't toss them -- they found another good home. A responsible decision that must not have been easy.
3. Tossing would be dumping them in a field or stream to fend for themselves.
I know it sounds cruel, but my child (future child) would come first, period for me. That being said, I didn't get rid of my cat but you better bet that my MIL pressured me to do just that -- in our case, my husband simply asked the Dr & shut his mother up pretty quick. However, if our cat had showed dangerous behavior after our little girl was here, I would of rehomed her, hard as that would of been.
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Damn Yankee
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Location: Somewhere between raising hell and Amazing Grace | dme0324 - 2013-11-20 11:05 AM missroselee - 2013-11-20 9:55 AM I'm not saying they don't pose a danger. But if that's the case then if I get pregnant I should get ride of my English mastiffs.....they might trip me.....and my horses.....they might kick me.....
my my point is there are other options. My tortoises are a part of my family and if I got pregnant and couldn't touch them, then in would expect my husband to help out, and he would. I wouldn't just dump them. 1. You're assuming the husband wanted to take care of them? 2. They really didn't toss them -- they found another good home. A responsible decision that must not have been easy. 3. Tossing would be dumping them in a field or stream to fend for themselves. I know it sounds cruel, but my child (future child ) would come first, period for me. That being said, I didn't get rid of my cat but you better bet that my MIL pressured me to do just that -- in our case, my husband simply asked the Dr & shut his mother up pretty quick. However, if our cat had showed dangerous behavior after our little girl was here, I would of rehomed her, hard as that would of been.
I guess I'm just an a** then and I'm really sorry I posted at all........again...... |
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Posts: 1066
| I have always wondered this same thing, but now I am pregnant, and faced with this issue myself, Im worrying. My horses wont be a problem, my cat wont be an issue, but I am really not sure if our Blue Heeler can be trusted with an infant.
Hubby and I have talked a lot about this in the past couple weeks. Radar is cool with kids 3 & up- that we know, but we're really not sure how he'll be with an infant rolling around on the floor. We are on the fence on weather we wait until baby is here and see how he is, or if its worth taking that risk. Hubby is picturing worse case scenario where the dog takes a chunk out of our kid's face, and says he could never forgive himself if that happened (Im really not sure I could either), but on the other hand we've had the dog almost 5 years, he's well trained, we just dont really trust him with cats, or other small animals as he is a heeler, and has very strong heeler instincts so really not sure where to go from here.
I love Radar, and he usually stays in the porch, but what if? That's the big question....
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 Underestimated Underdog
Posts: 3971
Location: Minnesota | missroselee - 2013-11-20 10:17 AM dme0324 - 2013-11-20 11:05 AM missroselee - 2013-11-20 9:55 AM I'm not saying they don't pose a danger. But if that's the case then if I get pregnant I should get ride of my English mastiffs.....they might trip me.....and my horses.....they might kick me.....
my my point is there are other options. My tortoises are a part of my family and if I got pregnant and couldn't touch them, then in would expect my husband to help out, and he would. I wouldn't just dump them. 1. You're assuming the husband wanted to take care of them? 2. They really didn't toss them -- they found another good home. A responsible decision that must not have been easy. 3. Tossing would be dumping them in a field or stream to fend for themselves. I know it sounds cruel, but my child (future child ) would come first, period for me. That being said, I didn't get rid of my cat but you better bet that my MIL pressured me to do just that -- in our case, my husband simply asked the Dr & shut his mother up pretty quick. However, if our cat had showed dangerous behavior after our little girl was here, I would of rehomed her, hard as that would of been.
I wouldn't be sorry for your thread, I completely agree with you. Animals are not disposable. I do think there is a right time to find an animal a home but those times are few and far between. The animals I have will stay with me until their end, they won't leave. |
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 Night Watchman
Posts: 5516
Location: Central Montana | Good question. I'll be an a$$ too then. I'll come right out and say I judge people for doing it and I think a lot less of them for doing it. If you are planning on having kids and not keeping your pets or worry that about your pets around your kids why even get the pet to begin with. |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 1066
| GoinJettin - 2013-11-20 9:28 AM Good question. I'll be an a$$ too then. I'll come right out and say I judge people for doing it and I think a lot less of them for doing it. If you are planning on having kids and not keeping your pets or worry that about your pets around your kids why even get the pet to begin with.
With my old girl who I had for 16 years I wouldn't have dreamed of getting rid of her. She was as mellow and lovable as you could ever hope a dog would be. Despite never having been around kids my neice and nephew could crawl all over her, feed her cheerios out of their hands (from the time they could figure out how to), pull on her ears- whatever- and we never worried for 2 seconds. She loved the attention, and soaked it up like the sweet old grandma she was.
With my current dog I just dont have that same level of trust with him despite doing everything exactly the same. He has been well socialized and has had the same rules from day one... as I mentioned before- he *might* be ok with our newborn... but what if he's not? Do I bet my kid's health on it? He KNOWS not to be snappy or pushy when we're around, but what if baby is left unattended for 2 seconds while I go to my room to put a sweater on? I really dont know... I really want to keep him, but this whole ordeal has us pretty stressed over what to do. Do I move the dog outside after having been an inside dog his whole life? Is it more fair to drasically change his life at our place, than find him a new home where he will be equally as loved? These are all questions Im asking myself... |
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 Accident Prone
Posts: 22277
Location: 100 miles from Nowhere, AR | I had a nasty case of salmonella when I was pregnant with my son from handling a smoked shin bone to give to my dog when we were having a weenie roast, and didn't think to wash my hands. My dog was even sicker than I was.
We did re-home our Anatolian when our son was almost 2. She had started growling at him if he entered the room with her--she was corrected for this, and they were always supervised, so at first we didn't think about finding her a new home and fully intended to work through it. Until she almost killed my older German shepherd one day with me standing right beside them. I called my husband in tears and said I'm done, she has got to leave. We kept her in the yard for the 6 weeks it took to find her a new place through the breed rescue, and then flew her to GA ourselves. I hate that we had to do that, but my child had to come first, not to mention my love for and responsibility to my other dog, and I really feel like she kind of made her own bed there. We found out during the placement process that her breeder was known to produce unstable dogs, and they had rehomed and euthanized quite a few that came from him. |
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Expert
Posts: 1488
| missroselee - 2013-11-20 10:17 AM
dme0324 - 2013-11-20 11:05 AM missroselee - 2013-11-20 9:55 AM I'm not saying they don't pose a danger. But if that's the case then if I get pregnant I should get ride of my English mastiffs.....they might trip me.....and my horses.....they might kick me.....
my my point is there are other options. My tortoises are a part of my family and if I got pregnant and couldn't touch them, then in would expect my husband to help out, and he would. I wouldn't just dump them. 1. You're assuming the husband wanted to take care of them? 2. They really didn't toss them -- they found another good home. A responsible decision that must not have been easy. 3. Tossing would be dumping them in a field or stream to fend for themselves. I know it sounds cruel, but my child (future child ) would come first, period for me. That being said, I didn't get rid of my cat but you better bet that my MIL pressured me to do just that -- in our case, my husband simply asked the Dr & shut his mother up pretty quick. However, if our cat had showed dangerous behavior after our little girl was here, I would of rehomed her, hard as that would of been.
You're not an azz at all
You are 100% correct, in for a penny, in for a pound.
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 Expert
Posts: 1218
Location: Great NW | missroselee - 2013-11-20 8:17 AM dme0324 - 2013-11-20 11:05 AM missroselee - 2013-11-20 9:55 AM I'm not saying they don't pose a danger. But if that's the case then if I get pregnant I should get ride of my English mastiffs.....they might trip me.....and my horses.....they might kick me.....
my my point is there are other options. My tortoises are a part of my family and if I got pregnant and couldn't touch them, then in would expect my husband to help out, and he would. I wouldn't just dump them. 1. You're assuming the husband wanted to take care of them? 2. They really didn't toss them -- they found another good home. A responsible decision that must not have been easy. 3. Tossing would be dumping them in a field or stream to fend for themselves. I know it sounds cruel, but my child (future child ) would come first, period for me. That being said, I didn't get rid of my cat but you better bet that my MIL pressured me to do just that -- in our case, my husband simply asked the Dr & shut his mother up pretty quick. However, if our cat had showed dangerous behavior after our little girl was here, I would of rehomed her, hard as that would of been.
Missroselee ~ I am with you. I have two kids and took care of 8 horses, 3 dogs and a few cats and helped to take care of the cows thru both pregnancy's. I also cooked dinner with meat every night. so does that make me a bad person. NO - I made sure to wash counters, and hands all the time. Too much work - no - I love them they are part of my family and I would never dream of pushing them aside. afterall - they make plastic gloves, masks and Sanitizers don't they? |
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 Ima Fickle Fan
Posts: 3547
Location: Texas | I try not to judge people who do this, but it's hard. I don't keep animals that are dangerous and that would be the only reason I would not keep one.
However, with the turtles, I totally understand. With pregnant women and little kids, turtles can pack around Salmonella and that IS a concern. To most adults, this isn't a problem. But kids love to touch stuff and immediately shove fingers in their mouths. Then again, we don't have any inside pets because my husband and kiddo are enough to clean up after.
Unless behavioral issues arise in an animal after a baby is born, I don't think it's responsible to rehome animals. I think it really comes down to the people feel overwhelmed and getting rid of a pet can eliminate some stress. But if the pet is pooping/peeing places it shouldn't or becoming aggressive, or something else, I wouldn't hesitate to rehome it.
At the end of the day, you can rehome a pet but you can't rehome a kid. You can also stick an animal in the back yard and no one says anything. Do that with a kid and you could get turned in for child abuse.
Edited by aggiejudger 2013-11-20 10:57 AM
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Nut Case Expert
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Location: Tulsa, Ok | You know there is a huge difference between reponsibly re-homing a pet and just throwing them away. |
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Expert
Posts: 1543
Location: MI | I am pregnant with our 4th, and we haven't gotten rid of any because of the pregnancies or kids.
BUT, I will not judge anyone who does, because they know their situation, their tolerances, and their environment much better than I, an outsider, does. And in those cases, hopefully they find an awesome home and rehome the animal responsibly.
When we had our first, I was worried about our Catahoula, Banks with her. Adalynn grew up with Banks and Rocky, an Aussie, and my dad still thinks it's why she was one of the most laid back babies ever.  Wish that stuck around! But anyway, Banks was awesome with her until she was crawling. Even then, he was ok and watched carefully, but one day she bit him on the nose and he nipped back at her, causing an ER visit with glue to a small skin tear on her forehead. I in NO WAY blame him, my husband and I were right there and he was just telling her no. But, since then he's growled at the kids some and it would obviously be stupid to put him or the kids in the same position.
So we have an very large outdoor run that comes inside, and Banks and Rocky are only allowed in a part of our house, generally separated from the kids. We love Banks and Rocky, Trav still takes them to work with him and they get out and attention, but they aren't allowed around the kids too often - and Banks likes it better that way.
So anyway, would Banks have a better life with someone else? I don't know, but we do love him a ton, just don't trust him fully around the kids. And he has a good life, he LOVES being outside, and I think he's happy. I'm not a dog, nor an animal communicator, but I am his momma and that's how it's going to stay. My point, we worked around it. It really isn't Banks fault that he doesn't love and dote on the kids at all. It was our decision to have kids, and animals, and I do think that that the kids benefit from the animals, even in this situation. |
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Ima Fickle Fan
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Location: Texas | SC Wrangler - 2013-11-20 10:58 AM
You know there is a huge difference between reponsibly re-homing a pet and just throwing them away.
Good point. Dumping animals is not acceptable.
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 393
| Tys-ol-lady - 2013-11-20 9:20 AM
I have always wondered this same thing, but now I am pregnant, and faced with this issue myself, Im worrying. My horses wont be a problem, my cat wont be an issue, but I am really not sure if our Blue Heeler can be trusted with an infant.
Hubby and I have talked a lot about this in the past couple weeks. Radar is cool with kids 3 & up- that we know, but we're really not sure how he'll be with an infant rolling around on the floor. We are on the fence on weather we wait until baby is here and see how he is, or if its worth taking that risk. Hubby is picturing worse case scenario where the dog takes a chunk out of our kid's face, and says he could never forgive himself if that happened (Im really not sure I could either), but on the other hand we've had the dog almost 5 years, he's well trained, we just dont really trust him with cats, or other small animals as he is a heeler, and has very strong heeler instincts so really not sure where to go from here.
I love Radar, and he usually stays in the porch, but what if? That's the big question....
I would wait until you have the baby to make up your mind!! Heelers are very loyal and he may suprise you with the baby! Our heeler is almost 10 and our son is 5, and they are rarely without each other. now. He was awesome with him as a baby. If they have any obedience or manners I can't foresee it being an issue. At least it wasn't for us. Our heeler will kill any cat, mouse, gopher, etc in sight. But he super gentle and understanding of our son. |
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| I will admit to reforming a dog when we had our first. This dog could not be taken off leash, if you did she was gone for days, was a hound cross and missed to her nose. She needed ran miles and miles every day. My husband could not do it he was to busy with The farm and a full time job and what little time head he wanted to spend with me or the baby when she came. The dog spent most of her day tied up for in an out door kennel, she was miserable and it broke my heart. I gave her to a marathon runner for a trading buddy and that dog has never been happier. I cried when she left but I get a Christmas card from her every year. It was hard for me to let her go and say I was not enfough but the best thing For honey. Now I pick our pets to better suit us.. every thing is forever now, it's a big change to have a baby and some pets truly deserve better. |
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 Firecracker Dog Lover
Posts: 3175
| Tys-ol-lady - 2013-11-20 8:20 AM
I have always wondered this same thing, but now I am pregnant, and faced with this issue myself, Im worrying. My horses wont be a problem, my cat wont be an issue, but I am really not sure if our Blue Heeler can be trusted with an infant.
Hubby and I have talked a lot about this in the past couple weeks. Radar is cool with kids 3 & up- that we know, but we're really not sure how he'll be with an infant rolling around on the floor. We are on the fence on weather we wait until baby is here and see how he is, or if its worth taking that risk. Hubby is picturing worse case scenario where the dog takes a chunk out of our kid's face, and says he could never forgive himself if that happened (Im really not sure I could either), but on the other hand we've had the dog almost 5 years, he's well trained, we just dont really trust him with cats, or other small animals as he is a heeler, and has very strong heeler instincts so really not sure where to go from here.
I love Radar, and he usually stays in the porch, but what if? That's the big question....
Had a red heeler (age 4) when my son was born. Introduced them as soon as we got home and that was that. Never a problem, ever. |
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 Ms. Potato Head
Posts: 9162
Location: BFE, Idaho | When I had my daughter we had an older I will not say what kind cross, and a purebred border collie. The first about 8 the second about 9 years old. And an outside tough as nails tom cat. Plus horses/cows/pigs and a goat.
All stayed. We did end up putting the collie down when she started walking, he attacked her and not herding instinct if the other dog had not taken him down I do not know what would have happened. We did not rehome him it was best to put him to sleep at that age he was set and after that could never be trusted.
The cross we were scared of acted like I had her for him, he took her over, every picture inside and out until we lost him to a burglery when she was 4 has him in it. She learned to walk hanging on his collar, she learned the words, No and Stay through him, and he guarded her every move 24/7.
And our old scraggly tom cat even let himself wear hats, and makeup as he lay in the sun and never moved a muscle.
I would never have gotten rid of them before hand though ever.
And I do not understand the time factor, kids are not that much time when they are little it is when they start cruising that watch out, and a good dog helps let you know where they ran off to.!! |
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 Neat Freak
Posts: 11216
Location: Wonderful Wyoming | aggiejudger - 2013-11-20 10:03 AM SC Wrangler - 2013-11-20 10:58 AM You know there is a huge difference between reponsibly re-homing a pet and just throwing them away. Good point. Dumping animals is not acceptable.
This is a good statement. If they are found loving homes that are in the best interest of the pet (like your new torties) then I don't have a problem with it.
When we moved to TX, we drug along a horse, a dog and 2 cats. People thought we were nuts, why didn't we just get new cats when we got there? Well, I love these cats. I kept them with the birth of my first son, one kitty died, but have the female with the birth of my 2nd son. We made some different arrangements so they weren't sleeping with the babies and my old aggressive heeler was kept outside in the yard or in a kennel at night so my son wouldn't get bit. He passed away before the 2nd baby was born.
I have a red border collie that I feel no attachment to, but we got him and he will stay until he dies. He's a good dog and I like him, but if he died (pain free) tomorrow, it would be a relief. He chases livestock so must be chained when he isn't out roaming with us and feeding cows. |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 838
Location: Georgia | I think you are absolutely right, Missroselee. I think a lot of the problem with people rehoming pets/animals when they become pregnant is because the mother doesn't have someone responsible enough to help out (ie...spouse, parent, relative, what have you). I would much rehome an animal if I couldn't take care of it to the best of my ability rather than to let it suffer or not get the appropriate amount of attention and affection it needs. I love my animals and wouldn't send them anywhere unless they posed an issue with my child. |
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 Extreme Veteran
Posts: 365
| I agree with you. My horse is doing nothing, I doubt he cares he's getting several months off. Might be seen as a waste to some as he is a nice horse but I have no reason to sell him. The dogs I do worry about, my jack russel I believe will be fine she's weird about people but oddly loves baby things, the mixed breed of who knows what idk she's rough and not the brightest. It's not like I'll ever leave my son unsupervised with the animals though, I can't rehome the dogs nobody else would put up with them. |
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 Elite Veteran
Posts: 602
| I had to let my gelding sit for 8 months but It didnt hurt his performance level when i started riding him again. My dogs spent the first week outside, they were a little to much to handle with a newborn. My lab can still get out of control with my daughter so he has to stay on his bed if he is in the house. Maybe being pregnant and owning horses/pets can be overhelming for some folks, so they decide to let them go. Its sad.......... |
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 Thread Killer
Posts: 7543
| I think rehoming is a lot different than dumping.
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 Chicken Chick
Posts: 3562
Location: Texas | I have had people tell me that since I am pregnant and all they want my Doberman. I've been given 100 different reasons of why I should give them my dog, and all of them are bull. I think they just make crap up on their way over here hoping that I will believe them. My dogs and cats aren't going anywhere.
I have also been told that I need to get rid of my ducks because I don't have time for them. They are ducks, they aren't tame ducks. All they care about is food, water, bugs, and a place to swim. They also told me that I should take them and let them loose at our local park. My ducks aren't bothering anybody. |
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 Transplant Okie
Posts: 1206
Location: Always on call..... | missroselee - 2013-11-20 9:24 AM
OMG - They are pretty! I love them. You have totally convinced me to go with a tortoise instead of turtles. You can send one or two to Oklahoma if you want!
As far as people giving up pets - I am kind of judgemental about that, but I did have to re-home my turtles (red ear sliders) when I went back to medical school. My available time, money and circumstances changed to where I couldn't take good care of them anymore. So even though I don't have kids I can understand how your priorities can change.
It still makes me angry when they just dump them at shelters though.
Sidenote - I'll have to pick your brain about which tortoise species you recommend for a pet sometime. |
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Damn Yankee
Posts: 12390
Location: Somewhere between raising hell and Amazing Grace | I'm not judging people. Really I'm not. But just like every other human being on this planet, and along with even those judging me right now, I have my moments when I have to vent. Plain and simple.
This gal was obviously upset over this. I don't know exactly what her reasons were. Maybe money, maybe lack of support from her spouse. And I shouldn't make it sound like I'm picking on her. It was a snowball effect because in the last few months we have come across tons of situations like this. I know every story is different and everyone has a reason, but I just wanted to vent a lil. And it helps hearing from people in those situations where they had no choice..... |
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Damn Yankee
Posts: 12390
Location: Somewhere between raising hell and Amazing Grace | Dr. J - 2013-11-20 2:42 PM missroselee - 2013-11-20 9:24 AM OMG - They are pretty! I love them. You have totally convinced me to go with a tortoise instead of turtles. You can send one or two to Oklahoma if you want!
As far as people giving up pets - I am kind of judgemental about that, but I did have to re-home my turtles (red ear sliders) when I went back to medical school. My available time, money and circumstances changed to where I couldn't take good care of them anymore. So even though I don't have kids I can understand how your priorities can change.
It still makes me angry when they just dump them at shelters though.
Sidenote - I'll have to pick your brain about which tortoise species you recommend for a pet sometime.
Red footed :) I always recommend those first. Very hard, easy to care for, and extremely sociable. |
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Transplant Okie
Posts: 1206
Location: Always on call..... | missroselee - 2013-11-20 1:45 PM Dr. J - 2013-11-20 2:42 PM missroselee - 2013-11-20 9:24 AM OMG - They are pretty! I love them. You have totally convinced me to go with a tortoise instead of turtles. You can send one or two to Oklahoma if you want!
As far as people giving up pets - I am kind of judgemental about that, but I did have to re-home my turtles (red ear sliders) when I went back to medical school. My available time, money and circumstances changed to where I couldn't take good care of them anymore. So even though I don't have kids I can understand how your priorities can change.
It still makes me angry when they just dump them at shelters though.
Sidenote - I'll have to pick your brain about which tortoise species you recommend for a pet sometime.
Like the ones you just got? Do they get very big?
I'll definitely do a lot of research again about tortoises before I get one. I did that with my sliders and gave them great care. But one thing I never thought about was the increasing cost of their tank as they got bigger. Huge aquariums are really expensive to maintain, and when I went back to medical school I just couldn't do it anymore. Plus all the time it took to keep their tank clean and not smelly (even with two filters running, sliders are kinda dirty! LOL). I had them 4 years and had to upgrade to bigger tanks every year. |
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Over Informed
Posts: 5372
Location: West Tennessee | SC Wrangler - 2013-11-20 10:58 AM You know there is a huge difference between reponsibly re-homing a pet and just throwing them away.
That's all I was really trying to say |
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Damn Yankee
Posts: 12390
Location: Somewhere between raising hell and Amazing Grace | Dr. J - 2013-11-20 2:55 PM missroselee - 2013-11-20 1:45 PM Dr. J - 2013-11-20 2:42 PM missroselee - 2013-11-20 9:24 AM OMG - They are pretty! I love them. You have totally convinced me to go with a tortoise instead of turtles. You can send one or two to Oklahoma if you want!
As far as people giving up pets - I am kind of judgemental about that, but I did have to re-home my turtles (red ear sliders) when I went back to medical school. My available time, money and circumstances changed to where I couldn't take good care of them anymore. So even though I don't have kids I can understand how your priorities can change.
It still makes me angry when they just dump them at shelters though.
Sidenote - I'll have to pick your brain about which tortoise species you recommend for a pet sometime.
I'll definitely do a lot of research again about tortoises before I get one. I did that with my sliders and gave them great care. But one thing I never thought about was the increasing cost of their tank as they got bigger. Huge aquariums are really expensive to maintain, and when I went back to medical school I just couldn't do it anymore. Plus all the time it took to keep their tank clean and not smelly (even with two filters running, sliders are kinda dirty! LOL). I had them 4 years and had to upgrade to bigger tanks every year.
Mature ones will get about 20 inches or so. We build all our habitats so its fairly cheap. And since tortoises are land and now water reptiles, they are much easier to maintain.
And yes, the three I just got, along with Fred that I already have, are all red foots. |
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Over Informed
Posts: 5372
Location: West Tennessee | missroselee - 2013-11-20 1:45 PM I'm not judging people. Really I'm not. But just like every other human being on this planet, and along with even those judging me right now, I have my moments when I have to vent. Plain and simple.
This gal was obviously upset over this. I don't know exactly what her reasons were. Maybe money, maybe lack of support from her spouse. And I shouldn't make it sound like I'm picking on her. It was a snowball effect because in the last few months we have come across tons of situations like this. I know every story is different and everyone has a reason, but I just wanted to vent a lil. And it helps hearing from people in those situations where they had no choice.....
I didn't mean to be judging you -- as I said, no way my cat was going any where unless she became a problem -- I also understand the need to vent/question sometimes.
What kills me worse, is the people I've known that do this over, over and over again! Get a pet, oh it's not what I thought -- re-home it & get another, repeatedly. Those are the ones that make me ill & sad. |
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Damn Yankee
Posts: 12390
Location: Somewhere between raising hell and Amazing Grace | dme0324 - 2013-11-20 2:58 PM SC Wrangler - 2013-11-20 10:58 AM You know there is a huge difference between reponsibly re-homing a pet and just throwing them away. That's all I was really trying to say
I get that. I really do. |
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Damn Yankee
Posts: 12390
Location: Somewhere between raising hell and Amazing Grace | dme0324 - 2013-11-20 3:04 PM missroselee - 2013-11-20 1:45 PM I'm not judging people. Really I'm not. But just like every other human being on this planet, and along with even those judging me right now, I have my moments when I have to vent. Plain and simple.
This gal was obviously upset over this. I don't know exactly what her reasons were. Maybe money, maybe lack of support from her spouse. And I shouldn't make it sound like I'm picking on her. It was a snowball effect because in the last few months we have come across tons of situations like this. I know every story is different and everyone has a reason, but I just wanted to vent a lil. And it helps hearing from people in those situations where they had no choice..... I didn't mean to be judging you -- as I said, no way my cat was going any where unless she became a problem -- I also understand the need to vent/question sometimes.
What kills me worse, is the people I've known that do this over, over and over again! Get a pet, oh it's not what I thought -- re-home it & get another, repeatedly. Those are the ones that make me ill & sad.
You weren't, I'm just sensitive when it comes to pets is all.
And you are dead on, there are so many people that toss pets aside when they aren't pregnant or have a good reason. I know someone who gets a new dog every other month because several have died or just run off. |
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Expert
Posts: 1432
Location: Never in one place long | But at least you came up with a solution to being able to KEEP the cat! |
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Expert
Posts: 1432
Location: Never in one place long | Another reason why I get so upset when people get rid of their animals is that when they take them to a shelter.... let's say they BOUGHT the dog.... so they've fueled demand for DOGS by a breeder... then they don't want it anymore and dump it at the shelter 6mos. later because they never THOUGHT about what they would do with it if they had a baby.... this is a cycle and this is ONE REASON why so many dogs don't have homes!! Because now it's not a cute little puppy and people aren't as likely to adopt it... I would say people shouldn't BUY a dog and create demand if they don't have the foresight to see what will become of it should they have a baby.... |
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 1066
| SassyPirate - 2013-11-20 10:08 AM Tys-ol-lady - 2013-11-20 9:20 AM
I have always wondered this same thing, but now I am pregnant, and faced with this issue myself, Im worrying. My horses wont be a problem, my cat wont be an issue, but I am really not sure if our Blue Heeler can be trusted with an infant.
Hubby and I have talked a lot about this in the past couple weeks. Radar is cool with kids 3 & up- that we know, but we're really not sure how he'll be with an infant rolling around on the floor. We are on the fence on weather we wait until baby is here and see how he is, or if its worth taking that risk. Hubby is picturing worse case scenario where the dog takes a chunk out of our kid's face, and says he could never forgive himself if that happened (Im really not sure I could either), but on the other hand we've had the dog almost 5 years, he's well trained, we just dont really trust him with cats, or other small animals as he is a heeler, and has very strong heeler instincts so really not sure where to go from here.
I love Radar, and he usually stays in the porch, but what if? That's the big question....
I really think we'll wait until baby is here and see what happens. It will either go very well, or very bad right from the get go is my guess... cross your fingers for us! |
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 Expert
Posts: 1261
| I am also pregnant, 27 weeks and I do have one of my horses for sale. I have three horses and work full time we were not planning to have a baby and I was in the process of training my young horse to be my back up barrel horse when I found out. Hes an amazing horse but I restarted him last year, he is young and he has bucked here and there so I dont feel comfortable riding him till after the baby. Originally I had hoped to lease him out and had several people at my barn saying they wanted to use him for this or that but months later no one is using him for anything and though I longe, pony and long line him as well as turn him out he is ****ed that hes not being ridden and worked and though the baby will be here shortly being as I will have my hands full with a new born, still working full time and my other horse who I hope to be competing on shortly after the baby arrives I really dont think I am going to have the time he deserves any time soon. If I am being selfish I would hold on to him because he is an amazing horse and I love him but for his sake I am offering him for sale because he deserves someone who has the time right now to take him to his potential and make him happy. If the right person doesnt come along I will keep him because the wrong fit isnt fair to him either. |
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 A Somebody to Everybody
Posts: 41354
Location: Under The Big Sky Of Texas | missroselee - 2013-11-20 9:24 AM
Awwww how darn cute  ...... When I die I hope I can come back as a Tortoise and come live with you  All the animals that I had when I got pregnant with my boys stayed with me till they died of old age, I dont get rid of any of my animals, they are here for life with this family  |
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Chicken Chick
Posts: 3562
Location: Texas | Tys-ol-lady - 2013-11-20 2:51 PM SassyPirate - 2013-11-20 10:08 AM Tys-ol-lady - 2013-11-20 9:20 AM
I have always wondered this same thing, but now I am pregnant, and faced with this issue myself, Im worrying. My horses wont be a problem, my cat wont be an issue, but I am really not sure if our Blue Heeler can be trusted with an infant.
Hubby and I have talked a lot about this in the past couple weeks. Radar is cool with kids 3 & up- that we know, but we're really not sure how he'll be with an infant rolling around on the floor. We are on the fence on weather we wait until baby is here and see how he is, or if its worth taking that risk. Hubby is picturing worse case scenario where the dog takes a chunk out of our kid's face, and says he could never forgive himself if that happened (Im really not sure I could either), but on the other hand we've had the dog almost 5 years, he's well trained, we just dont really trust him with cats, or other small animals as he is a heeler, and has very strong heeler instincts so really not sure where to go from here.
I love Radar, and he usually stays in the porch, but what if? That's the big question....
It really comes down to knowing your dog's warning signs and not leaving them alone together or "trusting" the dog too much. Most people get in trouble when they think their dog would never do anything, instead of just being cautious to make sure that never happens. My ex-husband's Rott bit my son on the head when he was a toddler. Not enough to really damage him but he did break the skin, and he was crawling past him about 3 feet away they said. They wouldn't watch the dog because they said "He would never hurt him.". I wouldn't ever let him around the dog because I didn't trust him at all, he was off. That day I wasn't there though.
I have a Doberman and a Boxer. Both of them can't be around young kids for different reasons, well they can but not without me right on top of them watching. The Doberman is 210% energy and I really think she doesn't have a clue how big she really is. She has been around a lot of kids and loves them, but if they are babies I keep her away completely. There is no reason for her or any other dog to be around an infant IMO. If they are toddlers and want to pet her I have her lay down beside me and they love all over her and she thinks that is the best thing ever. I do have to hold her front feet because if they stop petting she starts pawing or she starts going through her tricks at mach speeds... and man her legs are powerful. It hurts me when she paws me. I make her lay down because her favorite thing to do is run full speed through the house and/or spin circles as fast as she can and her brakes don't work well. Older kids she is fine with, they run and play together and get back up if she knocks them over and think it is fun to have her sit and stay while they get a head start to race her. Then they say she cheated when she wins lol.
The Boxer was around since before my 9 year old was born. He doesn't like ears pulled etc and I don't blame him. He will get up and walk away if a toddler gets close to him, he usually comes and lays by me. I can tell by the look on his face that he wants no part of the ear pulling, eye poking that he associates with small kids, and geeze don't touch his tail. If I tell the kid (Whether it is mine or someone else's) to leave the puppy alone and they won't I put him up. (Well if it is my kid, I just make them leave the puppy alone) He doesn't like kids messing with him period. He is content sitting beside me watching everyone with a blank stare on his face lol.
Both are great with kids that are out of the toddler stage though and respect dogs, I won't tolerate any kid (mine or someone else's) pushing my dog's buttons. If I say leave them alone I mean it, and they aren't going to crawl all over them while their parents expect my dogs to sit and take it... they are not toys.
I am expecting in March and they just won't be around the baby. We have a 2 acre back yard that we fenced with 6 foot fence just for this purpose, and baby gates will be put up to keep them out of the same room as the baby when they are inside because of the heat/cold... unless I want them in there with me.
I would rather be over protective when it comes to my kids being around my dogs, then being to lax and regretting it. |
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 I Prefer a Beard
Posts: 1944
| I love my dogs but if they were ever aggressive or mean around my boys they would be gone. I would never take a chance with my kids. However, I did not get rid of any of my animals before my kids were born. I waited to see how they were with the babies and luckily they loved them from day one. |
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