Over the years, we have had a few animals I would consider to be duds.  Whether it is the horse that never accepted the fact that a bridle was standard wear for riding, or the cat that looked at me with disdain when I dared tell him the counter was off limits, there are just some animals that do not go well with my personality.  Though moving to a new home can be traumatic, sometimes it is the best solution when an owner and their pet do not get along well.  Learning when to let go can sometimes be in the best interest of your animal, even if the decision is hard to make.

Right now, we have two dogs in our home, along with three very small children.  One of the dogs was made to be a kid’s dog, and she is happiest when she spends time with the kids.  The other dog, while tolerant to a degree, would be better suited to a life without small kids.  She isn’t aggressive, but she doesn’t enjoy their attentions at all.  She has several other issues, like eating chickens, barking constantly at the neighbor’s cat, and getting food off the counter when no one looks.

I have wavered back and forth about what to do with her, because no amount of training is going to make her happy to be around the kids, but she is the breed I’ve wanted for a long time and the two dogs are inseparable.  I know both dogs would be very sad to be apart, and that keeps me from finding her a new home, despite how frustrated I get with her.

Sometimes, the best thing a responsible pet owner can do is learn when to let go.  While this dog is not ideal for our family, she is friendly, loving and intelligent.  I know she would make someone else a lifelong companion, leaving us free to find a dog that is better suited to a rowdy household full of small children.

What do you do when an animal just isn’t right for your family?  Do you honor your commitment and keep the animal, or do you consider it more humane to find them a home more closely matching their needs and personality?