Getting rid of a dog for a baby is a sad and common situation for new families. Although I’m not in the position to create this new chapter in my life yet, I’m already starting to think about it.
Can I handle it?
Will I regret having a dog and a kid around the house?
Is it necessary to part ways with my dogs just because my priorities have changed?
Is giving up my dog for my baby make me a bad fur parent?
Does getting rid of a dog because of baby grounds for animal cruelty?
To my surprise, this subject has been on the internet for quite some time now. And in all honestly, the stories I’ve read are extremely heartbreaking.
But today, I’d like to take this opportunity to talk about it by setting aside our emotions first so we can be objective and logical towards our decision when it happens.
Valid reasons why you need to find a new home for your dog after the baby comes
Picture this: You just got home from the hospital with a newborn baby in your arms. You opened the door, and there he is, your first baby, curious and confused about what’s going on. You settled on the sofa, and your dog started to sniff your baby’s head. Your husband/partner snaps a photo.
Awwww.
Over time, things are starting to change. Unfortunately, these changes are stressing you out which makes you consider finding a new home for your dog.
1. The house has become too crowded – A spare bedroom turns into a baby room, there are toys everywhere, and it has become impossible to spare a minute for self-care.
2. Your dog is out of control – Is your dog starting to feel jealous of your baby? Has he become stubborn or too grumpy?
3. Your baby is suffering from pet allergies – It is more likely that your baby may develop pet allergies. Although allergy medications are often prescribed by pediatricians, your doctor may recommend that you need to get rid of your dog ASAP.
4. Financial troubles – I have two dogs, and there are months when. I spend an incredible amount of money on their needs ie. grooming, anti-rabies vaccine, Bravecto, etc. Two weeks ago, I bought Nanosilver because my dogs experienced a mild case of diarrhea. Imagine having your kid and your dog’s sick at the same time.
5. Your feelings toward your dog have changed – Because of the overwhelming responsibility of caring for a newborn baby and your dog at the same time, you realize that you’re starting to hate your dog to the point where you don’t love him anymore.
If you’re experiencing any of these, now is the best time for you to consider rehoming your family dog. Do not wait for the situation to get worse.
Should you visit your dog after rehoming?
In situations like this, it’s not advisable to visit your dog after rehoming. Doing so will not help him adjust to his new family. Besides, rehoming your dog means you’ve made the decision to prioritize your baby, and that decision is irrevocable.
It may sound cruel but rehoming your dog will allow him to have a better chance at life. Moreover, knowing that another family will provide him the love and care he deserves will give you peace of mind.
How do dogs feel when they are rehomed?
Dogs are very sensitive creatures, and it’s easy for them to express how they feel when something’s up. Rehoming your dog will definitely confuse him at first. But with proper attention and care from his new family, he will be able to adjust to his new environment in no time.
Is it wrong to get rid of your dog?
It is cruel to get rid of a dog without any reason at all. Or worse, leaving your dog behind without a new family to take care of his needs. If it’s inevitable, an animal shelter can assist you to find a new home for him. Moreover, rehoming is a family decision. You don’t have to go through it on your own. Talk to your family, ask for their help.
How do I get over giving my dog away?
You need to forgive yourself first. It will take days, weeks, and even months to get over losing your pet. But when you realize that your dog is going to be so much happier in his new home, this will make it easy to get rid of the guilt you’re experiencing.
The feeling of guilt is completely normal. But you have to be kind to yourself. Besides, you have a newborn baby to take care of. Instead of moping over your dog, focus your attention on your new bundle of joy.
Final thoughts
Is getting rid of a dog because of baby makes you a bad parent?
Honestly, I don’t want to be in the position where I need to choose between my dog and my baby. It’s going to be a very tough decision to make. And I don’t know how long it will take for me to get over it, in case I decide to let my dogs go.
Heartbreaking as it may be, I know that I will always love my dogs so much, and I will always put their best interest first, even if it means that I won’t be a part of their life anymore.
As one of my favorite songs goes…
“Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.”
