Desperately Seeking Advise

[cyber-sibes]

You can continue to try & let them get their pack order straight, but personally, I would opt for the emotional health of the older dog. Went through something similar here - had two dogs, one died, eventually tried to introduce another dog to my female, Star. but she is the Queen of the Universe, and the other dog started to annoy her. (took her food away, peed on her house, knocked her out of the way all the time) She got extremely withdrawn & moody - not like her usual outgoing self. She started having hot spots again & was very nervous. She refused to get into a car with him. She finally bite him in the face one day after he'd been here a month... I returned him to the shelter once he healed up. He was very successfully rehomed as an only dog. We did finally find a dog whose personality (submissive) worked well with her, and now they are inseparable. Peace is bliss. Just like with people, not everyone gets along, even though we'd like them to.

[TAJ]

I'm glad to hear you went through a similar situation with your older dog. It's a tough call. I know it has only been a week and I have tried to stay positive, hoping that they will establish their ranks in the house, but seeing Maggie in this state, I couldn't chance giving it another 2 weeks or so.

Yes...my darling Maggie is queen of her domain too, although I think she is quite intimidated by his size and strength. She too has become very moody and unresponsive, but is also very dehydrated. I'm sure this is the cause of the prolonged vomiting and diarrhea. She won't come near me until it's time to go to bed. Hopefully she will bounce back soon after the puppy is gone.

We are bringing the puppy Dane back to the rescue/foster home on Sunday. It's going to be so hard to say good-by to this big goofy fella, but it's for the best...I think! (I am so attached to him)

Wishing everyone a great Friday!

[TAJ]

Thanks to everyone for their feedback...I really appreciate your advice

have a great day

[cyber-sibes]

oh, not a problem, I didn't take it that way at all. sometimes it helps to know you arent' the only one whose had a problem. Your decision to return the dane sounds like the right call in this case. Hope Maggie bounces back soon - I'm sure she will!