I have a former co-worker who agreed to take in a dog "temporarily" for a neighbor. She and her family became very attached to the dog (Pixie - a black lab). Over a year later -- the neighbor asked for her dog back, saying her daughter missed "her" dog. My former co-worker politely refused, saying that Pixie was behind on her veterinary care when my co-worker's family took her in, and they saw to it that she was caught up on her vaccinations, dental care and exams. The neighbor offered to reimburse for the expenses byt my former co-worker again refused saying that it was in Pixie's and her family's best interest for her to remain where she was.

(What she didn't tell her neighbor was that she felt Pixie's previous living situation was a disaster! It was a small house, she rarely got any kind of play time or romping, she was cared for "sort of" but didn't see a whole lot of affection or love. When they took her in she had some behavior problems and bad traits. Through care, love and laughter they turned her completely around. And they were not about to let her return to the previous environment. Pixie is the sweetest, funniest, best behaved dog I know. She's a big, happy goofy girl and I love to be around her because she just makes me happy!)