Oh, Aly, what a position to be put in. I wouldn't want to be in your shoes. I think that sending a few pictures and maybe a letter explaining what a great life Lolly has now would be enough to satisify the curiosity of the previous "owner". I, fortunately, have never had to live in a situation where I was in fear of an abuser. I have no idea what kind of life the previous owner had lived or what she was put through by the hands of her abuser. I do know that abusers will do anything they can to hurt you and that includes hurting things that you love and things that mean the most to you. I can't judge her over abandoning the dogs because I don't know her situation. Maybe she only had the opportunity to save herself. Maybe she was planning on going back and saving the dogs when she got strong enough. (Can you tell I try to find the good in everything?) Maybe talk to your supervisor and see if she can answer some questions for you. I would give the stuff to the supervisor to pass it along if you are comfortable with that. Again, Lolly is yours!!! The lady has no rights to her. She gave them up, regardless of the circumstances behind it. I would explain to the previous owner that you think it would be too confusing for Lolly right now and you'd let her know when you felt Lolly was strong enough (emotionally) to handle a visit. That leaves it completely up to you. This does not mean you have to let a visit happen. You might decide that Lolly is never strong enough. If she keeps hassling you through your supervisor, remind her that you said you would inform her when Lolly is ready. Stay strong, here. I know you can. We're all behind you.

[ November 01, 2001: Message edited by: Stenograsaurus ]