Kfamr - it's not as if we don't love Jake. He really is an awesome dog. And like I said - he gets loads of attention. But still - we don't have a strong bond, and I think he will be just as happy or happier with Melissa and her kids. Jake's not bonded to anybody in our house, really - like I said, he certainly doesn't run to meet us at the door. He doesn't sleep by our bed or outside of our door, or follow me around. But when Melissa brings the kids he doesn't leave their sides for a second the entire time they're here. In fact, sometimes we have to make him leave them alone. So obviously there could be a very strong bond there.

I certainly agree that those people were aweful to bring Blink back to the shelter just because he didn't fit their personality styles. But that's an entirely different situation. Jake's going with a family member, where we'll be able to make sure he's well-cared-for. If it doesn't work out then we'll take him back.

As for looking around before bringing him into our home 7 years ago - perhaps you're right. However he was just a puppy and I knew very little about dogs. At least I didn't do what so many people do - bring him to the pound when he was in his difficult trouble-making stage and wasn't a cute puppy any more. I kept him for 7 years and cared for him very well. And I'll continue to care for him - as I told Melissa, we'll continue pay for his vet care, and bring him back if it doesn't work out.

I think it will work out very well, though - if her husband agrees.