Yorkster, what a terrible position you are put in. Is the dog healthy otherwise? Does it seem to be getting fed and does it have clean water and shelter? Seems like a ridiculous life for a people loving dog like a Lab. But if he's feeding and caring for her and she has a place to go in the cold and on rainy days, I'm not sure what else you can do.

The thing that bothers me the most is the escaping. If you're like me, you don't want "blood on your hands" if something awful happens to that dog when it gets out. That's the part I always worry about.....what if it gets hit by a car???

I have to say that on the one hand, I agree with many of the opinions expressed here. It is so easy to be away from the situation and make it sound easy to just "rehome" the dog the next time it escapes. Believe me, I have first hand knowledge of this one, which I won't go into here. But, I would do everything humanly possible to talk some sense into the owner first, especially if the dog is escaping constantly. Offer up solutions, including rehoming, offer to help. Its obvious that the sweet girl is leaving to find company with someone else. Talk about Lab Rescue, and from your heart, explain why you are so concerned about the dog, not the neglect and always outdoors stuff, but concentrate on the escapes and the danger there. And have your facts and options ready, just in case you need them.

And...feel free to email me and let's talk one on one if you need to. I really do understand the dilemma. Just wish I didn't.

Logan