Desperately Seeking Advise

[TAJ]

Hugo, you have a very good point...I never even gave that any consideration. As for the background history on the rescued Dane, very little was provided, other than he was "Sweet", a 'real Gem" and great with other dogs and cats, but needed work in the obedience department. We really don't know if he was the alpha of the litter or had to fight for his food...no one knows!

We ended up bringing the Dane back to the foster home last Sunday...it was so hard and I was an emotional wreck. Even though we had him for only a week, I grew very attached to him. But I had to consider Maggie's health above anything else. it comforts me to know that he has gone to a foster home where someone will work on his "Issues". He will be well taken care of.

Maggie is starting to come around...She finally ate a full meal on Monday morning (after the dane was out of her house and her food dish put back in it's normal spot)...she is still a little unresponsive towards me, but I think she's still mad at me for bringing this beast into her house. They are creatures of habit!

We will consider rescueing another dog after Maggie passes on.

Thanks to all for your great advise and support....much appreciated! It made the decision to bring the dog back a little less difficult (I don't feel so guilty).

Have a great day!

[borzoimom]

I am sorry to hear that, but I do believe its for the best. Not only did you do what was right for you, but probably him too. Maybe he needs a no other dog type of him.

[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 (took her food away, peed on her house, knocked her out of the way all the time) She got extremely withdrawn & moody - not like her usual outgoing self.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!