miranadobe
Posted : 1/22/2007 1:11:12 PM
Sometimes an owner in that sort of situation thinks he's actually doing the dog a favor - that you're bound to be more sucessful at finding his baby a good home than he is. Sadly, he doesn't understand the impact it puts onto you. And, sadly, I've seen people do this before, also.
If you felt as though this guy was capable of taking her back and maybe needed to be pushed into accepting his responsibility back, I know this sounds really odd and weird, but... if you really believe you will have a tough time placing her, then I'd tell him point blank.
"Look, your dog doesn't have much of a chance with anyone but you (because of x.y.z reasons including whatever distress she's experienced being away from him.) and that in the long run, it would be better for you to work out your situation than face the alternative of humane euth."
Now, that sounds incredibly revolting, I know! But, I've seen that threat of "you need to make this work - you are not doing your dog any favors by giving up" really force someone to take a look at their priorities and deal with their responsibilities if they honestly love their dogs and have just lost perspective.
BUT, again, this presumes you believe this man could really be good to her and take care of her. Obviously not going to put her into the hands of someone who will dump her again, anyway.
Whatever happens, I hope this little girl gets the best possible out of the rest of her life. Every animal deserves as much, and thank you for even taking her in - you have given her a better life just by being with you, I'm sure.