I feel like such a cow...

[BabyElephant]

I went to see a dog yesterday (hence my "build up" thread in health). He was bouncy but not as boisterious as they'd made out. He seemed to connect more with the rescue staff than me but I figured he'd been with them more.

So I took Poppy back today to meet him and I certainly saw a different side to him. I feel like such a cow because

a - I put Poppy through this and have now set back her training with other dogs (she was then terrified of every other dog we met on our walk today)

and

b - I got this little guy's hopes up of being his forever home...

He's already been out to one home and been brought back and I really thought after yesterday I could give him what he needs but I can't put Poppy at risk....

I feel like such a bad person right now...

[borzoimom]

Why do you feel like a bad person? I take it things were badly in the meeting, and thats why they do meetings. Using my recent experience as an example- some times rescues may not tell you everything, or in your case, maybe they didn't know about this problem. If nothing else your visit there with your baby showed them a side they didn't know was there, and more likely to get a proper placement.. If anything- if the rescue is the up and up- you helped them learn something about the dog you were going to adopt. That is a big piece of information for them. And you have the skill to help Poppy get over this.. Looks like to me it was a big help to them. And I am sure Poppy will be fine I am sure..

[BabyElephant]

I know I can sort Poppy out, I've just set back out training and that will take some time but I really wanted to help this little guy. This may sound silly but I feel like I gave him false hope. I mean he saw me twice in two days why would't he think he was coming home with me? And when they put him back in the kennel he just kept jumping and jumping and jumping up trying to see me...

[alimel]

Oh, I am sorry it did not work out, but you know it is the best thing for Poppy. Someome else will come along and find this bouncy dog will be perfect for them

[borzoimom]

I do not really think false hopes. If anyone had false hopes it was you because it sounds like it was obvious it would not work. Better to know ahead of time- trust me... ...

[whimzikal]

Don't feel badly. You gave it a shot. You can't put Poppy in that type of situation. She has to to be #1 (as she always is) You never know until you try and you tried. I doubt he thought you were anything more than a visitor. I hope he finds his forever home and you find your new family member.

[Scottie]

So sorry it did not work out, but i am sure there is a right dog for you and Poppy out there just dont give up. And i hope the other little guy finds a good home.

[BabyElephant]

I have been thinking about it all afternoon and wondering if I could make it work. I suspect the staff already know what he is like because as soon as he started to play they would stop him. It was only when I had him (and Poppy) and I let him play that I saw what he was like.

I've just taken Poppy for a walk and there were two stray dogs on the field - I almost didn't go on but then decided I would. Guess what - she was fine with them and them with her. That just reinforces that I will know when we meet the right dog.

I'm just so, so sad for him - one on one with me yesterday and today he was so loving. Yes he is boisterous but nothing that can't be worked on. Part of me wonders if it was the situation at the rescue that meant it didn't go well? I'm wondering if he (and Poppy) might be different outside of there?

[golden&hovawart]

You tried,it didn't work and It happens!.You shouldn't feel bad cos you tried and your dog's welfare is way more important so please don't feel bad.It wasn't meant to be but I'm sure you will find another one.
With her doggy apprehension,I would,maybe, go for a puppy.I truly believe you would be better of with a young one.And Poppy would have time to grow to like him before he became an adult.
Take your time because the right dog exist!.
Hug,Laurie

[FairyDogMother]

Things happen for a reason and it just wasnt' the right one for your family. That's why good meet & greet are so important with people looking on to see how it's really going with the animals in particular.
You will find your special new addition, meanwhile, you've got your baby girl who needs your attention instead of dwelling on an unsuccessful meet.

Best wishes and luck with both!