Good Neighbor Policy

Dear Dog Lady,

I'm very concerned about the puppy, Blarney, that lives next door. He belongs to an elderly woman who would otherwise live alone. This dog never gets out for a walk. His leash is hooked on at the top of the stairs and there is barely enough rope for him to get all the way down the stairs. The dog is approximately one-year-old and has never been bathed, groomed or on a vet visit. I want to help this puppy, but I'm not sure of the best way to approach the situation. Please help!

Concerned Neighbor, MA

Concerned, your neighborliness is admirable. Dog Lady advises you talk to the elderly woman about Blarney’s care. Express your worry, but in a comforting tone, not in a hostile or confrontational way. First, offer to take the dog out for a walk. Or step into the breach to raise a fund from fellow residents in the building for the puppy’s vet services and grooming. See how the woman reacts to your kindness. She might be open to a helping hand. She might also be grateful. Having this puppy is probably too much for her.

You are not being a buttinskyto fear for the fate of the next-door puppy. The woman probably has the best of intentions. She needs companionship and she did the best thing by getting a dog. However, a puppy requires lots of exercise. A young dog was a poor choice.

Dog Lady feels hopeful for Blarney because the dog has such a concerned guardian angel neighbor as you. As you become more involved with the woman and the dog, you might also offer to call the MSPCA or Animal Rescue League to inquire whether there are any orphaned dogs up for adoption that would be a suitable for an elderly owner. Perhaps you could engineer a switch and rescue the puppy while finding an older, calmer dog for your neighbor.

Sure, this all sounds like a lot of volunteer work on your part, but, if your efforts are successful, the rewards will be great for all concerned -- especially Blarney who deserves so much

Posted by Dog Lady at November 18, 2004 11:12 AM