....both of us. I just got this rescue beagle yesterday; long story short but I was too impulsive. There are some days I can barely take care of myself; thats the first factor. And when I went to walk him several times today, I found a few deer ticks on him and several walking on my pants. It HORRIFIED me. I didn't realize how affraid of woods/grass until today. And I just don't think I can do this knowing theres a good possibility I could be reinfected. Even w/ frontline, dogs can carry them in. If I got bit again? After 13 years already of this disease destroying me? The fear was palpable. Does anyone think I'm crazy? He's a wonderful dog who I know will be adopted; I just can't live w/ the possibility of lyme on top of lyme. People always say to me, "well at least you can't get it again, right?" We all know the truth. I'm in tears. Someone please talk to me.
Posted by ralphi (Member # 33834) on :
I have a giant German Shepherd and will not give him up. He's my baby.
However, I had him for a few years before I got sick.
I don't think we should live in fear (I plan to go hiking again when I'm able, just with long pants and some insect repellant!), but also this might not be the best time to take on a new responsibility.
As you said, someone will take him in, maybe someone who can devote more time/energy to loving on him! Just my 2 cents.
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
I would not be able to do it. I LOVE dogs and LONG to have one, but you just confirmed to me that I can't do it. I would totally freak if I saw ticks.
And I'm like you, just not able to keep up with a dog right now.
I support you.
Posted by nefferdun (Member # 20157) on :
If he has them on him he should be dipped at a groomer or vet to make sure they are gone. He could have fleas too. After that, he should be fine.
Animals that are adopted know that you have saved them. They are so loyal and faithful, you will never again feel alone or forgotten. When your friends are too busy, the dog will always find you the center of his universe. They are very sensitive to your feelings.
When you don't feel like doing anything, the dog will remind you, that you both need a walk, need to eat, need to be taken care of (which is pretty simple for a dog). If you are alone, you really would benefit from companionship.
I sure hope he gets a good home. On the negative side, beagles are very "NOSY" and can take off following a scent, so you have to be sure they are contained in a securely fenced yard. They can be noisy when they are happy or think they have found something exciting, but I think it is cute.
I don't know how I could live without all my animals. I have one old dog left, 3 cats and 8 horses. They have gotten me through a lot of tough times. Two cats that died, used to lie with me when I was really sick to take care of me. They would watch over me while I was sleeping and mew at me whenever I opened my eyes. They tried to groom me. I still miss them.
Posted by lifewithlyme (Member # 4557) on :
Thanks for everyones input. I still have my Willy (cat) who is great when I'm sick. But I bit off way more than I could chew with the dog; there is a waiting list for him so it is more fair for both of us if he goes back... thanks again, Sarah and Lymetoo, I nearly lost it when I saw all the deer ticks....terrified me.
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
![[group hug]](graemlins/grouphug.gif)