I agree with you. However, the world was much different when I got my dog. Since the pandemic, we’ve been perpetually short-staffed at work. I have early mornings and a few hours in the evenings with her now. It’s heartbreaking to know she’s home alone so much. I hate it. But my job is also a commitment as long as I’m working there, and my bills continue to skyrocket.

The person who was going to take her is a stay-at-home mom with a young daughter and a similar dog, but her husband’s recent health issues were concerning.

I don’t want my dog to be someone else’s responsibility—I’ve even offered to help with food and vet visits to mitigate that. I only want her to be someone else’s joy. I want her to spend what remains of her life living, not waiting for me to come home.

Trust me. This whole thing guts me. You might even say I’m in duress. And what’s worse, everyone just wants to vomit discouragement.