illiams) is telling the older character Wendy (my very favorite!!) the story of how he came to Neverland. He relates to Wendy how he used to visit the window of the home of his parents. He explains how he felt when he looked into their closed window and saw that they had forgotten all about him, and had another child. This part of the story has really been on my mind lately.Some of you may recall the story of how our 10 year old Golden named Sam, came to live with us. You can read it here if you'd like. The short version is that he came to us via a family at the church we attend who, for several reason found that couldn't keep him any longer. While they asked for Sam to be returned back in February, in the end it was decided that Sam should remain with us.
Well, a few weeks ago they got another dog. I have to admit that this has bothered me. Postings on Facebook (my other addition) have been glowing accounts of what a wonderful dog their new addition is. While I'm sure this is true, for some reason I was bothered by a posting of his picture and these words from Sam's former owner:
"This is Kodiak, AKA Koda. He joined our family yesterday after we met him at an adoption event. He is absolutely wonderful in every way. He just needs to gain a little weight to be where he needs to be. He is an absolute love and seems thrilled to have a family who desperately wants to give him the love and attention he deserves! My Kodabear!!"
I know that Sam has a good life with us, and I shouldn't feel this way. But
in my heart, it doesn't keep me from feeling sorry for him. I'm sorry that they seem to have forgotten all about Sam and closed that window. I know that life does continue. I know that lives and circumstances do change. I also live in the real world, (at least part of the time), and I know that many families who have given dogs up, do end up getting another. But I guess this is different because I just didn't know about it.
"This is Kodiak, AKA Koda. He joined our family yesterday after we met him at an adoption event. He is absolutely wonderful in every way. He just needs to gain a little weight to be where he needs to be. He is an absolute love and seems thrilled to have a family who desperately wants to give him the love and attention he deserves! My Kodabear!!"
I know that Sam has a good life with us, and I shouldn't feel this way. But
in my heart, it doesn't keep me from feeling sorry for him. I'm sorry that they seem to have forgotten all about Sam and closed that window. I know that life does continue. I know that lives and circumstances do change. I also live in the real world, (at least part of the time), and I know that many families who have given dogs up, do end up getting another. But I guess this is different because I just didn't know about it. 
Your feeling are valid, but remember that there is a reason why Sam is whith you and not them!
ReplyDeleteCheers,
Elizabeth & Luna
It does seem very cold hearted, Kim. Like animals are toys that can be tossed away when you are tired of them. Added to that, they seem to be on again, off again about dogs. I just hope this new one is a different story. Just out of curiosity, what kind of dog is the new one?
ReplyDeleteBut, the important thing is -- is Sam happy? He looks happy, in the pictures you have up, and, I did read your earlier account and you seemed to think that he was a happy boy.
I think that he's a lucky boy, to have landed, finally, where he will spend his days loved and cared for.
And, my opinion of you just took another step up (not that it wasn't high already) because you care, and because those people would never be you.
I'd be bugged about that too - no... I'd probably be in some degree of rage - hard to get rid of unless you can sit down quietly and just meditate. Something about an indignity done to Sam might continue to irk you - but I'm thinking: Sam is soooooo lucky to have you who loves him as well as his "sibs" for that, I smile and quietly thank YOU so much on Sam's behalf.
ReplyDeleteHugs xoxoxo
Sammie and Ma
umm that must have been hard. I hope they can look after the new dog.
ReplyDeletePoor Sam, Okay, I am a bit upset, but of all the @#$%$^&*(!!! I don't know what to say - they basically threw him away, because he was old? I am so glad that you were there to "catch" him! That in no way excuses that kind of behavior! As old as Sam is - they were his family, before you! Alright, I'm crying with upset and anger!!!
ReplyDeletePlease give Sammy boy a hug from his "Grammy Sharon"
Sam is in the best place he can be right now and I know he is very thankful.
ReplyDeleteI've said before that I think Sam was the winner in this case, he was able to stay with you and all of his 'golden siblings.'
ReplyDeleteI truly do not understand the reasoning behind some people's intentions.
You did the right thing !
Did you get my comment? My face is still wet. I know, nobody is guaranteed that life is fair, but geez!
ReplyDeleteI know if Rough hadn't gotten run over, and was in a situation like Sam, I would want him back! In a heartbeat! I would not go out and get yet another dog....
Poor Sam, hugs for both of you!
They are utterly selfish & in my opinion if they couldn't look after Sam then they shouldn't be allowed another....Grrrrr. xxx
ReplyDeleteIt`s understandable how you feel. Sam is a lucky dog to have found you!
ReplyDeleteI am very sorry for Sam, too. I am too happy he can live with you but he deserved better from his "family":( They learned nothing from whatever hardship they went through... I hope they don't ditch Kodiak as well..
ReplyDeleteI can understand how you feel about Sam and the new dog Kim..I would feel exactly the same.
ReplyDeleteSnap! Peter Pan was my favourite story as a child..and still is!,although I didn't like the film version.
Bellaboo :0)
Some people....?!?
ReplyDeleteI just don't get it...but, Sam is one of the very lucky ones. Dogs are not disposable. And to make a big to-do out of their current act of kindness is a little to self congratulatory for my taste.
Oh, I can see how that would not sit right with you. It doesn't with me, either. The dogs we bring into our lives should not be disposable. The important thing, though, is that Sam is where he should be, and has a home where he is loved and cared for and where he will never be lost or forgotten.
ReplyDeleteI'd be mad too! I guess Sam wasn't what they were expecting, and I can imagine a similar fate awaits that other dog. I hope not, but if they've done it once...
ReplyDeleteAwwwwwwwwwww...kidnap him in the middle of the night! Sorry x
ReplyDeleteI think Sam is in a place where he is loved better. I feel sorry for Koda - where will he end up in a few years?
ReplyDeleteSam
Well...sadly this is true for the way humans treat other humans too.
ReplyDeleteDoesn't seem right. People and animals aren't to be discarded or divorced because we're 'tired' of them.
This is very heartbreaking, how can you give up a member of your family and then replace that member with a new one.
ReplyDeleteWhy was Sam the add man out?
Thank God you were there for him otherwise who knows what would have happened to him.
These Golden's give us unconditional love forever, no time limit and unless their is a solid reason that they must be given up they should be able to live out their life with dignity in their OWN home.
Obviously this was a case of just getting tired of one and wanting to replace it with another.
That works with automobiles but not pets.
There, we will get off our soapbox now.
Sheila & Bob
i totally understand why you would be sensitive to this! everyone has different circumstances, but i could never imagine not loving my dog, even if i had to re-home him....just happy that he found YOU.....such a handsome guy! :)
ReplyDeletexoxo
My heart is boiling with anger as I read this post.
ReplyDeleteI feel so sorry for their new dog and I won't be surprised if they decided to turn him away, just like what they did to Sam.
Sam is better off without this family. Good riddance!
Love,
The Missus
PS: Homer's got a facebook and he would like to connect with you!
Woof1 Woof! It's normal to be bothered by it. I don't agree that they should have gotten a new dog - I thought when you adopt a dog they usually ask about previous pets n do some kind a background check.
ReplyDeleteOn the other hand, maybe they think that it would upset you or it is not kind to take Sam back again for the second time. They should have a courtesy to let you know .. unless they really forgot about Sam.
I just hope they are taking care of Koda. SAM is very lucky to have a home with you. Lots of Golden Woofs, Sugar
Ah... sweet Sam... he is where he is meant to be. With you and his Golden pack.
ReplyDeleteYes, a little jib to the heart finding that out. Yet, Sam has a most wonderful place with all of you. Big love all around Golden Pines.
ReplyDeleteHugs and snaggle-tooth kisses,
Sierra Rose
Thankfully this isn't something Sam can see or understand and I'm sure his life with you is very blessed. It breaks my heart as well when I hear about things like this, and you do have to wonder how long a grace period the 'new dog' will have before things go south for him as well. I so admire what you do for the Goldens.
ReplyDeleteTammy
I'm sure this is upsetting.
ReplyDeleteI hope this time they understand pet ownership is fur-ever commitment, not just something to post on FB! (Makes me mad too, the more I think about it!)
All things considered, I think Sam is the winner here! He lives with YOU!
Hugs and belly rubs to all and an extra one for Sam.
~K
I am thinking sweet Sam is so very happy to be with you and all your other pups Kim. One can't always understand the reasoning why people do the things they do. But for some reason, Sam was supposed to be living with you ~ and there is lots of love in that sweet face in the window!!! :)
ReplyDeleteBig hug for Sam!!!
xo Catherine
Sam's lucky to be with you!
ReplyDeleteWe are with you on this one -
ReplyDeleteEspecially since we are getting to experience something similar -
Albeit with a missing puppy - it is still a feeling of 'WTF' -
Sam knows love with woo - plus, it is time for me to paw
Things happen for reasons -
Khyra's Mom
But Sam is with YOU! That's God's design, because after all, you're the best thing that ever happened to Sam. He is so LUCKY you chose him and you are so BLESSED to have him. He's not rejected, he's SELECTED. Hug him for me!
ReplyDeleteLiz
sometimes you just want to rattle people until their teeth fall out
ReplyDeleteIt does make you wonder doesn't it? At least Sam is at a wonderful home now, where he is loved deeply....
ReplyDeleteGill in Canada
Thank goodness that Sam has found a home with you. The world is about disposable animals (and people - look how companies dump "older" workers for "fresh young blood" who usually last for about a year or so...)
ReplyDeleteMr Sam is fortunate for having good people like you take care of him and others. My Apples seconds this thought too.
Woofs,
Nadine Apples & Neeli
Thank goodness that Sam has found a home with you. The world is about disposable animals (and people - look how companies dump "older" workers for "fresh young blood" who usually last for about a year or so...)
ReplyDeleteMr Sam is fortunate for having good people like you take care of him and others. My Apples seconds this thought too.
Woofs,
Nadine Apples & Neeli
oh, I am sure you have a reason to feel the way you do. As I have lived the life of someone who rescues abandoned animals, I too am often amazed at people who abandon or give up an animal only to turn around and get a new cute puppy or a kitten.
ReplyDeleteI have tears in my eyes for Sam as well. At least he knows he has you forever.