Redditor Buys Dog From Mother Undergoing Divorce, Now Has Stalking Problem, And Asks How To Get Rid Of Her

In a quiet household bound by love and resilience, a small family grapples with loss and the longing for connection. The absence of Riley, their loyal dog of 17 years, leaves a silent ache in their hearts, especially for John, a young boy navigating the world without the safety net of his mother or father. Dave and the narrator stand as pillars of support, striving to fill the void with warmth and hope.

Amidst the shadows of grief and the challenge of healing, a new chance at companionship emerges in the form of Lady, a spirited Husky-Lab mix. This hopeful arrival symbolizes more than just a new pet; it is a beacon of renewal, a chance to mend broken spirits, and a testament to the enduring power of chosen family.

Me [26F] I got a dog from a friend of a friend who could not continue taking care of her. [27F] and her kids [11m, 9F] want to continue to see the dog. I am not comfortable with this.

Dr. Suzanne Hetts, a certified animal behavior consultant and co-founder of Animal Behavior Associates, often emphasizes that successful pet rehoming requires clear communication regarding expectations of future contact. In this scenario, the OP and June failed to establish definitive boundaries at the time of the transfer.

The OP acted appropriately by formalizing the adoption through documentation (signing over ownership, vet checks), which legally establishes them as the new owners. The OP’s motivation—to provide stability for their brother John following a loss—is a primary factor guiding their decisions. Demands for photos and proposed unannounced visits from June are significant boundary violations. June’s desire for continued access is likely rooted in grief and attachment, possibly intensified by her divorce; however, this emotional distress does not supersede the OP’s right to maintain a stable environment for the dog and the family.

The OP’s actions to refuse visits and state their discomfort were appropriate responses to boundary encroachment. The threat of involving law enforcement should be reserved as a last resort. A more constructive next step is to send one final, clear communication stating that while they understand June’s feelings, the dog is now fully integrated into their family, and any further unannounced visits will be considered trespassing. They should cease responding to emotional appeals and only address logistical matters if June attempts to legally challenge ownership, which is unlikely given the rehoming fee and documentation.

THE COMMENTS SECTION WENT WILD – REDDIT HAD *A LOT* TO SAY ABOUT THIS ONE.

And then if she STILL tries to come by, I’d give her one more warning – “If you come here again, I will be forced to call the police.

Enough is enough.

Then block her number and keep lady locked up in your home for the time being. Its not overkill.

Her asking you for pictures of the dog without you in them, kind of sounds like her wanting to “prove” the dog is hers.

The original poster is feeling pressured because the original owner of the dog, June, is insisting on continued contact and visits, which conflicts with the OP’s sense of ownership and responsibility for the dog’s well-being in their new home. The central conflict is between the OP’s clear boundaries regarding the pet adoption and June’s emotional attachment and potential inability to cope with the loss, possibly exacerbated by her ongoing divorce.

Given that the legal transfer of ownership and veterinary care procedures were completed, should the OP stand firm on their right to set boundaries regarding the dog, or is there an ethical obligation to offer limited comfort to the former owner during a difficult personal time?