Pets should always have safe harbor

Dear Dr. Forsythe:  I wanted to ask your advice on how to handle a delicate situation with our two pets.  We have a wonderful dog and a very grumpy cat that belong to our son and daughter and have been our family pets for many years. This fall, both of the kids will be leaving the nest and moving to places where they won’t be able to keep their pets with them.  Our son and daughter are assuming that my husband and I will be keeping the animals indefinitely, but this poses a big problem for the travel and other plans I have been making for our “empty nest” years.

I was wondering if you think I have an obligation to take care of the children’s pets after they move away.  This must be an issue for other people, too — not only our family, right?  Please give me the best advice you can.

Mom who wants to set sail

Dear Mom:  Don’t buy that yacht just yet.  In case you haven’t heard, parenting doesn’t end when the “kids” head off to college or move away to take a job, etc… It is a lifelong commitment, and pets are often part of that agreement.

In my opinion, family pets are a vital part of raising happy healthy and well adjusted children.  We learn about unconditional love, companionship, loyalty, responsibility, loss, and the cycle of life from our pets. Children often go through difficult childhood periods of transition more easily when they have a loving family pet by their side during times of challenges and frustration.  The human/animal bond is an exquisite one that should be respected and revered.

In honor and thanks of the fact that your dog and cat helped raise your kids and they are able and ready to leave the nest, I would highly suggest you provide them a secure and loving retirement in your home for as long as they live.  This will also send another positive message to the kids you raised and are sending out into the world.  And remember, both dogs and cats can do very well on a boat, so if you must set sail around the world, get a yacht that can accommodate the canine and feline in your life. Best of luck to you!!

Sincerely, 

Dr. Vallard C. Forsythe