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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

To adopt an 11 year old dog?

276 replies

ReasonablyIntelligent · 14/05/2019 12:01

I'm finally returning to the UK after having spent almost 4 years working away across various countries.

I have always been utterly desperate for a dog, I've had Border Collies before and love them.

I have my own business now so DP and I will both be working from home, we're financially stable so I think we're in a good place.
Only slight niggle is that we talked about doing some travelling, which we couldn't with a dog.

I always expected to get a puppy when we were ready, but I've been keeping my eye on the local dog shelters and have fallen in love with an 11 year old border collie at our nearest one. (not actually met her tho)

I love the idea of rehoming a dog, particularly one who may be struggling to find a home (at a guess her age may be putting people off).
However I've some concerns about rescue collies in general (I've had one and he was so damaged, bless him. Border Collies are high needs and it can go bad when those needs aren't met).
Also, an 11 year old Collie only has 3-4 years left - so I'd be setting myself up for heartbreak really very soon (I know that's really selfish).
On the other side (and I'm aware this is an awful thing to think), she'd be lower commitment than a puppy time wise.

Im not concerned about supporting her through old age, we have the time and money.

AIBU to consider it with such reservations? Is there any factors I've not thought of?

OP posts:
Thread gallery
19
JellyMouldJnr · 07/06/2019 13:04

what a wonderful happy ending/new beginning .

tulips77 · 07/06/2019 13:17

I rarely post but this is a wonderful thread. Congratulations OP and Skye Smile

H2OH20Everywhere · 07/06/2019 14:35

That last photograph is adoreable! Hugs!!!!!!!!!

H2OH20Everywhere · 07/06/2019 14:36

(Out of interest, where will she be sleeping tonight? I'm guessing on her new double bed with you and MrRI!)

ReasonablyIntelligent · 07/06/2019 14:53

On the bed, we're not precious!

OP posts:
H2OH20Everywhere · 07/06/2019 14:55

How did I guess?????

UnderPompeii · 07/06/2019 15:01

Awwwww💕💕💕💕 That's made my dayGrin

MaMaMaMySharona · 07/06/2019 15:03

I'm crying at my desk at work! I am SO happy for all of you, what beautiful pictures and what a stunning dog.

HUGE CONGRATULATIONS!

eurochick · 07/06/2019 15:16

Aw. A happy ending (and new beginning). I hope you will have many happy years with your lovely dog. X

SirVixofVixHall · 07/06/2019 15:18

Made me cry too ! She does look the happiest of happy dogs !

Chocolatedeficitdisorder · 07/06/2019 15:20

Well done, you're a star.

GimmieTheCoffeeAndNooneDies · 07/06/2019 15:27

Lucky dog, Lucky you! I am so jealous- all I have is an ungrateful cat.

yearinyearout · 07/06/2019 16:07

Oh my word, this is the best thing I've seen all day 😁😁😁 look at her happy face!

grauduroi · 07/06/2019 16:20

Gorgeous dog and what a wonderful couple you are to have taken her into your home. I hope you have a fantastic time together.

mulberrybag · 07/06/2019 16:31

That's made me cry happy tears. Wishing you all the happiest and healthiest of times together

mamaoffourdc · 07/06/2019 16:49

Gorgeous end to the story x

REDCARBLUE · 07/06/2019 16:55

Do it. Id rather have an 11 yr old dog than an 11 week old puppy. Unconditional love for the last few years of life.

user1465335180 · 07/06/2019 17:44

So pleased it all worked out. Skye looks so happy and relaxed with you both. I think I may have something in my eyes, they keep running...

Honeyroar · 07/06/2019 19:47

How fantastic! So pleased for you, and most of all for her. She is clearly well aware that she's landed herself a perfect home for her final years.

Hats off and a round of applause to you both, you're fantastic.

homemadegin · 07/06/2019 19:50

Oh my. I've been following and am now in tears. What a total fairytale ending for that doggie. You can see the love. Absolutely beautiful. Enjoy every single snuggle.

HappyGirlNow · 07/06/2019 20:09

I’ve been following, so happy for you all. She’s such a beautiful girl 💕💕💕

DuffBeer · 07/06/2019 21:39

This is amazing. You were meant for each other 😍

MsVestibule · 07/06/2019 22:11

I don't think I've ever seen a happier looking dog! Congratulations, I hope you have many happy years together.

Tingface · 07/06/2019 22:58

Oh LOVELY LOVELY LOVELY Grin

Veterinari · 07/06/2019 23:07

Lovely thread OP thank you for sharing.
It’s an unpopular opinion but I genuinely believe (and research evidence supports) that rescue centres are incredibly detrimental to dog welfare, no matter how dedicated the staff. I’m so glad that you brought her home Flowers