Moving house and not going to be able to keep dog - 3 yr old DS adores dog - advice needed!

[DesertFox]

We are about to move from the middle of the countryside to central London. Haven't told DS yet. Top tips needed, both on how to make this as easy as possible for DS, and also there is a big prob because we have a dog, who is not going to be able to come with us, and DS absolutely adores the dog. We are moving to a gardenless flat (financial constraints!) and we want to find the dog (who is lovely and very attractive with a really easy going nature, but a collie so needs lots of excercise) a new home and make a clean break. We are really worried that DS will a) desperately miss dog and b)worry that we might get rid of him too!!! How to do this well? Aaaarrrggghh worrying a lot about this. Any advice gratefully received.

None, but a bump for you.

Thanks! Help everyone!!! Has anyone been in this situation!? Every time I look at dog I want to cry!!!

no advice either don't think I could do it another bump for someone with experience

It's a horrible thing to have to do. I feel really really guilty. But we've given the whole thing loads of thought and are convinced we're making the right decision in the long run.
I don't just need advice on the dog thing (though that's the worst) also other tips for easing the move - we left London when DS was 1, so all he's really known is the countryside - it's going to be a big change for him.

Is there someone who could have the dog who is a friend or relative so your ds can still see him and therefore ease the pain a wee bit...

Have you contacted the RSPCA for advice? there might be someone on the outskirts of London who would love to have your dog, and would be happy to have visits?

I think dooley1's suggestion is really good. A relative having the dog would enable DS to see him.

There is a possibility that she (dog) could stay with grandparents for a while, but not permenantly - do you think this is a good plan on the basis that DS could get used to not having her around all the time, whilst having occasional visits and knowing she's with beloved grandparents, or is it just prolonging the agony bearing in mind that she'll have to be rehomed eventually?

we have just had to rehome our dogs as dd wanted to play all the time with them and it wasnt fair on them as they where to old now for running round the house all day they just wanted to chill out. so we just sat down and told her that there going to a better home, and soon she will have a baby to play with (im pg), she has been fine with this, why dont you take off the dogs collar and put a new one on ur dog and say its gone to a new better home or if you think its best to say the dogs gone to heaven and give ur ds the dog collar so he still feels close to ur dog says its a present from........ur dog. sorry i know it sounds horrible to say that.

Desert fox - where are you living now ?

We are looking for a dog.

I'd probably emphasise what is best for the dog. Talk about how unhappy the dog would be living in a flat with no garden and that the dog will be happier with new owners who are able to let him run around in their garden and walk him in the countryside.

TheodoresMummy, we are in West Wales! I can give you lots more info on her if you are interested!!