new home

Question
QUESTION: My husband and I have a wonderful 7 year old Pug.  He is like an only child and seldom left alone (unless we go to a family function/out to eat...never more than a 4-5 hours @ a time).  We both work different shifts and do not go out often.  My mother-in-law has been diagnosed with a terminal illness and soon will need us to move in with her (moving in with us is NOT an option).  Unfortunately she lives in a condo "village" and they do not allow dogs.  Sadly, this means that we will have to find a new home for our "Buster".  We plan on being extremely selective and cautious about who gets this beautiful dog.  But, I am feeling extremely overwhelmed that he may not adjust.  Will he adjust?  Will he be happy?  How long does the adjustment period take?  Will he able to bond with new owners?  Will he remember us and always be sad because we are not there for him anymore?  Please help ease my mind and/or suggest the best way to handle this.....I'm already crying and this whole thing may not have to happen for a few months....Thank you for any answers you can give me...Cheryl

ANSWER: I think rehoming is always difficult for dogs, but sometimes people come first.  I am not going soft pedal the effect on the dog or beat you up for what you can't help.  He is the victim of unfortunate circumstances.  I will concentrate on what may be best for him.  

If you got him from a breeder, your contract may even call for returning him to them.  Even if not, many breeders would be quick to take the dog back even after 7 years.  7 is still young for such a small dog.  He could have many good years in a new home.  

Another good place would be a Pug rescue.  You may find a rescue near you starting at http://www.akc.org/breeds/rescue.cfm  Most rescues specialize in a certain breed and have contacts to place dogs in good homes.  Your dog shouldn't require the socialization or retraining many of the dogs do before being placed in a home.  A rescue may have better answers to some of your questions than I do.  

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QUESTION: I appreciate your response and understanding but I don't feel my questions have been answered.  Will he ever adjust to a new owner/home and be a happy little dog again?...PS.....he has been neutered from the very beginning and is also litter boxed trained because he hates the snow and rain...and...just in case for rare emergencies in the middle of the night....he's such a good, good boy!

Answer
At 7 years old, I do think a dog will adjust to a new home, but don't have much experience to base it on.  We had an 8 year old Lab come to live with us this year, and I think he enjoys it here.  Of course, hehas known us most of his life and was a frequent visitor.  As I said, a rescue may have better answers than I do.  I really don't like to give my speculations as fact.  Unfortunately, too many others have absolute faith in what seems right to them.