help is there anything i can do?

one of my close relatives has a dog, and they don't take care of it very well. they leave her in her cage for long periods of time, no one ever plays with her, she is not groomed until her hair is completely matted down (i hear this is painful for the dog) and the kids are scared of her and won't go near her. i feel so bad for the dog it almost makes me sick. i was just wondering if anyone had any suggestions of something i could do to help the dog? i don't live really nearby. and i've offered to take the dog in, but they claim the kids would miss her. which obviously they won't b/c they never even go near her. or should i just leave well enough alone and at least be thankful they're not beating her or anything like that? thanks

You're absolutely right to be concerned -- I wouldn't leave 'well enough alone' here if I were you, even though the situation is awkward. Before calling the ASPCA, you might try talking to your relatives one more time -- as soon as you can. You could gently say that you're worried about the dog and maybe EVERYONE (including the humans of the house) would be happier if the dog had another home.

You could also comfort your relatives by saying that lots of people give up their pets to no-kill shelters. (Maybe they're only keeping the dog because they feel guilty, or worried that the dog will be put down.) And, if you're really serious about it, you could also reiterate your offer to take the dog yourself.

Good luck!

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Posted by Irishbride

I would call the ASPCA. I cant stand to see animals in need. I am sure you could make a complaint anomously.

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I was going to suggest the same

OMG I am going to cry that is sooo sad.
It totally reminds me of Animal Cops (which I watch every night 10 PM on animal planet) where the people who own the animal may not even realize how cruel they are being.
I agree with everyone else, that maybe you could make a call to the ASPCA or suggest giving the dog up.
Good Luck and you are doing the right thing by being concerned! Hopefully they will realize that you are right and the dog deserves a better life.

I would try talking to your relatives again. If they won't give up the dog, then call someone, that is not a good life for the dog.