Dumping man and keeping his dog a tricky move

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This article was published 24/04/2016 (3495 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Dear Miss Lonelyhearts: I met a man with a dog I fell for, much more than for him. I’m finding him a bit boring and self-centred, and I sense he’s not totally thrilled with me either. I am an extremely high-energy chatty person and he’s mentioned that. I know it sounds stupid to say I’m in love with a dog, but I’ve put off ending this so-so relationship because I can’t leave the dog. It would break her heart. She was an abused dog, and although she trusts him, it’s me she really shows her love to. Would it be too much to break up with him and ask if I could keep her? I would offer to buy him a new dog or a puppy.

— The Nerve of Me? Westwood

Dear The Nerve of You: Does he love this dog deeply, or is he just being a good dog owner? If you’re ever going to ask for her, it can’t be at the same time as you break up with him, but it would also be mean if it was later when she’s been suffering without you. And how attached is this man to you? Is he bored of you too, and can see you and the dog have a special bond? He might go for the offer of a new puppy, at your expense, who will bond to him more than to you. If that won’t wash, you could suggest a dog-walking and babysitting situation, kind of like parents who get divorced and share custody of the kids.

Please send your questions and comments to lovecoach@hotmail.com or Miss Lonelyhearts c/o the Winnipeg Free Press, 1355 Mountain Ave., Winnipeg, MB, R2X 3B6

Miss Lonelyhearts
Advice Columnist

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