Community Chat

[rustysmom]

I have 3 cats ages 12, 11 and almost 5. Rusty the oldest has only been around a dog when he was a kitten. Our dog passed within a few months of getting Rusty and we have not had a dog since. As far as I know, the other cats have never been around dogs at all. My sisters grandson has a sweet young mixed dog who is good around other dogs and cats that he wants to get rid of. My sister has a dog and can't take on another and she said that if she can't find a good home for it she will have to take her to the animal shelter. My husband has wanted another dog for years, but I have been afraid to get one with the cats. Like I said, this dog is a sweetheart and I am seriously considering taking her, I am just nervous how the cats will do. Especially Rusty, he is afraid of everything, hides when strangers come to the house, hides when the grandkids come, hides when it is storming, hides when I run the vaccum, he is scared of everthing. I am torn because I want to give this dog a home but I don't want Rusty hiding the rest of his life.the other 2 cats are pretty laid back and even though they will be scared at first, I think they will adjust ok, just not sure about Rusty. Plus my cats eat at will, I leave dry food out for them. I know that the dog would eat their food if left out. Short of putting it up on a table, I don't know what I would do there. I guess I am just looking for your input on the situation. Thanks in advance.