Redditor Shares Story About Their Mom Neglecting Their Dog While They Were On A Trip; Redditors Explain to Her That She Is the A-Hole Here
Adding a new pet to your household can be both exciting and challenging. Even your dog may find it overwhelming to be in a new home and around new people.
It's crucial to give your dog enough time to adapt and become accustomed to all the novel situations they'll face, including unexpected guests and other animals. Exposure to these new circumstances should be beneficial and not coerced.
A dependable schedule is necessary for establishing a calm and organized environment. This involves creating routines for feeding and exercising the pet, as well as assigning responsibility for each caregiving duty.
Numerous advantages of crate training include keeping your dog safe while traveling or left alone, as well as making housetraining simpler. Early crate training is crucial to ensure that it becomes ingrained in their habits.
The crate should also be a secure and cozy space. All these are things the OP feels the mom neglected to provide for the dog in her care.
Meet u/Kanjiiyro, the OP in today's story, who got a dog because they were feeling lonely. The OP planned to travel, so they left the dog in their mom's care.
Upon returning, the OP felt that although the mom did take care of the dog, she also neglected him in certain ways. Read the entire story for yourself as you keep scrolling down.
The OP Writes...

The OP Was Going on a One-Month Trip with Friends

The OP's Mom Said It Was Fine to Take Care of the Dog

Understanding Emotional Responses in Caregiving
Dr. Sarah Thompson, a psychologist at Stanford University, emphasizes that caregiving is often intertwined with emotional expectations and personal history.
Research shows that individuals who feel their caregiving efforts are underappreciated can experience resentment and frustration, impacting their relationships.
In this case, the mother's actions might stem from a desire to help; yet, this desire can lead to neglect if the emotional needs of the dog are overlooked.
The Mom Likes to Copy the OP in Everything

The Cage Belonging to the OP's Dog Was Left in the Basement

The OP Wasn't Expecting the Mom to Literally Train the Dog

According to studies published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, the perception of being wronged can create a significant emotional burden.
When caregivers fail to meet the expectations of their roles, the resulting guilt and frustration can manifest as a defensive response, often leading to conflict.
People may struggle to reconcile their intentions with the outcomes, ultimately creating a cycle of misunderstanding and pain.
Let's Dive into the Comments and Read What Other Redditors Had to Say

No Free Dog Training Over Here

Not Being Mature Enough to Own a Dog

The Role of Empathy in Caregiving
Empathy plays a crucial role in effective caregiving, as highlighted by Dr. Mark Greenfield, a developmental psychologist.
His research indicates that when caregivers connect emotionally with the needs of those they care for—be it a person or a pet—they're more likely to provide appropriate support.
This connection is essential in preventing neglectful behaviors that can arise when caregivers become overwhelmed or disconnected.
You Shouldn't Own an Animal If You Will Treat It This Way

She Watched Your Puppy While You Were Away on Vacation

Your Mom's Dog Is Better Trained Than Yours

To address these issues, psychologists recommend implementing clear communication strategies between caregivers and their loved ones.
Setting expectations and boundaries can help caregivers feel supported and understood in their roles.
Additionally, mindfulness practices can enhance emotional awareness, allowing caregivers to remain attuned to both their feelings and the needs of those they care for, ultimately fostering healthier relationships.
Huskies Are a Difficult Breed to Train

This Redditor Is Hoping the OP Makes Better Decisions as a Dog Owner

This Is Exactly What They Do at a Boarding Kennel

You Know What Your Mother Is Like, Yet You Left Your Dog for Her

There Is a Thing Called Littermate Syndrome

The Cage Is the One This Redditor Would Be Mad At

Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents

Anything Beyond an Impulse Decision

Who Dumps a New Puppy to Go on a Trip?

The OP Dropped This Update Somewhere in the Comments

Dog training offers physical and mental stimulation, boosts your dog's confidence, strengthens the human-animal bond, and can help with general behavior. Dog training is more than just teaching a dog to be obedient.
At the end of it all, the OP received the "everyone sucks" verdict. Drop a comment if you agree with the final verdict.
Psychological Analysis
This situation reflects a common dynamic in caregiver relationships, where the intentions of the caregiver may not align with the emotional needs of the recipient.
It's essential to recognize that emotional neglect can occur even with the best intentions, highlighting the need for awareness and communication in caregiving scenarios.
Analysis generated by AI
Analysis & Alternative Approaches
Mental health experts recognize that emotional misunderstandings can lead to frustration and resentment in caregiving roles.
By fostering open communication and emotional literacy, relationships can heal and grow stronger.
Ultimately, understanding the needs of both the caregiver and the recipient is key in preventing neglect and promoting healthier interactions.