Woman Accuses Her Sibling Of Stealing Her Dog, Even After Giving It Up And Never Coming Back For It

Our beloved dogs give us unconditional love, so it makes us wonder why some owners abandon their dogs. There are various reasons why people make this decision.

However, this mostly stems from not understanding all the responsibilities of owning a pet. They are often oblivious to the needs of their pets, which require a significant amount of time to fulfill their physical and mental needs, including vet visits and grooming.

Time is a major factor behind people taking their dogs to shelters. Aside from feeding them, dogs need to be walked outside, socialized, have their litter changed, and much more.

Caring for them is particularly challenging when they are puppies. If people are not aware of every responsibility that comes with owning a dog, they can quickly become overwhelmed.

Others undergo lifestyle changes. For example, if they move to a property that does not allow dogs, they may be forced to give up their pets.

Some people rely on their relatives to take care of their dogs. But if the original owner leaves the dogs with someone else and does not claim them after a couple of years, do they still own the dog?

People have divided opinions about this. One Redditor recently encountered this problem with a dog given up by their sister.

She decided to ask the "Am I The A**hole?" (AITA) about it.

The original poster (OP) explains the situation, saying that their sister gave up her dogs to their other sister.

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The OP has been taking care of the dogs since her sister gave them up.

Now that the OP is moving out, her other sister wants her to take the other dog for practical reasons. However, the sister who originally owned the dog is accusing her of stealing the puppy.

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Redditors believe that the dogs are already the OP's dogs the moment their sister gave the dogs up.

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Understanding Ownership and Emotional Attachment

Attachment theory, developed by Dr. John Bowlby, reveals how emotional bonds can complicate relationships, especially in cases of pet ownership. The emotional connection one feels toward a pet can lead to possessiveness and conflict when circumstances change.

In this scenario, the sibling’s claim over the dog, despite relinquishing it, indicates unresolved feelings of attachment and possibly guilt regarding their past decisions.

Exploring Emotional Attachments and Ownership

Dr. Alan McLean, a psychologist specializing in attachment theory, posits that emotional bonds with pets can create complex ownership dynamics.

When a pet is given up, the emotional ramifications can lead to feelings of betrayal or abandonment for both the pet and the owner.

Research shows that these attachments can form strong psychological bonds, making it challenging for individuals to reconcile their decisions in the face of later claims of ownership.

If this user were in the other sister's situation, they wouldn't give the dogs back to the original owner.

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Leaving the dogs for four years is already considered abandonment.

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Why would the sister accuse the OP of stealing when it seems that she has no plans of getting her dogs back?

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Research suggests that feelings of ownership can trigger strong emotional responses, including jealousy and protectiveness. A study published in the Journal of Social Psychology indicates that individuals may experience anxiety when they perceive a threat to their emotional bonds.

This can explain why the sibling feels justified in claiming the dog, despite their earlier decisions, as it is rooted in the instinctual need to reclaim lost connections.

In this scenario, the sibling's accusation may reflect unresolved feelings about the decision to give up the dog.

According to studies published in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology, unresolved grief and attachment issues can manifest in projections of blame onto others.

Understanding this dynamic can help the accused sibling navigate the emotional complexity and respond with compassion.

A responsible dog owner will see through the needs of their dogs no matter what the circumstances are.

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It's been four years, so she no longer has rights over the dogs.

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If she had given the dogs up to a shelter, they would have been in a forever home after a couple of months.

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The Psychological Impact of Pet Displacement

The emotional turmoil surrounding pet ownership disputes can be profound. According to the American Psychological Association, losing a pet or feeling as though one has lost a pet can evoke grief similar to that experienced in human relationships.

This highlights the need for sensitivity when discussing such matters, as the emotional fallout can affect all parties involved, especially the pet.

Addressing the Accusation with Empathy

When faced with accusations, it’s essential to approach the situation with empathy and openness.

Research from the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology indicates that acknowledging the other person's feelings can foster understanding and reduce conflict.

By validating the sibling's emotions while also expressing your own perspective, a more constructive dialogue can emerge.

Maybe the OP and her sister need to explain that the two dogs aren't getting along.

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Whoever pays for the dogs already has rights over these dogs.

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The original dog owner only contributed for the first year.

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Conflict resolution strategies are essential in navigating these emotionally charged situations. A clinical psychologist emphasizes that addressing the underlying feelings of loss and attachment is critical.

Open communication about the emotional significance of the pet can help both parties understand each other's perspectives and find a path forward that respects the bond they share with the animal.

Experts recommend creating a space for honest communication about the past decision to give up the pet.

Discussing the reasons behind that choice can help alleviate feelings of guilt or shame and promote healing.

Additionally, seeking the help of a mediator or family therapist may provide a neutral ground for discussing these feelings.

It's way past one year. The sister no longer owns the dogs at this point.

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Does the sister not realize how long four years is?

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Even if they take it to court, the original dog owner wouldn't win the case.

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Practical Steps for Resolving Disputes

To address such conflicts, both parties should consider participating in a mediated discussion to explore their feelings and expectations regarding the pet. This can provide a safe space to articulate grievances and desires without escalating tensions.

Additionally, establishing a care plan for the dog that includes input from both sides can help foster a sense of shared responsibility and mitigate feelings of possessiveness.

The Role of Responsibility in Pet Ownership

Understanding the responsibilities associated with pet ownership is crucial in these discussions.

Research shows that clear communication about pet care responsibilities can prevent misunderstandings and emotional conflicts.

Creating a shared understanding of what it means to care for a pet, including emotional and financial commitments, can help both siblings reach a more amicable resolution.

If the sister gets her dogs back, they would just be stressed.

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Leaving a dog with someone else for four years is considered abandonment.

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A user doesn't need to explain.

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Ultimately, navigating the emotional landscape of pet ownership disputes requires compassion, clear communication, and mutual respect.

Research from the American Psychological Association emphasizes that focusing on emotional needs can guide conversations towards healing rather than conflict.

By prioritizing understanding and empathy, both siblings can work toward a resolution that honors their feelings and the dog's well-being.

A Redditor only wants the best for the dog.

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For this user, it wouldn't hurt to ask permission from the original owner.

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A user defends the OP and her sister for their actions.

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The majority believes that it is completely acceptable for the OP to take the dog with them. According to the laws in the USA, if the owner does not retrieve the dog after a maximum of 14 days (shorter in some states), then the pet is considered abandoned.

The OP's sister no longer has rights over these dogs since the OP and the other sister have been paying for their needs for the past three years.

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

In conclusion, addressing pet ownership disputes involves recognizing the emotional complexities that accompany attachment and responsibility.

Research underscores the importance of empathetic communication in resolving conflicts while preserving relationships.

By fostering understanding and compassion, individuals can navigate these challenging discussions more effectively, ensuring that both human and animal needs are met.

Psychological Analysis

This situation highlights the complexities surrounding emotional attachment to pets. When ownership changes, it can trigger feelings of loss and possessiveness, making resolution challenging. It is important for both parties to acknowledge these emotions and work towards a solution that honors the pet's needs and their own.

Analysis generated by AI

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

In summary, disputes over pet ownership reveal the deep emotional bonds that can complicate relationships. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for resolving conflicts in a way that honors the attachment both parties have developed with the pet.

Through open communication and mutual respect, individuals can find solutions that prioritize the well-being of the animal while addressing their emotional needs.