This just stinks

Well, it looks like we're losing another pet. This time not due to cancer or some other horrible disease. Actually, health problems might make this easier. I've never bonded with Ulf quite like I did with Sam or Tennessee, but that isn't making this decision any easier.

Ulf doesn't like kids. He growls, bares his teeth and snaps at Wilder. He's a dog; a pack animal. I can hardly blame him for his actions now, but I know that given serious damage I could never forgive him and would never forgive myself. Three weeks after we got him, he bit me. It wasn't much of a bite, but it was enough to make me know in my heart of hearts that he'd go for Wilder at some point if I was the least bit lax in supervision. He might even do it right in front of me.

I know this is right. I know it. But I friggin' hate it. I don't give up on dogs; never have. I adopt the dogs (and cats) everyone gives up on. I don't know how to handle this.

...

So it looks like this weekend Ulf is going back to live on the land we got him from. A woman named Martha Hover operates a no-kill shelter called ARF (Animal Refuge Foundation) near Sherman, Texas. She has 300 dogs on 25 acres and is a saint of a woman, as far as I'm concerned. If you ever have a few dollars and want to give it to someone who is doing incredible things for God's creatures, consider Martha. Her place really is something to behold. She drives around a little cart and the dogs follow her everywhere she goes. I hope Ulf can fit in and be happy here and won't cause problems. Jerry and I are still hoping she can adopt him out to a nice childless person, and hopefully I'll be able to keep track of him. When we left with Ulf three-plus years ago, she told me to call if he didn't work out. I'm not sure I could do this if she hadn't made that offer. Truly, ARF and Martha are rarities in this world.

Anyway, I just needed to let this out. I'm damn broken up about this. Two years ago I would never have imagined I'd lose Sam, Tennessee and Ulf in less than one year. That's a lotta love to let go of in such a short amount of time.

So say a little prayer for Ulf and his journey from here on out.