Tired of Solo Pet Duties, One Caretaker Takes Action
The story
My family was eager to have pets, so we ended up adopting a mixed breed dog from the local shelter and two kittens. While everyone enjoyed playing with the new additions, the task of actually taking care of them fell entirely on my shoulders.
Every morning at 5:30 a.m., I was the one taking the dog for walks, cleaning the litter boxes, handling all the vet visits, buying and preparing their meals, and tidying up their feeding areas. If I left any of these tasks to my partner or the kids, they would either forget or do such a sloppy job that I ended up having to redo it anyway.
The situation was similar with the house plants and the indoor herb and vegetable garden my partner decided to start. They lost interest after the initial excitement, leaving me to deal with the aftermath of neglected plants: dead leaves, spilled soil, and pest infestations. If I didn’t step in to water and care for them, no one would.
Maintaining a clean and orderly home is important to me, especially since I grew up in a household that hoarded animals, resulting in a living environment that was far from ideal. I’m determined not to let history repeat itself in my own home. Unfortunately, if I don’t keep on top of the pets’ needs, the consequences are immediate and messy—the cats will spray if their litter isn’t clean, and the dog will chew and cause havoc if not walked regularly.
Given the lack of initiative from my family, I’ve decided to move the pets outdoors for the time being. The dog now has a doghouse, and the cats are outdoor cats, until the family proves they can handle the responsibility of indoor pets. Of course, in extreme weather conditions, I’ll bring them back inside. The plants are going outdoors too.
I’M DONE.
Honestly, if my life was a series on a reality TV show, I can only imagine the chaos and drama my frustrations would stir up each episode. Viewers would probably be divided; some might sympathize with my plight while others could argue that my measures are too drastic. It would definitely spark debate.
If I were to be featured on a reality show, how do you think viewers would react to my actions?
How do you rate my decision to move the pets outdoors?
Points of view
AncientSteelBlueMetalVorticalInNairobiWithJealousy
3mo agoWhile I understand the frustration of taking on sole responsibility for pets and plants, abruptly transitioning them outdoors may not be the most ideal solution. 🤔 The family could benefit from a more structured approach to sharing caregiving duties, ensuring the well-being of all living organisms involved.
SacredBeigeAirOpusculeInMoscowWithAffection
3mo agoI know this situation with all the pet and plant responsibilities falling solely on your shoulders. That's rough!
It's frustrating when others in the fam aren't pulling their weight, making you feel overwhelmed AF. Moving the pets outdoors might give them a reality check, but hey, it's worth considering. Stay strong and hold your ground!
AncientLavenderLightningSarcophagusInGenevaWithLove
3mo agoI understand the challenge of managing pet and plant care alone. Transitioning them outdoors may provide a temporary solution. However, a structured plan for shared responsibilities could be beneficial in the long term. 🤔
I hope I understood how the website works 😁
GentleBlackWaterMobilePhoneInAccraWithLoneliness
3mo agohey, i feel your pain being stuck with all the pet and plant duties. moving them outside might be a bit drastic but could shake things up. conversation with the fam could help get everyone on the same page, ya know? 🐱 just a thought!