[pam816]

I have a neigbor, whom I don't know, that has a Yorkie. She ties the dog outside on a short lease for 10-12 hours at a time. I would like to adopt the dog to show it love and attention. Any suggestions on how to approach her without insulting. I was thinking by letter which would be less confrontational, but I need help in writiing it. I would appreciate any suggestions.

[DoggieVogue]

Hmm this is a really sensitive situation. I think I would take a step back and not try to adopt it right away, since you don't know the neighbor or the situation with the dog. Maybe if you started talking to her and getting to know the dog as well, you could get a better feel for the situation. Perhaps she really loves the dog but doesn't have the knowledge or time to take care of it? Which is not right by any means, but perhaps you could offer to help her take care of the dog before insulting her or asking to adopt it? Then again, I've never been in this situation so I can't be sure this is the right thing either. Sorry if I'm no help Just wanted to give you some feedback.

[cigwyllt]

Why not start by calling on her with some treats for the dog - perhaps say you bought them for your dog but he doesn't like them or whatever. If you get a warm reception you can take things slowly and perhaps offer to care for the dog during the day so that it isn't tied out and then after a while offer to adopt him?

Either that or offer to buy him outright. Not for market value or anything like that, for the sort of price you would pay at a shelter. But to stand any chance of getting him away you are going to have to tread very gently and be very "nice" - not easy when you see an animal neglected and want to rescue it straight away!

Hope you are successful.

[angiesample]

Where I live any dog chained up outside must be provided with water and some kind of shelter at all times!! Is it real hot/cold outside?? If this dog isnt getting the basic needs u need to call animal control for the dogs protection. I've done this before on a woman who left her dog out 24/7 with no shelter and they took the dog to there shelter i then offered to foster the dog and i have since found the dog a great forever home. Animal control has a bad reputation but some of them really do want to help. As long as the dog is getting its basic needs met i would go over with some treats or dog food... maybe offer to take the dogs on walks or something for the owner and just go from there. Good luck!