The family adopted a pup from the pound and failed to get it vet care when it showed signs of kennel cough. Apparently to avoid the cost of a vet, the neighbor's live-in sister-in-law dosed it with antibiotics left over from when her husband stepped on a nail- I don't know how much the dog got, or how often she emptied the medicine cabinet into its belly; from my neighbor's description it sounded like a beyond human-size dose at random intervals. I gave them contact info for the emergency vet, but they avoided me until today. Turns out they dropped the pup off at the shelter when it was so far gone from pneumonia it needed to be put to sleep. They're blaming the dog's death on the dog, because it was obviously a 'lemon'. I feel horrible for not grabbing the pup from them when I had a chance.

I don't really have a question, I just want to know how I deal with these jackasses next time I see them (and I will, it's unavoidable. Their 2 toddlers are good friends of my small son, and we live within spittin' distance.)

And yes, I have concerns about the kids as well.

Are you concern about the kids because of the way they treated the dog or because of other things you've witnessed?

The kids are in a very unhappy home, but not a case for child services, as far as I know. I'm concerned enough to stay close and keep my eyes open. The dog situation was a last straw for me though, as far as giving these people any sort of slack, or trusting their judgement.

so, you don't support the War On Puppies?

Damn. I'm sorry. I never know how to deal with people like that. Grit your teeth.

If you have an ASPCA in your area, call them and tell them your concerns. They'll know whether or not the case can be investigated.

I agree with BoringPostcards. But after than, let it go. No good will come of dwelling on it.

You guys are right, of course. I really just needed to vent.

Poor pup was better off being put down then having to live with people like that. I don't know what to tell you about dealing with them, since your kid is friends with their kids. Let it go, so it doesn't haunt you. And like you said, keep your eyes and ears open in the future.

This is shocking and disturbing. I agree that you should watch those parents.

Shitfuckpiss, they called it a "lemon"? Assholes of the highest order.