Ask Joey-How many dogs are too many?

June 18, 2009 by doggymom
Filed under Ask Joey

Ask Joey-How many dogs is too many? Mr. Bean's Holiday release

Dear Joey,

How many dogs are too many? My family has always had one or two dogs but ever since my 2 brothers and I have moved out, my mother has been collecting dogs. She is up to 8. Do you think she may have a problem?

Richard R.

Dear Richard,

Some people keep a large number of dogs and do just fine. But then there are some who become hoarders. They can't stop adopting dogs.

Your mom may be suffering from "Empty Nest Syndrome" since all her human kids have left home. That is probably what triggered this. Is your dad still around? What does he think about all these dogs?

I would be concerned about the dogs too. Have they been spayed and neutered? Are they receiving the medical care, food, grooming, love and attention they need? Is your mother able to still keep the house relatively sanitary?

Something else to be aware of is that most areas have a limit on the number of dogs that you can own. In our area it's 6 dogs.

Try to talk to your mom about all of this and share your concerns. You may need to enlist the aid of your brothers, father or other family members. If all this fails, discuss the situation with your mom's doctor.

Good luck and keep us updated.