He Pays For His Ex-Wife’s Dog, But When He Finally Refuses an Expensive Medical Bill the Couple’s Longtime Friends Must Choose Sides.
The Original Poster (OP) grapples with the predicament of his ex-wife demanding him to finance their ailing former pet’s surgery, a pet that he was reluctantly persuaded into buying during their marriage. The climax unfolds as their shared social circle becomes divided over the issue, some siding with OP’s ex-wife, and some with OP, leading to a tense yet unresolved finale.
The Dog Dilemma
OP’s ex-wife was adamant about wanting a purebred French Bulldog as a pet during their marriage. Despite OP’s pleas to consider a rescue dog or a healthier mutt, she firmly resisted. The desired breed was notoriously known for its health issues, especially breathing difficulties.
The Unwanted Companion
Eventually, OP, with his financial capability, conceded and bought the dog for his ex-wife. The dog, however, was never considered a shared pet. It was exclusively “her” dog unless adverse weather conditions forced OP to take it for walks.
The Silent Paymaster
Although the dog was primarily “hers,” OP was burdened with all the vet and dog-related expenses. Despite the dog being entirely her choice, she passed on all the unpleasant responsibilities to him. The dog was hers, but the bills belonged to OP.
Growing Apart
Over the years, the couple grew apart. They eventually decided to get a divorce – a fairly simple division as they never had any children or significant assets to split.
The Unfair Farewell
When they finalized their divorce, she obviously was left with her dog. OP was left with the memory of an unwanted dog that had become part of his routine.
The Unexpected Reconnection
After six months of no contact, she reappeared in OP’s life with concerning news about the dog. The purebred, as predicted, wasn’t faring well and required costly surgery. She sought OP’s financial assistance for the operation.
The Denied Request
Without hesitation, OP refused to pay for the surgery, resulting in his ex-wife’s fury. Despite their past and her initial insistence on the purebred dog, she expected him to shoulder the financial burden. OP was clear: he did not want to be involved.
Dog Support
OP’s ex-wife tried to appeal to his compassionate side, noting the dog’s possible death if the surgery was not performed soon. She pleaded that it was their dog and, as such, he should offer financial support for the dog’s health and well-being.
The Public Outcry
In response to OP’s denial, his ex-wife began contacting their mutual friends and family. She embarked on a campaign to pressure him into paying for the surgery. This move started stirring conflicts among their shared acquaintances.
Shifting Loyalties
Intriguingly, some of OP’s friends started taking her side, criticizing him for abandoning a creature he once cared for. The narrative was shifting, painting OP as uncaring and irresponsible. The division among friends was starting to intensify.
Standing Firm
Regardless of the mounting pressure, OP stood his ground, believing he had no obligation to help. The purchase of the dog was against his initial will, and he was always reminded of the dog being “hers.” Additionally, since the divorce, he hadn’t seen the dog for months.
The Unlikely Proposal
In a twist of events, one of OP’s dissenting friends proposed a compromise: a fundraising event to help pay for the dog’s surgery. This proposition introduced a new dynamic to the ongoing debate. Could this be the resolution to the high-stakes conflict?
The Successful Fundraiser
The fundraiser turned out to be a lackluster success, raising only a small fraction of the money needed to cover the surgery costs. OP was hopeful this avenue would secure the necessary funds, but once again, his ex-wife came back to him looking for the balance.
The Uneasy Resolution
With the funds not secured for the surgery, the issue lingers. OP is resolved not to pay “dog support” for this issue and any further health issues that may come in the future.
Was The Man’s Behavior Appropriate?
The readers in the forum had a lot of mixed views on the matter. Here are some of their responses:
Forum Responded
One reader said, “Honestly, the situation is worst for the dog most of everyone. If she wanted to keep the dog, then she inherits any and all responsibility.
It’s not like you have shared custody of the dog.”
Another Commenter Thinks
Another responder wrote: “Not your dog. Not your girlfriend/wife. Not your problem. I’d let her know if she contacts any more friends and/or family, you will file for harassment.”
A Third View On The Story
A different person states, “I don’t see how anyone who was truly your friend would think this debt is yours. If you absorbed some of her friendships, it’s probably easier to cut bait with false friends then be made to feel guilty about something that isn’t remotely your concern.”
What Do You Think?
What are your thoughts on their actions?
What would you have done in this situation?
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