They forced him to choose between his dog and his family and he chose his dog

Imagine that you are in the middle of a zombie apocalypse or a strong flood and you have to choose who of your loved ones you would save. Obviously the person you take with you is worthy of all your love, but would you choose your dog or your family?

Although this is a simple assumption, Reddit user Recj7929 shared his story, in which his mother forced him to decide between being with her or next to his dog, who was a faithful companion of his father, who passed away years ago. His decision already divides the internet, but his motives are so strong that they will touch your heart.

My dad died in a work accident when I was 15, now I’m 17. Last year my mom started dating Anthony and they just got engaged. Anthony wanted to move, but the problem is that he is very allergic to dogs. My mom told me we had to get rid of Dax, my dog. And he made it clear that it was not a question, but a direct order of what we are going to do.

I fought with my mother about this because he is my family and he is what helped me through the loss of my dad. Dax was my father’s dog, he rescued him from a shelter when he was still a puppy and we had him since I was 11 years old. So it means a lot to me. But my mom doesn’t seem to understand.

We fought so much that I cried. No one wanted to adopt Dax and I had to beg my grandfather on my father’s side to take him or else my mother would throw him out. The problem is that my grandfather lives an hour away and cannot do many physical things like taking him for a walk, feeding him, taking him to the vet, etc. And there is no one around to help you take care of a dog.

My grandfather suggested that I could move in with him, since all my classes are at Zoom. I told my mom that I wanted to move in with my grandfather to be with Dax. She got very angry, she says that (she and Anthony) are my family and I need to be with them, but I made two things clear to her:

1. Anthony is not my family. I have my own problems with him because he keeps talking about being my new father and I don’t like that.

2. Dax is my family, I’m not getting rid of him. Besides, my grandfather is also my family.

Last week I got my things out and my uncle helped me move into my grandfather’s house. My mom is still mad. She’s not going to force me back, but she keeps saying that I’m not being a good son, that I’m choosing to be with a dog over them. But in the end I made a decision. Do you think I did the right thing?

Firm and safe decisions

NTA, you made the right decision, you are in a supportive environment with your best friend and that is all that matters. This is also a good time to set boundaries with your mother and her future spouse. Be clear that you are moving forward and have no intention of returning.

Sometimes a little empathy is lacking

I see many stories about how parents expect their children to automatically accept their new partners when they remarry. It blows my mind that they think that will happen. NTA

The family never leave you

NTA, the dog is family and I’m sure your grandfather is happy to have you around.

Happiness is in different places

Absolutely, NTA. Your mom is choosing her fiancé over you and your happiness. Yes, she deserves the right to be happy too, just not at your expense. I’m glad to know that you are now in a supportive environment with people who support and love you no matter what. Enjoy the rest of the time with Dax. Dogs really are a best friend.