Who Really Bit the Housekeeper?
Dear Abby,
My ex-partner has a dog named Butch, a 9-year-old rescue with a history of trauma. He’s very timid, especially around children and loud noises like vacuum cleaners. I lived with Butch for nearly three years, along with my own dog, and became very familiar with his behavior.
Last year, while a housekeeper was vacuuming, Butch bit her on the calf. I was present when it happened and made sure she was okay, then separated Butch from the situation. When I told my then-partner, he seemed unconcerned.
Fast forward six months — we’ve broken up. He wanted more freedom to travel and pursue hobbies, so he gave Butch away to his niece, who has two young children. The problem is, he didn’t disclose Butch’s bite history. Worse, he told his family that it was my dog who bit the housekeeper, which is simply untrue.
I’ve voiced my concerns to his family — primarily for the safety of the children and for Butch, should something happen again. But my ex refuses to take responsibility or be honest. This feels like a dangerous situation waiting to happen, and I’m deeply worried. What should I do?
— Concerned in Michigan