When my sister left her dog with me for “a few months,” I never imagined six years later she’d demand him back — after I became his whole world.
The Backstory and Early Dynamics
Six years ago, my sister moved abroad for what was supposed to be a short-term job assignment. She asked me to take care of her dog — a sweet, loyal pup — for “just a few months.”
I agreed, thinking it was temporary. But months turned into years. She settled into her life overseas, while I built a new one that included her dog as part of my daily routine. I paid for everything — food, vet bills, grooming — and trained him myself. He became family.
The Moment Things Shifted
Recently, my sister returned home. The first thing she did was ask to see “her” dog. When she came over, the dog barely recognized her at first. He stayed by my side, tail wagging nervously.
That’s when she said she wanted him back — “He’s still technically mine.” Her tone made it sound like I’d been holding her property hostage.
The Final Confrontation
I told her no. I explained that after six years, this wasn’t just a dog I was taking care of — he was my companion. I’d raised him, cared for him through sickness and storms, and watched him grow older. Taking him away now would break both our hearts.
She got angry. She said I was selfish and unreasonable, that I was “keeping her dog hostage.” I said I’d never planned on this, but he’s part of my life now — and she left him long enough to make that happen.
The Fallout
Now, we barely talk. She keeps texting, insisting it’s unfair. But deep down, I feel like the one who’s been there — the one who showed up every single day for six years.
I love my sister, but I can’t imagine life without him. And I’m not sure he can either.
What Reddit Thinks
Most Redditors sided with the poster — calling it a clear NTA (Not the Ahole)** situation. Six years is more than temporary care — it’s a full adoption by action and love.
Sample comments:
- “If she wanted her dog back, she should’ve come back sometime in the last six years! NTA.”
- “You paid for his care, trained him, and gave him stability. He’s your dog now.”
- “Imagine being gone six years and expecting your dog to remember you like nothing happened. That’s heartbreaking.”
A few users pointed out the sister’s emotional attachment might make her blind to how much time has passed — but most agreed: love and effort trump technical ownership.
A Final Thought
At what point does ownership stop being about paperwork — and start being about who actually stayed?