Pregnant woman's plea for dog-sitting during childbirth sparks outrage on Reddit.
A 34-year-old expectant mother, JHsquared, took to the online forum Reddit with a candid request: she wanted her 72-year-old mother-in-law (MIL) to care for their two dogs during her labor and delivery. However, when she mentioned that her MIL wouldn't be entrusted with her own children, the response was swift and harsh.
More than 500 Redditors criticized JHsquared's decision, with some suggesting it was unacceptable not to trust her mother-in-law with her kids. One user even quipped, "I can't really think of a way a grandmother wouldn't be offended by being told, 'I trust you to watch my dogs, but not your grandbabies'."
JHsquared had actually never discussed childcare plans with her MIL before; it was simply assumed that she would take care of the children. The mother clarified that caring for their dogs is something her MIL has done in the past without issue, but this time, the request came from a place of necessity – minimizing chaos during a stressful event.
Despite her efforts to frame the decision as a way to keep peace both at home and with her family, JHsquared's plan was met with criticism. Some users suggested that she ask friends or hire a pet sitter for the dogs instead, implying that caring for pets is an easier task than babysitting. It remains to be seen whether JHsquared's decision achieves its intended goal or causes more tension.
The incident highlights the complexities of in-law relationships and how unexpected shifts can lead to hurt feelings. As Ted Lowe, a professor quoted in the article, explained, "Families work like this; each person has their place, their rhythm. Add someone new...and things shift out of balance until the person finds their place."
A 34-year-old expectant mother, JHsquared, took to the online forum Reddit with a candid request: she wanted her 72-year-old mother-in-law (MIL) to care for their two dogs during her labor and delivery. However, when she mentioned that her MIL wouldn't be entrusted with her own children, the response was swift and harsh.
More than 500 Redditors criticized JHsquared's decision, with some suggesting it was unacceptable not to trust her mother-in-law with her kids. One user even quipped, "I can't really think of a way a grandmother wouldn't be offended by being told, 'I trust you to watch my dogs, but not your grandbabies'."
JHsquared had actually never discussed childcare plans with her MIL before; it was simply assumed that she would take care of the children. The mother clarified that caring for their dogs is something her MIL has done in the past without issue, but this time, the request came from a place of necessity – minimizing chaos during a stressful event.
Despite her efforts to frame the decision as a way to keep peace both at home and with her family, JHsquared's plan was met with criticism. Some users suggested that she ask friends or hire a pet sitter for the dogs instead, implying that caring for pets is an easier task than babysitting. It remains to be seen whether JHsquared's decision achieves its intended goal or causes more tension.
The incident highlights the complexities of in-law relationships and how unexpected shifts can lead to hurt feelings. As Ted Lowe, a professor quoted in the article, explained, "Families work like this; each person has their place, their rhythm. Add someone new...and things shift out of balance until the person finds their place."
. I mean, if she's not even having a conversation about childcare with her MIL beforehand, what else should we expect? It's not like the MIL is asking for some kind of special compensation or recognition for caring for the kids... just that she might need to step up and help out during a super stressful time 
. And yeah, if friends or pet sitters are better suited for dog-sitting, then that's what you should use 
! But honestly, I think JHsquared is being pretty chill about the whole thing and just trying to minimize drama at home 
.
. Some people are just too invested in their own opinions or they're feeling a little extra insecure about being trusted as a grandparent 
. Anyway, I think JHsquared should keep her original plan and hope for the best - it's not like she's asking her MIL to do anything drastic 
.
Some users are implying that JHsquared should just hire a pet sitter or ask friends for help, which is kinda unfair to her MIL.
It's all about finding that balance and being understanding of each other's needs. Can't we just try to be more empathetic here? 
And what about all the ppl who have to work while their spouse or partner is having a baby? Thats even harder!