Returning adopted dog

We have adopted a wonderful dog (three days ago).  However, I (the mom) have been severely depressed since then.  Don't know why.  I have a great feeling that I've gotten myself in over my head.  My seven year old son broke out into hives, and we are considering returning the dog tomorrow.  How do I break this news to my ten year old daughter (who is attached to the dog, she says)?  Will this traumatize her at all, in your opinion?  I am heartbroken for my daughter, but know in my heart that returning the dog is the right thing to do.

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

Why are you considering returning the dog? Is the decision due to the possible allergic reaction of your son? If indeed he is allergic, you really have no option - his medical wellbeing trumps any other concern. Your emotional reaction should not be the determining factor, though I'm not suggesting that you are suggesting it should be. If you must return the dog, so be it. there will be no long-term consequence to this. In the future, be sure about the medical factors before going ahead with adding a dog to the family. Also, be sure your son is allergic and that his reaction was to the dog and not to some other allergen.