Is it cruel to play with a neighbor's bored dog if I'll leave?

Question

I am renting an apt. in Mexico for the next 7 weeks. There is a dog in the neighbor's yard that I can see from my window and it breaks my heart, he is so bored and is left by himself in the yard all day. I think his owner takes him for a walk once a day for a half hour. My question is, if I were to ask the neighbour if I could play with the dog on a daily basis, would this be helpful or would it be cruel, knowing that I will leave eventually?

Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH · Accepted Answer

It is very generous of you to offer your time to this dog. Dogs tend to live in the moment. Although they certainly remember things, they do not have the same type of regret or sense of loss that people have, so he will remember you playing with him, but won't be sad after you leave remembering playing with you. Playing with him could also be good because the owner may see how much fun it is to play with his dog and may continue playing with him even after you leave. Good luck! I hope things work out! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Is it cruel to play with a neighbor's bored dog if I'll leave?

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