What would you do as an empath??? SIGMA EMPATH PODCAST - solo rant edition:

As an #empath and #dog-lover or #animal lover in general, what would you do in this situation?
#Pet #neglect and #abuse comes in different forms. Sometimes it's a total denial of any level of animal dignity... sometimes it's naive #negligence. Either way, it always comes down town a lack of accountability, insensitivity and responsibility. #psychology

[@LaurenGarner-p5f]

Coming from another animal loving empath, I'd say your heart is in the right place! You've tried on several occasions to inform the said neighbors that their dog is running around in the neighborhood and you're concerned for it's safety. They on the other hand, seem to be blazie about it, or they would be taking steps towards remedying the situation. Or maybe they have, but aren't being diligent enough. I feel much like you and I'd be so grateful if my pup somehow got out of my fenced yard or house unbeknownst to me. In my opinion, at this point which you find yourself, I think you could possibly try to have a calm conversation with them, letting them know your concerns and perhaps, if you feel their defenses aren't up, make suggestions to them on how to prevent this from happening in the future. If on the other hand they're not receptive, you have nothing left to do, but call the authorities if it happens again. You can let them know, that your conscience will not allow you to do nothing and you want to protect their dog, so you will do what must be done. I believe the safety of life comes way before the concern I might have for causing friction. To me it's not a choice, but I do understand your hesitancy. BTW: My pups have saved my life too. The unconditional love and deep connection I've shared with my precious pups through the years has been amazing and I am truly grateful for their presence in my life and forever in my heart. At present, I have an American Eskimo and a Maine Coon who are best of buddies. We recently lost our sweet boy of 14 yrs to congestive heart failure and 3 years prior, my ❤gal who understood everything about me without having to say a word. I'm not me without a dog in my life.....by my side. ❤

[@VitalTheSigmaEmpath]

@@LaurenGarner-p5f great insight. Thank you

[@pattyr8142]

I have Morkie and Chichihua . I love my girls and their unconditional love help me through my toxic divorce. I would (me) take the dog and find a loving home. Multiple times is questionable. They don't want the dog.

[@VitalTheSigmaEmpath]

@@pattyr8142 unconsidered that. Thanks

[@blackeneddove]

Where do you live!? 😂 Your neighborhood sounds like mine! No speed bumps, cars speeding through when they shouldn’t, delivery trucks, etc. I know the feeling! I have been in a similar circumstance. I share a backyard fence with a neighbor. This was probably 7-8 years ago now, but their little dog used to get into my yard all the time through a hole in the fence. And the fence slat is on their side to fix, so I couldn’t do much about it. Even though he was a small dog, I didn’t want him in my yard because I had two dogs of my own at the time (now passed, 2020 & 2022 😢) who were still much smaller than him and I could not take the risk that he wouldn’t hurt my little boy or girl.🐶 Since I could never get their dog to go through back through the hole in the fence, and I also didn’t want him in my car as I didn’t know what he might do to my car seats, I would pick him up and literally carry him all the way to their house, nearly a block away. I did this multiple times. At least 10. 😅 They didn’t really care and I would try to talk to them, there was a language barrier. Eventually though after the many times of me going to their house, they did work with me to fix the fence and I haven’t had any more issues. I also don’t know if it’s because they got a different dog or not because after a while I didn’t see him anymore. I do see another dog back there now though, but still no issues as they have put up chicken wire so he can’t get though. Sorry, I went on a mini rant myself. 😅 I know exactly why you did what you did. However, (I’m sure you know this) Trespassing is never good. 😅😅 So I am glad they didn’t do anything crazy! I don’t know what state you live in, but in Texas where I live, doing what you did could get you shot regardless of if you know someone or not. It is easy for people to feel threatened, especially when you are suddenly tapping on their window and in their backyard uninvited. 😅 I am honestly glad you’re still alive. Since you are asking what we would have done, I probably would have picked the dog up and put him in past their gate to the backyard, since it wasn’t locked. And if he didn’t go in, or if I didn’t feel safe picking up, or was unable to do so due to size, etc., I would have sadly had to leave him. Especially if I had somewhere else to go. I have been forced to do this on more than one occasion, but it was with people I didn’t know and animals which may, or may not have been theirs. I ended up writing them a hand-written note saying I saw a dog and leaving a description, asking if the dog was theirs and if it was and if they had any questions about it they could call me. I even did this with a baby chick, and also a rooster I saw out randomly on separate occasions! 😂 It has taken me a long time to come to understand that I can’t save all of the animals all of the time, even though I *really* try. And I really want to. I am one of those people who stops whenever I see a stray dog and will look for a collar. (I have even been late to work before doing this. 😅) And if they don’t have identification, I will try to take pictures of animal to try and find their owner on pawboost or the Nextdoor app. 😂 I do the same with cats as I love both! But after many years and much reflection, I am beginning to realize that by doing my best, I have done what I can. And you did your best, by ringing their doorbell and returning their dog. You tried to lookout for its well being the best you could. You took reasonable responsibility. And it wasn’t the first time you did, so it’s not like they didn’t know they were being irresponsible. By going into their backyard, you could have unintentionally harmed your own wellbeing. I would say that going into some else’s backyard who hasn’t given you express permission, without it being an actual life or death situation, is just not safe. And in many places, probably illegal. People are crazy! You have to look out for yourself, too. Please remember, your life is also very important. 😊 As for myself, this past year, 2024, I have been working hard to try to relinquish my unconscious need for control. It is painful for me when things go wrong, especially when I feel as though I could have prevented the bad thing that happened. So, ultimately I would usually feel as though what went wrong was my fault, leading to a lot of sorrow and guilt. Even moments of depression. Last year (2024), I tried to save a feral cat who was sick and came to my door. I used to feed him off and on over the years, so I knew him, but he wasn’t a cat you could keep indoors. It was right before Christmas, and I didn’t have any money. But I couldn’t leave him to suffer, so I decided to try and raise money for him online (my first time doing something like that). By the grace of God and the shear kindness of strangers, my fundraiser was successful, and I was able to get him a surgery and vet care. Things were looking good. I kept him in my garage to take care of him for a week after his surgery. It was against his will, 😅 but it was during a freeze, so bought him a space heater so he would recover well. He eventually accepted that I wasn’t going to let him out. 😂 Things were going good, and he seemed to be recovering well. I did all that I could. After he seemed well enough, and he was super stir crazy, I let him outside. But for whatever reason, not many days after, he took a turn for the worst and ended up dying anyway. It was very traumatic, and tragic, because I tried as hard as I could. And despite everything, it didn’t matter. It will be one year ago sometime next week that I found him passed away in the middle of my backyard. It still sucks for me to think about the “what ifs” and if there is anything more that I could have done. It is hard for me not to blame myself for him not being alive today. I didn’t realize I was being controlling in this way until someone told me. That l have no control over life or death. As if I didn’t know this, but it really hit me that I was actually trying to control this, and that I felt as though I could control outcomes this in some way. They reminded me that I did more than most would. And that he lived longer than he would have if I hadn’t stepped in to help as much as I could. And that he was a least loved and cared for at the end. It is still hard for me to deal with, but I know I am making progress. I began to self reflect and realized that I always try to control things that I think I can. For me, it usually comes in the form of trying to care for animals. 😅😅 When I think of your particular case, with your neighbor’s dog… just like you, I would have thought the same thing: if I saw that dog dead in the road when I got back home I would have blamed myself and ugly cried. I don’t know how I would have lived with myself. But in reality, if the dog’s death happened, it wouldn’t be on your hands. You cannot control this sort of thing. It’s death would not have been your fault, though feeling guilty over it is something that I understand. It is something I know I have to work on. Certain things are beyond our control. We can be sad, but need to try to relinquish guilt over these things, especially when we do all that we can. Watching your videos these past couple days after finding your channel, I see so much of myself in you. It is a very strange thing for me to observe, as I have never seen someone so much like me as you seem to be from what I have seen in your videos. It’s almost like looking in a mirror. 😂 I guess I need to meet empaths in real life! Now, where to find them when we are all so busy being introverts! Haha! Again, I am glad you are ok!! ❤❤️❤️ Sorry my comment is so long. 😅

[@Sharron247]

I understand your frustration. Too often, I find myself in situations that I'm not prepared for. When I feel I'm forced to deal with "whatever," my tone or approach is always focused on more than the act itself. No matter how serious the situation may be. In my opinion, you did the correct thing. Sounds like the young lady and her fellow just changed the narrative and made it about you and not the dog. Sometimes, dealing with certain ppl, especially some neighbors, can be quite tricky.

[@VitalTheSigmaEmpath]

@@Sharron247 tricky indeed

[@dellashanker8395]

I've had a similar situation with my neighbours dog. I put them to the test after several trips to their house notifying them that their dog is roaming about outside. Eventually I took the dog in and waited to see how long before they notice he is missing... She was with me for a good half hour before I could hear them calling her name...

[@VitalTheSigmaEmpath]

Great idea... i'd pick up the dog and bring him in if I was sure he wouldn't bite me. Thanks for sharing.

[@Amber-b3g]

Definitely get advice from local authorities.. Pity the dog is aggressive. Taking on owners energy. Not enough love. Lots of love to you. I adore my furr family. Better than most humans 🤣🥲🥹

[@VitalTheSigmaEmpath]

@@Amber-b3g ❤️❤️❤️

[@laurak.donham8374]

As a follow up. Today our neighbor's two dogs got out. They dug a hole under their fence in order to chase after squirrels. I spotted them in a neighbors yard. My housemate ran out and contained them and texted pet stewards. They were soooooo thankful!! And my housemate was able to spot the hole dug under fence so they could contain them. They thanked us verbally and sent several thank you texts. All of our panic buttons were turned on and heart's activated with concern. So not on you dude.

[@VitalTheSigmaEmpath]

@@laurak.donham8374 thanks for sharing this!

[@bunnyliberationfront]

Have been in a similar situation before with a neighbour about 7 houses down, except dog was chained up outside without adequate shelter in all weathers. 'Owners' or 'Guardians' just said "she's a guard dog" when I knocked on their door asking about her. No respect or consideration for her safety though. Eventually took the dog and found her a home very far away (with the help of a few like-minded friends). Its difficult being right next door though so you might need someone else to do the deed. (Please feel free to delete this comment!) If you tried the face to face method and nothing is changing, they clearly arent conscious of the dangers the dog faces. They may have big trauma or addiction issues. In my opinion you did right returning the dog. If they didnt leave the dog out, you wouldnt have to go in?! 😂 In the UK nowadays its not safe (its never really been safe) for dogs to be out alone for various reasons. Ireland for example though is still like in the 90's, dogs roam often or take themselves out for a wander. My concern is that if they dont let the dog out, they will never walk the dog (another set of worries). Best of luck, if you were local, I'd help😅 From a highly empathic animal rights activist and animal accomplice vegan of 20 years😊 (veggie from age 9) And fellow dog walker/sitter, animal obsessive for life! Always adopt, don't shop! I have always rescued and fostered dogs, the one who lives with me atm is a failed foster 😅 he was too sensitive and intelligent, I couldnt risk him being neglected again. Go raibh maith agat (may you have goodness) And Thankyou for your work 🙏💜💎

[@08srmc01]

In Las Vegas, it's a no-go for dogs to roam off-leash in public spaces. Owners are supposed to keep their dogs leashed unless they're in designated dog parks. Letting a dog run loose is actually a misdemeanor, which could mean fines or even jail time for the owner. You've tried the friendly route... These are my suggestions: Document Everything: Keep a log of when you see the dog running loose, any interactions you have with your neighbor, and any incidents that occur. Contact Animal Protection Services: Since talking hasn't worked, it might be time to get the authorities involved. Avoid Confrontation: For now, steer clear of direct interactions with your neighbor about this issue. Let the professionals handle it to avoid any unnecessary drama. Protect Your Own Dogs: Until the situation is resolved, consider adjusting your walking times or routes to avoid any run-ins with your neighbor. Do not empower your neighbor. Time to back off..... I am an animal lover as well, from butterflies to Clydesdale horses..to mean animals, timid ones, hurt ones, etc. I feel I can relate to any of them. I have a cat who is my loyal companion with a special bond of trust, communication, and mental support. Not many understand the love I have for this animal...

[@VitalTheSigmaEmpath]

@@08srmc01 🙏🏽

[@SentoriaFAIRLEY]

I will call animal control and explain what is going on, and they will give you information on what you can and can't do. The owner is not going to do anything about it regardless of what you say because they don't care.i hope this helps you 😊🙏✨️

[@VitalTheSigmaEmpath]

That is the next step. THANKS!

[@laurak.donham8374]

Our current beloved are a toy terrier Schnauzer (silly funny muppet of a dog) that brings so much joy. And our "orange" cats. Our pets are like Amakua (guardian animals). I love watching videos of people helping wild animals in need etc always lifts my spirit and renews my faith in humanity. These people are negative and do not appear to care about the safety of their dog. Honestly, I would go into nature and call upon their higherselves or as some refer to that aspect of our bring the I Am Presence and ask that aspect to handle the situation. I would invoke and ask for protection for yourself and the dog. When people react defensively when being called upon their responsibility, and then try to switch and distract from issue by dumping blame on you, that is a major red flag. If you call animal rights protection services, that may backfire on you. So I would work with it energetically and then await the insight as to how to respond. My mom when to a neighbor to ask him to take care of his dog and address 24/7 barking and that person took a gun and shot his dog! If you have an association in your neighborhood you might bring it up so it is a neighborhood issue - people do not want to run over dog - rather than personal dispute.

[@VitalTheSigmaEmpath]

@@laurak.donham8374 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@KatherineBarton-e6z]

Maybe another neighbor could talk to them either with or without you? They certainly don’t care about the dog. I have a small dog a dachshund and I would be frantic If he got loose and I could not find him. It’s the same feeling when your child is missing even for a second so I understand how you feel. Dogs mean everything ! They are really no different than children. Hopefully this will be resolved favorably for the dog sake. You’re a good person for caring. 🙏❤️🕊️

[@VitalTheSigmaEmpath]

@@KatherineBarton-e6z I do hope we find a resolution. THANKS

[@correenmills3377]

I love dogs, cats, all animals really but I don’t have any of my own. I feed the neighborhood cats and they come and visit me on there own to chill sometimes because I treat them well. Even though I don’t own them I consider them friends of mine. (In your case ) I would probably buy an extra leash and take the neighbors dog for a walk with you while you walk your own. Just a suggestion. If it’s not too much of a hassle for you. 💜

[@VitalTheSigmaEmpath]

Great suggestion. If this happened a LOT, then absolutely :)

[@lizettephyfer1660]

You have done your part.. By trying to educate your nabour how to care for your pet. Now you report it to the attorrity to remove the dog if it happens again. It is what I would have done. Best wishes. Take care.

[@LuckyLioness369]

They are young souls, unfortunately. If you do nothing, and their dog is hit by a car, they will play victims and have their sob story for anyone to hear. I’ve encountered skanks like this. I’ve asked them, “Do you want this dog or not?” When they look at me with shock and give me attitude, I then respond with, “Because you’re not taking care of it properly. There’s no excuse for allowing your pet to roam around. Keep your dog safe or find a good home for it. It’s your karma if something happens to this animal.” Then I sashay off. That guy has some brass ones to come around at 10:00PM at night! I don’t answer the door. Thank you for having a heart for animals. May you, your animals, and your home, be surrounded by Angels of Protection and may those neighbors get a clue.

[@VitalTheSigmaEmpath]

@@LuckyLioness369 🤍🤍🤍

[@MercyKat]

The poor dog deserves better owners who don't neglect its safety needs. They sound like the type of people who will blame whoever ends up running over their dog instead of themselves. I'd be done with them. They showed who they were by getting upset with you for saving their dog. Smile and wave, as we say in nursing.

[@VitalTheSigmaEmpath]

@@MercyKat 🤍🤍🤍

[@jilross4892]

I think you done the right thing, if you call animal welfare you might be in trouble with the neighbours. But who cares if they are so neglectful, they should not even have a dog. Issue is that even the animal rescue sometimes dont care. I reported in the past but they did nothing.

[@VitalTheSigmaEmpath]

@@jilross4892 🥲🥲🥲🙏🏽🤍

[@Angela091163]

Avoid entering the backyard of an unknown residence under ANY circumstances! Consider moving to a coastal state (except those small slivers of Georgia and Alabama.)

[@VitalTheSigmaEmpath]

@@Angela091163 moving??? Pretty drastic due to a dog???

[@Angela091163]

@ The dog is a sign from The Universe! Think about it. Dogs are granted swifter and more exacting protection than humans when facing “challenges.” A person of color in Henderson, NV bringing attention to the dog’s predicament brings a laser-sharp focus not on the dog - but on the person of color citing the injustice to the dog (you.) This is why I suggest : Move from the “fly over area” before you are “moved to move.”

[@VitalTheSigmaEmpath]

@ that makes sense.. but NOT to the SOUTH!!!

[@Angela091163]

@@VitalTheSigmaEmpath If you know the enemy and you know yourself, your victory will not stand in doubt; if you know Heaven and you know Earth, you may make your victory complete. Sun Tzu “The Deep South” is not just a physical location of states - the mentality, politics and culture of the region are EVERYWHERE.

[@Angela091163]

“Coastal states” - East Coast, West Coast, Deep South.

[@Blb477]

Hmmm..difficult..I vote for the best thing for the dogs safety. Could you speak to the owners who you have a relationship with. Tell them you’re worried about the dogs safety and it’s becoming a pattern finding it running in the street..like a child..they don’t understand the danger. Advise them you’ll need to call animal control to retrieve the pet from you if they don’t answer the door. Say you want to avoid the stress of going into the back yard etc. and that you aren’t able to take it to your home..you shouldn’t have to do that. This way they can’t be surprised and were forewarned ahead of time. I feel for you. I don’t have any pets. Had a farm with free range chickens and cats and our neighbors cow came down our driveway and a dog got out with the sheep. That was sticky. We were agricultural zoned. It would have been in our right to shoot the dog..but of course we wouldn’t have done that..again it was an unreasonable pet owner that put their dog at risk. I walk outside everyday and feed the birds! I’m in Colorado. Just found your channel and I feel very seen. Feels good here! Our tribe. Big open authentic hearts towards all living beings!! ❤❤

[@VitalTheSigmaEmpath]

@@Blb477 big open hearts indeed 🤍🤍🤍

[@debbieK3131]

Oh my, ungrateful neighbor! While your heart is in the right place, please be careful going in others yards…people are crazy. Call the HOA, are they the owners? renters?

[@VitalTheSigmaEmpath]

they are renters... yes, i won't go into their backyard again. Thanks Debbie.

[@debbieK3131]

@@VitalTheSigmaEmpath good 🙏🏽

[@Angela091163]

Rocky Kanaka. Period.

[@virginiawolf1708]

Report them to animal cruelty and pray for the dog then mind your business.

[@VitalTheSigmaEmpath]

@@virginiawolf1708 🙏🏽

[@reginad.2860]

This situation is draining your energy and lowers your frequency. This is not good for you. Let it go. We empaths can not fix everybody. This is not our business.

[@soosoo1965]

🤍

[@VitalTheSigmaEmpath]

@@soosoo1965 🤍

[@lauranye4538]

Have you tried calling Animal control? Maybe if they come out and talk to them.

[@VitalTheSigmaEmpath]

@@lauranye4538 next step indeed

[@sandytx7661]

Oooooooo, ☺️don’t like dogs. I was chased and bitten by a dog several times😳……BUT I have 2 Horses that I love.

[@VitalTheSigmaEmpath]

@@sandytx7661 🤍🤍🤍