I’m not gonna get into why my pet had to be rehomed, but trust me when I say it was for a very good reason. My partner actually took the action to rehome the pet because I couldn’t bring myself to go along with it. I would freeze up and have a panic attack even though it would have been a good and selfless decision. I’ve been leading almost everyone in my life to believe I still have this pet and even posting old pictures of them on social media as if they’re still with me. If the new owner ever saw my page, they would probably think I’m having some sort of mental break. I’m terrified they’ll see it and call me out, and I won’t be able to delete it fast enough. I don’t believe that I’m a bad person, but I have a very intense fear of being seen as one. I hate lying, but I sometimes get wrapped up in them to make myself look good. I understand that trying to please everyone is a waste of energy, but I care if someone thinks I’m heartless or cruel. Do I owe it to people to be honest? If I am, I honestly don’t know if I could take the heat. I’ve seen how nasty and judgmental people can be towards those who have to rehome pets. The stigma around it contributes to my fear of saying I don’t have this pet anymore.
You clearly have a lot going on, and are in your own head to an alarming degree. I know it’s cliche to suggest therapy, but you badly need it to sort yourself out. Best of luck.
@Keegan Thank you 
I agree that I need therapy. Everyone wants to be liked, and no one likes being judged, but my fear is extreme. People are hard on others who have to rehome pets because of difficult situations.
There is definitely some stigma around pet rehoming, but if you know anything about the shelter crisis currently happening, you should understand that stigma is necessary. It makes everyone think twice about rehoming.
@Denny
I think the stigma is hard to swallow. I see its points, but it also harms animals and people. Some should rehome but don’t due to judgment, so they suffer.
I’m in the UK and there isn’t the stigma to the degree that you mention. I feel for you because it takes a lot of strength to acknowledge that this people-pleasing is a problem.
Thank you! The stigma is intense here. It’s exhausting trying to create a narrative for everyone, especially online.
There’s a big difference between wanting to be liked and lying about things to achieve that. Being a liar means you can’t be trusted.
Yeah, I don’t like being a liar. I’ve told two people in my life already and they didn’t judge me for it.
It’s pretty bizarre to lie to your entire list of followers about still having the dog. It’s not good for your mental health to live an online lie.
You’re feeling righteous guilt over lying, which isn’t right. Tell the truth; you’ll feel better.
I told a friend and it felt good. She didn’t judge me for it.
Just stop posting pictures of the pet. You don’t need to make a grand announcement. Just say you don’t have the pet anymore if someone asks.
You should tell the truth. You’ll feel better about it.
If you need a break from social media, it might help you stop trying to please everyone.
I think the downvotes are for the lying part, not the rehoming. I respect when it’s for a good reason.
You did the right thing in the long run. I have a reactive dog, and it took time to adjust, but we are happy now.
People are crazy about this topic. Sometimes it’s impossible to keep a pet.
Caring about how others feel is making your situation harder. You made a decision that you felt was best.
Fuck what others think about rehoming your pet. You made a valid choice for your situation.