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This Pregnant Couple Was Told To Get Rid Of Their Dogs, And This Is What They Did In Response
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This Pregnant Couple Was Told To Get Rid Of Their Dogs, And This Is What They Did In Response

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When dog-owning couple Sanjana Madappa and Aditya Raheja got pregnant, they did something quite the opposite to what was expected from them. “I was told by family, friends and even my doctor to get rid of my dogs, that my baby came first,” Sanjana told Buzzfeed. This advice was too heartbreaking for a young woman to grasp. “I don’t know how people can bring a child into the world, while letting go of another at the same time.” So, as a response, the lovebirds from Bangalore, India, decided to celebrate the arrival of the human baby by including their ‘furry kids’ into their pre-natal photoshoot and showing that their pets are part of the family too.

The couple got married two years ago. Aditya is an estate developer while his wife Sanjana works at an animal welfare organization called CUPA. Due to the nature of her job, the two ended up raising a lot of dogs.

Their son Ayan was born a week after the photoshoot. “I had an unreasonably difficult pregnancy… and I was restricted to the confines of my home,” Sanjana wrote. “Taking care of my dogs ensured I never felt the need to blame my pregnancy, the baby, or my husband for the state I was in.”

More info: Facebook (h/t)

Meet Sanjana Madappa and Aditya Raheja, a happy Indian couple who got married two years ago

Sanjana works at an animal welfare organization. Due to the nature of her job, the two ended up raising a lot of dogs

When the couple got pregnant, everyone, including their doctor, family, and friends started telling them to give away their canines

“I was told by family, friends and even my doctor to get rid of my dogs, that my baby came first”

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The couple didn’t listen, in fact they did something completely opposite…

A pre-natal photoshoot that included their furry kids and showed that their pets are part of the family too

“I don’t know how people can bring a child into the world, while letting go of another at the same time”

Their son Ayan was born a week after the photoshoot

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“I had an unreasonably difficult pregnancy… and I was restricted to the confines of my home”

“Taking care of my dogs ensured I never felt the need to blame my pregnancy, the baby, or my husband for the state I was in”

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emreinar avatar
Emre
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We had the same stupid dialogues through the end of the pregnancy. And I told everyone that we have 2 kids from now on. People asked if we will give away our dog because we're having a baby. And I asked, did you gave away your first kid when you have the second one?

mastermarkus avatar
Master Markus
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yeah, I can't understand people who think like that. I have an emotional connection to my dog! It's not just a thing I keep around so that I can have responsibilities until I have to be responsible for something else!

Load More Replies...
pearldsouza avatar
pearl dsouza
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is so beautiful!!! That's exactly how a happy family should look like. :)

cheri149 avatar
Heather Cheri
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Awe, this is a great story. Exactly how I feel about my fur babies and children. They are ALL my babies. :-)

flakyhtf14 avatar
Anca Burcuş
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I grew up with dogs and cats and i don't know how i would've coped with bullying trough grade school if i did have my pets growing up. When i came back home after a hard day they were always there to play with me and cheer me up. The best gift you can give your child is the unconditional love of pets.

sasyscarborough avatar
Sasy
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The I'm waiting picture was so perfect, every child deserves the unconditional love of an animal, and these parents have shown such love and adoration for their pets, good on them for not listening to the others. I am sure if there was a valid reason they would have taken measures, but just because a kid should come first, does not mean because you have animals you cannot prioritise correctly.

sassybooie avatar
Meeow
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for not giving up the fur babies. Unfortunately many people still doing that. When they don't have their own yet then they get the cat or dog for temporary those who does that need to banned for life.

debbie5263 avatar
Debbie Coneybeare
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It makes me angry when I see posts for Dogs to be rehomed because the women are pregnant, just like everyone else has said you wouldn't give away your first child for your second! It's selfishness and laziness to not keep your furbaby. Good on these two and everyone else who keep thier babies.

debbie5263 avatar
Debbie Coneybeare
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hannah if you really think that dogs or cats aren't family too then please don't ever get a pet!

Load More Replies...
circular-motion avatar
Mer
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I can't stand when people assume that just because you're adding to your family you're automatically supposed to take from it! Our pets - cats, dogs, whatever... - they ARE family.

cassiewilliams avatar
Cassie
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Those dogs look to be well trained and well cared for. I could understand concerns if the family had dogs that exhibited erratic behaviors or a lack of control, but that doesn't appear to be the case here. This couple appears capable of assessing and mitigating potential risk. Good on them for not giving into fear.

lgapelna-grinberga avatar
Līga Pelna - Grinberga
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In this case - you should just be extra, EXTRA careful, just reminding that dogs are animals and they used to be wolves and hunters, especially if there's more than one and these are pretty big dogs...It takes huge responsibility never leave a baby alone (or with someone who dont know dog training )with them while he/she is smaller than dogs. Recently there was a terrible tragedy in Latvia with 5 year old girl who had grown up together with 4 big dogs, beloved members of the family, properly trained etc.,until one day while playing in the garden they stayed alone - the consequences were tragic, and a grandmother who noticed that too late could not do anything - cause there were 4 big animals whos's real master just wasn't at home...Love them, keep them - just please be aware of reality.

pun-in-wunderland avatar
Pi...
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm from there! Lol...it would be awesome to meet these amazing ppl. Thank you for NOT taking that s****y advice and keeping ur first babes!

sashabharti avatar
Sasha Bharti
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You need to find some better friends ,as for your family and doctor well it's nothing to do with them my dogs will always be my first born!

momma0820 avatar
Amanda Rocha
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I absolutely love this family! They are all so adorable!!! Don't let the opinions of others dictate your life. You have a beautiful family. (My daughter is going to be so jealous of your pups.)

rhon avatar
Rhon
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why on earth would anyone give away their pets just because they're having a baby? That's the most stupid advice I've ever heard! its so much better for the child to grow up with pets, they'll have a greater understanding of caring for animals if it's been a part of their lives right from the start.

susanlayton74 avatar
Susan Layton
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Its beautiful, this young couple have common sense, love and brains. Such a change from reading the ignorance of some people about animals. I wish them all every happiness.

lamijunk_2013 avatar
Notchimine Mette
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Until the dogs eat the baby!! No, just kidding. This is wonderful. I love the "Big Sister" sign! :)

isabelarango avatar
Isabel Arango
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Good for you guys!! Pets are family too Your kid, will grown up with the best company she could ever ask for!

jillvillechildcare avatar
JillVille Child Care
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We got our first pup when we found out we were expecting, so we could have a family with a puppy that was raised to be mindful and loving to the baby. Which is exactly what happened. 4 children and 7 dogs later, our family has enjoyed both fur and human babies together immensely. P.S. - if that "Big Sister" ever needs a new home, just let me know, she's a beauty!

shanake_ avatar
Shana
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Awesome that these people stood up for their dogs. Pets are a part of the family, can't believe those friends/family would say to get rid of them because they're having a baby...

imbriuminarian avatar
Bunzilla
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Pets can make some of the best big siblings. My mother had two sister cats that she had raised from orphaned babies. They were like my big sisters. They were the sweetest little things, they watched over me, curled up next to me, called my mother when I was upset. Pets and kids just go together!

arthz143 avatar
Darth Vader
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The fur kids will make the best big brothers and big sisters ever! Showing unconditional love to the little one. I can never understand abandoning animals who are already part of your life. This is such a lovely story :)

hannah_honey avatar
Hannah Honey
Community Member
7 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

When you don't take the advice of all of your friends AND your family AND your doctor, then you are not fulfilling your parental responsibility and putting your human child first, as should be done.

bellaisnotcool246 avatar
Bella
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In the end it's their decision, i'm sure they are perfectly capable of looking after both the dogs and the baby.

Load More Replies...
boredpanda_5 avatar
Sam Spade
Community Member
7 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

They're BOTH pregnant? How come it only shows on her?

emreinar avatar
Emre
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We had the same stupid dialogues through the end of the pregnancy. And I told everyone that we have 2 kids from now on. People asked if we will give away our dog because we're having a baby. And I asked, did you gave away your first kid when you have the second one?

mastermarkus avatar
Master Markus
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yeah, I can't understand people who think like that. I have an emotional connection to my dog! It's not just a thing I keep around so that I can have responsibilities until I have to be responsible for something else!

Load More Replies...
pearldsouza avatar
pearl dsouza
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is so beautiful!!! That's exactly how a happy family should look like. :)

cheri149 avatar
Heather Cheri
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Awe, this is a great story. Exactly how I feel about my fur babies and children. They are ALL my babies. :-)

flakyhtf14 avatar
Anca Burcuş
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I grew up with dogs and cats and i don't know how i would've coped with bullying trough grade school if i did have my pets growing up. When i came back home after a hard day they were always there to play with me and cheer me up. The best gift you can give your child is the unconditional love of pets.

sasyscarborough avatar
Sasy
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The I'm waiting picture was so perfect, every child deserves the unconditional love of an animal, and these parents have shown such love and adoration for their pets, good on them for not listening to the others. I am sure if there was a valid reason they would have taken measures, but just because a kid should come first, does not mean because you have animals you cannot prioritise correctly.

sassybooie avatar
Meeow
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for not giving up the fur babies. Unfortunately many people still doing that. When they don't have their own yet then they get the cat or dog for temporary those who does that need to banned for life.

debbie5263 avatar
Debbie Coneybeare
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It makes me angry when I see posts for Dogs to be rehomed because the women are pregnant, just like everyone else has said you wouldn't give away your first child for your second! It's selfishness and laziness to not keep your furbaby. Good on these two and everyone else who keep thier babies.

debbie5263 avatar
Debbie Coneybeare
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hannah if you really think that dogs or cats aren't family too then please don't ever get a pet!

Load More Replies...
circular-motion avatar
Mer
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I can't stand when people assume that just because you're adding to your family you're automatically supposed to take from it! Our pets - cats, dogs, whatever... - they ARE family.

cassiewilliams avatar
Cassie
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Those dogs look to be well trained and well cared for. I could understand concerns if the family had dogs that exhibited erratic behaviors or a lack of control, but that doesn't appear to be the case here. This couple appears capable of assessing and mitigating potential risk. Good on them for not giving into fear.

lgapelna-grinberga avatar
Līga Pelna - Grinberga
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In this case - you should just be extra, EXTRA careful, just reminding that dogs are animals and they used to be wolves and hunters, especially if there's more than one and these are pretty big dogs...It takes huge responsibility never leave a baby alone (or with someone who dont know dog training )with them while he/she is smaller than dogs. Recently there was a terrible tragedy in Latvia with 5 year old girl who had grown up together with 4 big dogs, beloved members of the family, properly trained etc.,until one day while playing in the garden they stayed alone - the consequences were tragic, and a grandmother who noticed that too late could not do anything - cause there were 4 big animals whos's real master just wasn't at home...Love them, keep them - just please be aware of reality.

pun-in-wunderland avatar
Pi...
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm from there! Lol...it would be awesome to meet these amazing ppl. Thank you for NOT taking that s****y advice and keeping ur first babes!

sashabharti avatar
Sasha Bharti
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You need to find some better friends ,as for your family and doctor well it's nothing to do with them my dogs will always be my first born!

momma0820 avatar
Amanda Rocha
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I absolutely love this family! They are all so adorable!!! Don't let the opinions of others dictate your life. You have a beautiful family. (My daughter is going to be so jealous of your pups.)

rhon avatar
Rhon
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why on earth would anyone give away their pets just because they're having a baby? That's the most stupid advice I've ever heard! its so much better for the child to grow up with pets, they'll have a greater understanding of caring for animals if it's been a part of their lives right from the start.

susanlayton74 avatar
Susan Layton
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Its beautiful, this young couple have common sense, love and brains. Such a change from reading the ignorance of some people about animals. I wish them all every happiness.

lamijunk_2013 avatar
Notchimine Mette
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Until the dogs eat the baby!! No, just kidding. This is wonderful. I love the "Big Sister" sign! :)

isabelarango avatar
Isabel Arango
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Good for you guys!! Pets are family too Your kid, will grown up with the best company she could ever ask for!

jillvillechildcare avatar
JillVille Child Care
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We got our first pup when we found out we were expecting, so we could have a family with a puppy that was raised to be mindful and loving to the baby. Which is exactly what happened. 4 children and 7 dogs later, our family has enjoyed both fur and human babies together immensely. P.S. - if that "Big Sister" ever needs a new home, just let me know, she's a beauty!

shanake_ avatar
Shana
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Awesome that these people stood up for their dogs. Pets are a part of the family, can't believe those friends/family would say to get rid of them because they're having a baby...

imbriuminarian avatar
Bunzilla
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Pets can make some of the best big siblings. My mother had two sister cats that she had raised from orphaned babies. They were like my big sisters. They were the sweetest little things, they watched over me, curled up next to me, called my mother when I was upset. Pets and kids just go together!

arthz143 avatar
Darth Vader
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The fur kids will make the best big brothers and big sisters ever! Showing unconditional love to the little one. I can never understand abandoning animals who are already part of your life. This is such a lovely story :)

hannah_honey avatar
Hannah Honey
Community Member
7 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

When you don't take the advice of all of your friends AND your family AND your doctor, then you are not fulfilling your parental responsibility and putting your human child first, as should be done.

bellaisnotcool246 avatar
Bella
Community Member
7 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In the end it's their decision, i'm sure they are perfectly capable of looking after both the dogs and the baby.

Load More Replies...
boredpanda_5 avatar
Sam Spade
Community Member
7 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

They're BOTH pregnant? How come it only shows on her?

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