For many pet owners, their furry companions are more than just animals—they’re family. So, when faced with a choice between a beloved pet and a romantic partner, which one should come first? A woman recently shared her heartbreaking story on Reddit, detailing how her boyfriend’s neglect led to the disappearance and injury of her 12-year-old dog, Milo.

Her experience sparked heated debate online: Was she wrong for choosing her dog over her relationship, or was her ex-boyfriend the real problem?

The woman, 24, explained that she had raised Milo since she was a puppy. For over a decade, Milo had been her constant companion, offering unconditional love and comfort even on her worst days.

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However, her boyfriend of four years never seemed to share the same affection for the dog. Though he claimed to love dogs, his actions told a different story—one that would ultimately lead to a devastating betrayal.

Even though her boyfriend initially said he loved dogs, he showed little interest in Milo over the years.

• When she first introduced him to Milo, he barely acknowledged the dog.
• While he was affectionate toward other dogs in public, he seemed indifferent to Milo at home.
• When Milo got sick with a serious tooth infection, he was irritated every time she brought up her pet’s condition.

Looking back, the woman admitted that she ignored the red flags. She wanted to believe her boyfriend cared, even though his behavior suggested otherwise.

Things took a devastating turn when the woman planned a short vacation to visit her grandparents. Initially, she had arranged for her best friend to care for Milo, but her boyfriend insisted on taking responsibility instead.

He convinced her that he wanted to bond with Milo and that she should have trusted him in the first place. Reluctantly, she agreed.

Then, the unthinkable happened.

While on vacation, she spoke to her boyfriend on the phone and learned he had left Milo outside, unattended for hours. This was a massive red flag—she lived in an apartment with no backyard, meaning Milo was left vulnerable in an unfamiliar place.

By the time she rushed home, Milo was missing.

Heartbroken and furious, the woman immediately launched a search. She printed posters, contacted local shelters, and posted in community groups.

Her ex-boyfriend, on the other hand, showed little remorse. His responses were cold, and he refused to take responsibility for what had happened.

Reddit users overwhelmingly supported her decision to break up with her boyfriend. Many suspected that his actions were intentional—perhaps he was jealous of the attention Milo received and wanted the dog out of the picture.

Some of the most upvoted comments included:

• “Your ex insisted on watching Milo just so he could ‘lose’ her. He saw an opportunity and took it.”
• “He neglected her on purpose. That wasn’t a mistake—it was cruelty.”
• “Your ex sounds like a narcissist who wanted to control you. Losing a pet is heartbreaking, but I’m glad you’re pressing charges.”

The internet agreed: This was more than simple neglect. His behavior was a calculated act of emotional manipulation.

Days after her desperate search began, the woman finally received a call—Milo had been found. A kind stranger had spotted her on the side of the road, injured and in pain.

Rushing to the scene, the woman broke down in tears. Milo had survived but suffered two broken ribs and severe dehydration. She was immediately taken to the vet for treatment.

With undeniable evidence of neglect and possible abuse, the woman decided to press charges against her ex-boyfriend. She believed he was fully responsible for Milo’s disappearance and injury, and she wasn’t going to let him get away with it.

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In a shocking twist, when her ex came to collect his belongings, he tried to use Milo as leverage. He claimed he would tell her the truth about what happened—but only if she agreed to get back together with him.

That was the final straw. She refused and kicked him out, making it clear that she would never forgive him for what he did.

Was she wrong to choose her dog over her boyfriend? Absolutely not.

• Milo had been by her side for 12 years, offering unconditional love and loyalty.
• Her boyfriend showed zero empathy, neglected her dog, and possibly caused harm intentionally.
• A true partner would respect and care for the things and beings that are important to their loved one.

This story serves as a powerful reminder: The right person will respect what you love. If they don’t, they aren’t the one.

In the end, this woman made the best decision. She walked away from a toxic relationship and saved her beloved pet’s life.

Milo is now on the road to recovery, and she’s pressing charges to hold her ex accountable. This ordeal taught her a valuable lesson: Anyone who disrespects or mistreats something you love isn’t worth your time.

What would you do in her situation? Would you have chosen your pet over your partner? Let us know in the comments.