Thanks Jim1949, but your answer doesnt address my question because you rescued a dog who had been abandoned and mistreated... I have been in that situation, both of my past dogs were rescues. One had been abandoned and one was neglected. BOTH adapted very quickly and became treasured household members. The dog I am considering has been in a loving home for 5 yrs. With 4 family members and a pet kitty it loves. I am concerned at that age it will not be able to form a new attachment for a new owner. She even sleeps with the kitty on her back. Thats a lot for a dog to give up.