@westcoastflea1
You might not like the responses, but none of us are your enemy. Why are you fighting with us? You came her to vent about things that were happening to you. Some of the things that you have said don't make sense, so we are asking questions. Or offering advice. We can't know everything that has happened. We don't know how this will all turn out. But none of us deserve the backlash.
You're angry. I get it. I don't care. If I have to be the big sister, or step-mom, or whoever it is you hate soooo much, then fine. I'm in your face. Pull it together! What you are doing does not help Declan. So knock it off!
Face what is happening. Because if you actually refuse to release that dog, or try to switch it for another dog, and a Sherriff/Police Officer is with Animal Control when it happens, you could end up in handcuffs.
Consider what that means. You will be escorted from your home. All of the dogs in your home could be taken into Animal Controls' custody. You might have to post bail to get out of jail before your court appearance. You will have to pay fines. You might lose your job. You might not be able to make rent and have trouble maintaining your housing. Your entire life could be turned upside down. And trust me, when that happens, it can take a long time to get back to where you are now.
Why are you willing to let that happen? Is this dog worth being a convict? Homeless? Unemployable?
You can avoid all of that. Just sign BRAT's release form. IMHO, it's the only reasonable option that you have. That has been my advice and it remains my advice. Everything else you are doing is just bringing a rainstorm down on you.
And honestly, the only one who needs to know why you are acting like this. Is Declan.
Explain it to Declan. Tell him how he isn't important enough for you to adopt him. Tell him how you would rather go to jail than sign a piece of paper. Tell him how these strangers are going to put a wire hoop around his neck so they can control him enough to get him into a container -- because you would rather fight than lift him up yourself. Tell him. Tell him he isn't worth it if you don't get paid to take care of him.
Go ahead, Heather, tell him. I don't want to hear it anymore.