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Salvation for Man's Best Friend |
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Written by Rebecca Foxton
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Friday, 18 July 2008 |
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You keep good care of your dog, but what of those who by some accident or circumstances end up alone? The pound may be the end destination for an unfortunate number, as even healthy dogs will be put down if they can't be rehomed elsewhere.
by RebeccaFoxton
You keep good care of your dog, but what of those who by some accident or circumstances end up alone? The pound may be the end destination for an unfortunate number, as even healthy dogs will be put down if they can't be rehomed elsewhere.
An alternative is an animal shelter, a much happier option as they care for abandoned dogs and attempt to find new owners, and they have been instrumental in encouraging spaying and neutering. This alone has resulted in a reduction of stray dogs reproducing unwanted puppies.
Still, some animals will end up in shelters, often through no fault of their own. Their owner may have died, or become unable to look after them, or worse, been unwilling to look after them.
On the other hand there are a few dogs who got a bit too rough, possibly due to lack of training or to circumstances, for example the arrival of children.
If you want a new dog, look first at a shelter. They have mixed and pure breeds desperately waiting for a new owner.
Your decision to adopt from a shelter is noble but remember a few key points. It is rare for the shelter to have in depth knowledge of the health of the pet, so any existing conditions or potential problems may surface without warning.
Likewise the shelter can rarely vouch for the animal's temperament, so caution should be exercised, especially if you are choosing a dog to be around your kids. In addition be prepared to have to do a little dog obedience with your new pet to iron out any bad habits his former owner allowed him to have.
You will have to be patient as the dog settles into your home, and be prepared for the odd accident, as it can be very stressful for an animal to change locations to unfamiliar circumstances.
In the United States the Humane Society works for animal protection. A national NPO, it has its hub in DC. You will be able to find a regional branch near you wherever you live in the USA. It receives no government funding.
The work of the Humane society includes looking after the rights of both wildlife and domestic animals. It carries out its wok through legislation, litigation, investigation, education, advocacy and field work.
The branches provide sanctuary for unwanted animals, which are available for adoption for suitably vetted candidates.
If you want to help the Humane Society you can do so in several ways. You can adopt an animal. You can give a donation. You can volunteer your time.
These are all valuable contributions. The Humane Society and shelters are a ray of hope for abandoned and injured animals. Please don't remain complacent about the fate of unwanted animals; the truth can be very sad.
About the Author:
Author Rebecca Foxton can help you give your pet brilliant health with Fortiflora. For an excellent source of health tips for pet owners, visit her dog arthritis articles on Dog Buffs. |
