Understanding the needs of rescue dogs

There are thousands of, unfortunate, dogs that need rehoming throughout the U.K.  Many organisations put up dogs for rescue; many are destined to remain in rescue centres for long periods of time.

This is a question that troubles me. I wonder, WHY is this the case?  Rescue dogs are of particular interest to me.  I believe, they are often misunderstood, often resulting in difficulty in finding these dogs new homes. People are, simple, put of.

Visit any number of dog rehoming sites and you will see comments such as ‘not good with cats’ or ‘doesn’t get along with other dogs’ or ‘ must be only animal in home.’  Now, of course, there might be situatons where this type of comment is true.  However, many times the opposite is the case.

I have, personally, rehomed ‘dififcult’ dogs that were at ‘the last chance saloon.’ Often these dogs had, apparently, serious issues. However, with care, understanding and advice – these ‘difficult dogs’ lived long and happy lives and, overcame most of their issues.

Working with these ‘difficult dogs’ is what prompted me to train as a canine behaviourist. I had always thought I knew a lot about dogs. Well, I was wrong. Through properly studying canine behaviour I came to realise that my lack of knowledge had made it harder than is should have been to help the dogs in my charge.

Dogs that find themselves needing new homes, usually through no fault of their own, can’t speak up for themselves and let us ‘humans’ know what troubles them.  It is, therefore, encumbent on us to try to understand each and every rescued dog that needs our help.

I would urge, those, kind people, who wish to help a dog, NOT to be put of by descriptions on websites. Visit these dogs, take advice and ask questions. If you can, ask the advice of a canine behaviourist who, may be able to help you and your, potential, new canine addition to your family. Remember, introducing a new dog to your home needs careful thought and, needs to be done in the right way. It can be a challenge, but, believe me, it is one worth your time.