BLOG THE CHANGE FOR ANIMALS

Be the Change for Animals is hosting it's BLOG THE CHANGE FOR ANIMALS today.  A day to sponsor your cause or passion for animals. 

24 Paws of Love believe in EDUCATION FOR FUREVER HOMES, whether you get a puppy, rescue or shelter dog or a senior dog, we would like to see more owners keep their pets for their lifetime.

There's nothing like getting that cute, fuzzy puppy to find him biting and chewing on you, your kids or your new shoes.  What do you do?  

Or you've found the perfect shelter or rescue dog wagging his tail at you with that sparkle in his eye, only to find he is aggressive with your cat and tears your house to pieces when left alone.  Should you take him back?

The gentle older dog, so quiet and gentle suddenly barks guarding the door when your friends stop by.  How do you make him stop?

EDUCATION is key.  Learning about your dog's breed and understanding the role it plays in your dog's behavior will help.  

Talk to your vet, make sure there isn't any medical reason for the behaviors.

Talk to trainers, dog behaviorist, other dog owners to find what works for you and your dog.

Keep learning.  Keep trying.  Your dog is counting on you not to give up on them and aren't they worth it?  

Having a dog has many challenges and struggles.  There are always behavior issues when you own a dog.  Training doesn't stop after six months.  They are a commitment and a responsibility.  Dogs only want to please you and be part of your life, show them you care by taking the time to get to know them.  They will be your best friend for life with a little extra time and understanding.  

Please think carefully about before getting any pet and be honest with what you about the attention you are willing to give.  Every pet deserve a FUREVER HOME.   Do you have one? 

Want to learn more about BLOG THE CHANGE FOR ANIMALS?  Click on the above badge for a link to BE THE CHANGE FOR ANIMALS.   

We are responsible

"Blog the Change" blog hop was our first blog hop and it was an exciting experience.  Real people for real causes.  Out of all the causes, there was one that haunted me the most after I read it.  It is:  Dogs:  A letter from a Shelter Manger on No Dog About It blog.  It is a graphic description of when you drop your dog off at the shelter and expect it will find a good home.  This was one shelter and there a thousand more just like it. 

Brut at 6 weeks

Any one of my dogs could have ended up in a shelter before we got them.  With Brut's aggressive tendencies, the possibilities of him ending up beaten and throw away would have been likely.  Without the right care, concern and patience he probably wouldn't have made it or ended up in dog fighting.  It is never easy caring for a dog with these special circumstances, believe me I've wanted to throw in the towel many a times, but he was my responsibility and I could never come close to actually doing it.  I could never pawn him off to someone else, especially knowing exactly how he was.  I couldn't do that to him or someone else.  I believe it wouldn't be fair to anyone, especially Brut.  We were his family, he didn't know anything else.  Getting rid of him was never an option and that meant digging in deeper to get to the heart of his problems.  I could not fathom losing him no matter what the circumstances.  Brut has blossomed into a wonderful, gentle, caring dog, with a sly, conniving side and I wouldn't have him any other way.  

Blaze looking up, Chance sleeping on Zappa with blue collar at 7 weeks

When we had our litter of puppies, it was by choice and we both knew we were responsible for all 10 puppies, not just from birth to their new homes, but for their lives.  If for any reason the owners were not able to care for them, we would take them back.  No questions asked.  We were never so grateful as when we got the call from Blaze's and Chance's owners to return them and they didn't end up in a shelter.  Both of them could have easily ended up there. The abuse they were suffering made them completely out of control.  It has been challenging to say the least, both of them having such high anxiety levels and are learning to trust again, but it has been worth it.  Nobody could believe that after already have 4 dogs that we would take two more in.  We were responsible for them and it was our responsibility to take care of them.  We were the reason they came into this world and we were accountable to them.  No questions asked.

When ever we have moved, it meant finding a place not just the dogs, but the cats and the duck.  The thought of actually getting rid of any would be like cutting off one of our arms.  They are part of lives.  There are too many animals suffering.  I wish I could bring them all home.  So I would ask anyone to read this letter and think twice before dropping your animal off.  I believe there is always a way if you keep searching for it.   Hugs to all of you that may be in difficult circumstances and wavering about what to do.  I hope you will think twice and realize that you are all your pet has and your the last one he wants to lose.  Please don't give up.