(Main picture is Carlos, a 2 year old Rotti Mix still waiting a year later at the shelter for a home. For more information about him please CLICK HERE).
Wouldn’t it be nice if all dogs were born with an even temperament? Imagine, every one of them utterly calm and cooperative. It’s okay, I give you permission to laugh at the impossibility of such an idea.
I can’t be the only person that has struggled through the journey of accepting the intrinsic goofiness and imperfections of my dog’s identity.
I find comfort in meeting folks who understand my situation and even attempt to help by socializing with my stubborn dog. It is so appreciated. When you go to dog-friendly areas such as an off-leash park, you are bound to mingle with plenty of enthusiastic dog lovers, many who are familiar in dealing with all sorts of behavioural traits. On a recent trip to our local park, we hit the jackpot in terms of socializing. A bountiful group of likeminded and pleasant people flocked to the park on a beautiful afternoon. There were no scuffles, only peaceful playtime and friendly conversations.
(Below, Lily, a happy little Mountain Cur Mix . If you are interested in her please CLICK HERE for more information).
One person in particular took an interest in getting to know my dog, which, to be honest, does not come easily. She has initial trouble trusting strangers and is overly protective of her humans. I understand how her behaviour is off-putting to the majority of people who want to approach her, and I take note of those who are willing to commit to earning her trust with gentleness and patience. This woman at the park had the ability to read my dog’s body language and respond appropriately. Slowly but surely it is open-minded people like her who are helping my dog warm up to the fact that other human beings are not a threat.
My pup is a beautiful little beast, I only wish she knew to let her guard down. It’s difficult to teach that. It pains me to imagine the gargantuan amount of pets and belly rubs she would receive from everyone if she were friendlier. When she does finally become comfortable around new friends, my heart feels like it’s going to burst out of my chest! She is so full of love. (Below, Max, a Border Collie Beagle Mix who needs to find a new home. Please CLICK HERE for more information on him).
Her good qualities far outweigh the negative behavioural hurtles we’ve been tackling. I can’t help but feel deep sorrow for the animals waiting to be adopted with a similar temperament to mine. They deserve nurturing just as much.
We want beloved Carlos (pictured below again) to find his perfect match. Read about him at nfhs.ca.
When you visit a shelter and inquire about the background for those up for adoption, you will find that a handful of them have specific requirements regarding their potential future homes. Sometimes such needs are not easy to meet, thus making it more difficult for those animals to find new families. The more people that open their lives up to adoption means there are more chances for each animal to find an appropriate home.
This week’s column written by By Alexandra Hari
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