Help Stop the "Return" of Blameless Pets to Shelters

Sadly, a lot of new or expectant parents today are giving their first “babies” -- their pets -- back to animal shelters. And if you think those pets will all find new, loving homes, think again. An estimated three to five million shelter animals are euthanized every year!

Worst of all, in some cases, the pet has done nothing wrong. In others, the pet’s accidental “wrongdoing” could have been prevented. The truth is most families with new babies can live safely and happily with their pets.

You can help the American Humane Society stop this tragic trend by donating to the Human-Animal Bond Division! This division’s many critical programs include a vital initiative to educate parents on maintaining households that are safe for babies and pets alike! Help address one of the root causes of unnecessary pet “returns,” as well as other important human-animal bond issues! Donate at http://www.americanhumane.org/donate/

**If you or someone you know is considering relinquishing a pet to a shelter, seek training from a professional dog trainer in your area. Find a reputable professional through the International Association of Canine Professionals at http://www.canineprofessionals.com/

Fear Aggression

How can you tell if it is fear based aggression?

With nervous and fear aggressive dogs, you will find that they will react similarly to any dog, regardless of whether it is male or female. The behavior is often worse if the dog is on the lead or is cornered, especially if close to the owner, who backs up the behavior, (though unwittingly) by becoming nervous and agitated as another dog approaches.

This manifests itself in a tightening up on the lead and shoulders because of the expectation of conflict. Nervous owners experience a rush of adrenaline which the dog instantly detects and causes it to look for what is causing the concern. It sees the dog approaching and reacts accordingly. This type of dog is also normally a barker, it will lunge and bark at the approaching dog but generally will not snap, unless all its options have run out (i.e. flight or freeze) and after all it’s threatening behavior the other dog still gets too close.

This problem can often be diagnosed if someone who is confident around dogs (that the dog does not know well) takes it out on the lead. It will not get the same fearful vibes from the owner, therefore the reaction to another dogs approaching will be less intense. It is a good way of finding out if your dog suffers fear aggression as the behavior will either not be exhibited or will be less pronounced. The owner can then use a desensitization program for both the dog and themselves.

Ten Commandments for a Responsible Pet Owner as dictated by the pet.

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful. Learn of ways to help me overcome any anxiety that I may experience when you are away.
2. Let me know what you expect of me by providing me clear rules and boundaries.
3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.
4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainments. But I have only you.
5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.
6. Be aware that however you treat me, inconsistency is confusing and only increases my level of anxiety.
7. Don't hit me or strike me, as I have teeth that could easily crush the bones in your hand, and yet I choose not to bite you.
8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I have been in the sun too long or my heart might be getting old or weak.
9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too will grow old.
10. On the difficult journey, on the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there. Because I love you so.

Enjoy and take good care of your pets. Life would be a much duller, less joyful thing without them.