Pet lovers around the world would probably agree, as any innocent creature that has endured difficult circumstances deserves to have a quiet and beautiful life.
Sadly, thousands of kennel and kennel pets have experienced some pretty painful situations. Severely neglected or abused dogs they may have suffered any amount of abuse, as a physical limitation; lack of proper food; endless environmental stressors; even severe physical punishment.
Socialize an abused dog for adoption
Such dogs they may become suspicious, nervous, or withdrawn. Some may grunt, snap at the slightest provocation; urinate or defecate in terror; even try to escape.
Prospective adopters do not always realize what a particular pet has endured, as all they see is an adorable face and a wavering tail. This could be because that particular dog has benefited from specialized socialization training or behavioral intervention, something that is often used, to give a dog a second chance at a normal life.
The humans involved in these concentrated efforts often represent a wide range of organizations.
What they share is a strong and abiding love for dogs; combined with the desire to help educate and support future responsible pet owners. We asked two of these experts to share some first-hand observations, as their ideas give a whole new meaning to the term "rescued."
Abused dogs, an unfortunately too common problem
Pronounced neglect is a pervasive problem that can affect canine life in myriad ways, something that may be due to persistent disregard for an animal's emotions and / or chronic exposure to overwhelming stressors during early development.
Transforming the lives of abused dogs
Very anxious dogs are often paired with other dogs to help build your confidence.
Over weeks and sometimes months, they get used to the stairs. They are also helped to feel comfortable in large rooms, to overcome the fear of everyday noises, like appliances and train them to learn that smaller spaces can represent safety and security
Thinking of adopting a dog that has previously experienced abuse?
What is the best way to determine if a dog to be adopted has required a specialized socialization or a behavioral intervention to become "ready for adoption"?
First of all, you should ask. Shelters sometimes offer this information about certain dogs. One thing that makes dogs such wonderful companions is their resilience and that is with proper care and socializationThey can absolutely thrive in a loving and caring home that meets their needs.
As an adopter of one of these pets, proper grooming should include connection with a qualified trainer or ethologist. These professionals can help you learn to look at things from the dog's perspective, as many of these pets may need more time to adjust to and learn about the adopter's lifestyle at first.
It is important, however, and sometimes very hard when adopting, to understand that this type of dog they should not be pampered too much.
Humans will sometimes repeatedly indulge in unwanted behaviors; involuntarily leading the dog to perceive himself as the ruler of the henhouse. Learn positive behavioral strategies Through an ethologist you can help your new pet to understand its role from the beginning.
Socialization strategies based on positive reinforcement They can help even severely abused animals and viewed from these kinds of specialized perspectives, focused socialization can offer many homeless dogs the structure and humane guidance they need to become beloved companions for life.