Call-out for Lucy <3
This web post is about people with big hearts and little experience getting a dog. A decision made during pandemic isolation, that turned to be a post-pandemic disaster. And the kicker, dogs that are purpose-bred for working, make a pet but under strict conditions idiosyncratic to the breed. Some just can’t deny their nature.
This is where my friend landed, and she is not alone. During the pandemic many purchased/adopted a sweet puppy, but of a breed with traits that are quite overwhelming in a full-grown dog. Herding, guarding, hunting and retrieving instincts. Traits that don’t lend themselves to urban or sub-urban family living but could to a farm, homestead or rural property.
But is it fair to put another challenge in the hands of a farmer or the farm community? My instinct is to look to the farm community first for solutions. A community that is organized with standards of care for animals. Involving standards for all levels of care including shelter, housing, nutrition, water and other health and welfare essentials at all stages of life.
This level of organization for care just isn’t available when it comes to dogs and cats. The same level of oversight is not in place. Once again, we look to those who work and live with animals 24/7 for guidance.
Please share organizations, information and people involved in rehoming working dogs that have gone astray with Editor@SmallFarmCanada.ca
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