Raising our criteria for rescue

Thought-provoking article by Debbie Jacobs.  Are we really doing a kindness to all the dogs that we "rescue" from their awful circumstances?  This article, as well as my experience with a local shelter, has prompted me many times to think about this very question.  It is hard to find appropriate placements for many dogs, especially fearful dogs.  We don't want to leave them in the terrible situations that many of them are found in, but is re-homing them really the best alternative (thinking of the question from the point of view of the dog, and really considering the question of good welfare)?  Is the kindest thing to humanely euthanize them, if we can't find a home that really understands their needs, and is fully committed to the onerous task of working with them for their entire lives?  It's a very hard question to answer, but I think everyone who is concerned with animal welfare must consider it.

I know that this issue is very controversial and expect to hear comments.  Please remember to be respectful;  I am only raising this question out of concern for the lifelong good welfare of animals.

I think Debbie is right, though;  we must raise our criteria of what a "successful" rescue is.

Comments, thoughts, opinions?  I think a debate on the subject is healthy and important.

Dogs and fear

In this month's BARK magazine, there is a wonderful article by Karen B. London about dogs and fear:  "Cautious Canines: Understanding and Helping Fearful Dogs".  The article isn't online (at least not yet), but I'd really encourage anyone who knows a shy, timid or fearful dog to read the article.   It's a great overview of dogs and fearfulness.

Here is another great article (by the wonderful Dr. Patricia McConnell) about reducing fear in dogs.  As she points out, "A gentle hand or a tasty treat doesn’t reinforce fear, it reduces it."  

My very favourite resource on dogs and fear is Debbie Jacobs' fantastic website, www.fearfuldogs.com.   This is THE place to start if you know a dog that you would describe as shy, timid, cautious, or fearful.  This site will help anyone who has or works with a dog like this.

Finally, I'd also like to link to a fabulous Yahoo group Shy-k9s.  The group description reads, "The shy-k9s mailing list is for the discussion of shy, fearful and/or fear-aggressive dogs and positive solutions to their problems."  Another great resource and source of support for people who have fearful dogs in their lives.