Saturday, November 23, 2013

Service Dogs

We were fortunate to have a group of dedicated trainers begin a service dog training program called Eagles' Wings Service Dogs.  It was the brain child of Cindy Sortman who had multiple sclerosis.  Along with several other trainers, they would choose a shelter dog, train it, and seek an individual for placement.  These dedicated trainers spent countless hours of their time in training, both for the dog and the individual the dog would serve.  I have witnessed first hand the transformation of the disabled when they get their service dog.

Cindy passed away several years ago but her legacy lives on in the dogs that are providing a vital service to their new owners.

Unfortunately, there is a disturbing trend that threatens the professional training process and the reputation of service dogs.  Individuals can apply on-line, pay a fee, and have their dogs registered as service dogs.  This is a thinly veiled attempt by pet owners to take their dogs with them wherever they go.  The claim is that the dog is for their "depression" or "emotional support". 

It is unfortunate that some people will stoop to these levels and make service dogs look bad.  Just recently, a blind man was removed from an airline because he would not fit his German Shepherd under the seat!

Shame on those people who have taken advantage of a loophole in order to have their dogs with them at all times when professionally trained service dogs are looked down upon.

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Wedding Favors

 
 
 
From time to time, a wedding couple will ask for donations to our SPCA in lieu of gifts, or, in lieu of party favors the couple will make a donation.  The picture above is from a couple who made a $1,000 donation rather than buy favors.  At each table they had a laminated picture of their pets.  (Seen in lower right hand corner of picture) 

I am always touched by donor's creativity and generosity.  What a lovely idea.  I was also happy that this couple shared a picture of her table setting with the picture of her pets.


Monday, November 4, 2013

A Reasonable Verdict

Do you remember the emaciated dog from the post of 9/15/2013?  This is her: Lady.  She successfully nursed 9 puppies (with supplemental feedings from the SPCA staff).  While under our care, AND while nursing puppies, she gained 13 pounds!  She is a delight to be around as her tail is in constant motion.

Testimony showed that both mother and puppies were malnourished.  The district magistrate's decision was guilty, the puppies were forfeited to us, and Lady was to be returned to the owner after being spayed.

Of course, I would prefer that Lady did not have to go back to the owner but at least she will not suffer deprivation with another litter of pups.  I just hope that the owner takes care of her. 

Saturday, November 2, 2013

Challenge of a Deaf Dog

This is Classie who arrived at out shelter on December 3, 2012.  She is a sweet dog but has a couple of challenges that cause her to be overlooked.  I would have to say that her first challenge is discrimination.  She looks like a pit bull and people have a stereotypical opinion that all pit bulls are vicious.  This is definitely not the case with this sweet girl.

The second challenge is that she is deaf.  When people walk through the kennel, she is often curled up in a snug circle, oblivious to the din of  barking dogs, and visitors just pass her by.

So what challenges do we have with a deaf dog who also happens to be a breed avoided by our adopters?  First and foremost, if visitors would get her out and spend time with her, they would find her to be friendly and energetic.  She loves long walks and also enjoys leaning against you as she is petted.  Since she does not respond to voice commands, she has learned hand signals.  (Did I mention that she is also very smart?) 

There are training collars available that will vibrate when you want to get the dog's attention.  This should be accomplished with a knowledgeable trainer to build trust and teach the dog consistent expectations.

Also, since she is deaf, it is possible for her to startle easily.  For that reason, we are not recommending homes with small children.

Are you looking for a dog that loves to walk, is affectionate, but has a disability?  If so, check out Classie.  She needs you .