For all of us at Frontier K9, every day is a celebration of the dog. However, thanks to Lisa Wiehebrink of Tails that Teach, every May 20 is National Rescue Dog Day, and it’s a day where I love to celebrate my clients and their loveable pups.
You know that saying of, “Who rescued whom?” There’s a reason why pup-parents of rescue dogs like to say that. There’s something special about the bond between a rescued dog and their new owner/parent. I wish I could explain it, but it’s like there’s mutual appreciation for giving a new leash on life.
Rescue dogs each have a unique story: their previous owner passed away, their previous family moved away, allergies prevented a relationship from growing, finances meant difficulty to provide… Whatever the reason, rescue dogs only know their worlds have been turned upside down. Some may have behavior issues. Others may have physical health issues. It’s important that we, as their humans, take the time to discover those issues and the why.
This is why I love working with humane societies, rescues and veterinary clinics in Central Indiana. I’m proud to work with Two Bitches Rescue and Tri-County/Town & Country Veterinary Clinic as a training consultant. I love working with the volunteers at Humane Society of Clinton County to learn how to best handle each separate situation.
I take in rescues for retraining and rehab, in hopes of providing them a better route to their new lives.
And, then sometimes I have foster failures. Meet Goose, a Coonhound-mix puppy that I took in after he was relinquished by his previous owner due to some sort of chemical burns on his belly and paws. Her story was that he was “damaged.” Was he injured? Yes. Damaged? No. His spirit is every bit alive. After just one week of rehab with me, including veterinary trips and salves, he has completely healed. And, he has found a new home…ours. That’s right, my husband has a soft spot for a hound dog, and is already planning to train Goose to track deer and use his scent skills, along with our Bloodhound Irish.
That’s Goose’s story, and his new leash on life…the newest member of Frontier K9. I can’t wait to share his story with you as he continues to discover his path with his family.
So, how can you help rescue dogs? You don’t have to necessarily give them a home every time, I understand there are limitations. But, here are a few things you can do to help celebrate National Rescue Dog Day everyday, thanks to NationalRescueDogDay.com:
- ADOPT: If there is room in your life for a dog, consider adopting and giving one a forever home.
- FOSTER: Many dogs abandoned to shelters benefit from socialization, or would just thrive better away from the shelter environment. Others may be in need of some medical care or rehabilitation in a home setting before an adoption can take place.
- HELP A SHELTER: Shelters always need support. In addition to financial donations, shelters have a list of much needed items such as blankets, toys, treats, and leashes. You can also host a bake sale, car wash, or other event to raise funds for the shelter.
- VOLUNTEER: Help out at your local shelter. Taking dogs for walks, grooming, and giving them plenty of affection improves their socialization.
- SPAY/NEUTER: Be responsible for your pets. Overpopulation is the number one reason shelters exist.
- EDUCATE: Teach young children the importance of kindness, unconditional love, and responsible care of all animals.
Frontier K9 Training 