Silverspoon is a 70-pound bundle of gentleness, patience, and loyalty. Described by the shelter as adaptable, she’s the kind of dog who will snuggle on the couch all day or trot by your side on a brisk run. She’s house-trained, kennel-trained, and has impeccable leash manners. She’s gentle, loving, and adored by everyone she meets.And yet, this beautiful 5-year-old dog has been returned to the shelter three times.Silverspoon’s story isn’t unique — it’s part of the darker reality of shelter adoption that we don’t often hear about. Approximately 60% of adopted shelter dogs are returned...
Are shelter dogs America’s throwaway dogs? It’s #NationalPetDay, so it’s a good time to ask this question.I did some digging. I went to 11 shelter websites in CA, NV, TX, AL, SC, and NY, and looked at their adoption fees for adult dogs/puppies. The range for all dogs was $0 to $150, with the average adoption fee of $70 for an adult dog. Now compare that $70 average fee to a “Family of Four Feast” at Red Lobster for $136.99, an annual Netflix subscription for $167+, or a monthly cell phone bill for an F-O-F...
What do Brooklyn, Kosmo, and Numi have in common?They were adopted from shelters. They were returned to the shelter by their adopters shortly after their adoption. They’re all dead.This is not a post meant to depress, but to raise awareness of a heart-wrenching reality that often goes unnoticed in the world of animal rescue: the plight of returned rescue/shelter dogs.Did you know that six out of ten dogs adopted from a shelter are returned within two months?For many people who decide to add a dog to their home, they opt to go the shelter route,...
Hello, future dog owners! Today, we’re going to talk about something really important but fun—your future dog’s personality, or what we like to call their “temperament.” Just like people, dogs, and certain dog breeds, have their own unique personalities and personality types. Some are super playful and energetic, while others might be more laid-back and calm. Knowing about these different types of personalities can help you find the perfect doggie friend for your family.Why Dogs’ Personalities MatterImagine you’re a person who loves to chill at home, watching movies or reading books. Now, what if you...
Are you thinking about a puppy for the Holidays? Are you a first-time dog owner?I’ve owned dogs for close to 35 years, multiple breeds, and raised dogs from puppies to seniors. If there’s one thing I know, it’s dogs.If you’re a first-time dog owner, here’s my take on dogs that would be good for you/your family and followed by dogs that while popular, you should avoid for your sanity.Every person/situation is different, but if you’ve NEVER owned a dog, or, it’s been longer than 15 years since you’ve had one, then this listing is developed...
You’re seriously thinking about adopting a dog. It’s that time of year for gift giving, right? Stop!Here are 5 reasons why you shouldn’t. 1. You’re not ready for a baby; you’re not ready for another child.A puppy is a 4-legged baby; a dog is a 4-legged child. If you’re not ready for a baby or another child, do NOT get a dog. 2. You’re unwilling to make a lifestyle change.You love going out with friends shopping, to sporting events, the restaurant scene, nightlife, or to places that don’t necessarily allow you to take your dog...
Are you thinking of adding a second dog to your family? Here are some points to consider before you detonate that adopt button.1) Your first dog’s temperament. This is THE key. Not age. Not gender. Not breed. The photo below is 12 yr old Shepherd, Czarina, with 2 yr old Allegra.Some dogs are best suited to being an only dog, while other dogs, with careful introduction, may be accepting and will get on well with the second dog. Nirvana is when both dogs become BFFs. A meet-and-greet between your dog and the potential newbie is...
You’ve decided you want to get a dog and you’re on your way to the shelter. STOP!Before you walk through the shelter door:— Do you know what size, temperament, and type of dog is right for your lifestyle and family? Or, were you just thinking about walking up and down the shelter aisles and see which dog appeals to you? (Note: six out of ten dogs are returned within two months of adoption. Please don’t be a statistic.)— What are your expectations for your new pup? Some dogs acclimate quickly, while others depending on their...
If you’re on the fence about getting a dog, here are 10 reasons for your to consider getting off that fence. But remember, be 100% sure that you’re ready for a dog before you adopt. I’ll start. No particular order.#1) A reason to get up in the morning.When I was a little girl, my mom told me, “I don’t have time to get sick or hurt. I have to take care of and love you.” That’s why I’m a pup mommy.#2) You learn what unconditional love is.No judgment on how you look. Forgiveness no matter...
Did you know that 70% of dog owners do not do any research on dogs before they adopt one? Did you also know that nearly two-thirds of pets adopted were returned within the first two months. Choosing a puppy is a balancing act between your head, your heart, and your instincts. Let me tell you the short story of Nabucco.Nabucco at 9 months old; 1st day at his forever homeThis is my purebred German Shepherd, Nabucco, whom I adopted in March, 2020, on Friday the 13th. A contractor who was remodeling my backyard deck held...
You’ve watched a bazillion YT videos about happy dog-owning people. You find yourself being urged by your dog-owning friends to take the plunge and get a dog. But before you do, answer Yes/No to these eight questions. If you have more yes’s, you’re ready. If you have more no’s, DON’T Adopt!Question #1: Are you ready for a baby? Are you ready for a child?A puppy is a 4-legged baby; a dog, a 4-legged child. If you are not ready mentally, emotionally, physically for a baby or a child, then please do NOT adopt a dog.Ready?...
Not everyone who dearly wants a dog is a child or “young” adult. Our parents/grandparents also crave the companionship and love of a dog.If you’re a senior, or know someone who is, here’s my list of considerations seniors should think about before looking for the right dog to adopt.Vision/mobility Disability (if any) Strength/Fitness Home Income Plan for the inevitableLet’s take them one at a time.Vision/MobilityThe last thing seniors need is to trip, or lose their balance and fall, because they can’t clearly see the dog. Toy/small dogs are usually the 1st choice for seniors, but...
Is there ever a time when you, in all good conscience and sleepless nights, know that giving up your dog is the best thing you can do for your dog and yourself?The short answer is yes. I did. Her name was Lexus. She went to a better home. But my decision still haunts me to this day.This is Lexus’ story.Beautiful LexusLexus was a female Doberman Pinscher. I adopted her as a puppy shortly after my 93-year-old mother, who had been living with me, passed away. I already had two Boston Terriers, but always loved Dobes...
There are hundreds of social media videos and articles about the German Shepherd Dog (GSD), what great dogs they are, how they’re good with children, how protective they are, their work in the military and police forces. But how many of these videos and articles address the characteristics and traits that are found in successful German Shepherd owners?German Shepherds are the 4th most surrendered dog to shelters across the country. And why do you think that is? My point of view — people getting in over their heads and not realizing how much work a...
This is the second of a two-part series about adopting a shelter dog. In Part 1, I took you through what to expect when you arrive at the shelter. In Part 2, I take you through what to expect when you bring your shelter dog home. Whether you’re an experienced dog owner who has decided to get another dog to replace a long-departed best friend, add a second dog to your home, or are a new dog owner who needs some coaching, here are some tips I hope you find helpful.On the Way HomeIf you’ve...
