How you can help rescued dogs
PET BULLETIN
‘Mews and Yips’ from the Central Aroostook Humane Society
Gail Wieder
Have you ever rescued a dog? To me, this is the best dog to have. They need a home and have so much love to give. I have rescued several dogs over the years and every one of them has been a great addition to our family. I prefer an older dog; they are usually potty trained, less active and looking for a comfy couch to lie on.
You don’t have to adopt or rescue dogs to help them. Sometimes our lives and schedules don’t allow for dog ownership or individual rescue efforts. But there are many other ways you can contribute to the well-being of “dogkind.”
Spread the word about responsible dog ownership. Friendly conversation can be an effective way of improving attitudes towards dogs and the serious problems they face.
Preach what you practice. Hearing trusted friends or relatives talk about their own experiences with dog rescue can really change ways of thinking. It might not happen overnight, but remember that you can gently plant seeds in other people’s hearts and minds.
One of the best things you can do for dogs right now is to encourage others to spay and neuter their dogs. There are so many unwanted pets in the world, and we need to educate everyone. Spaying and neutering does not change dogs’ basic temperaments. They might become less combative with other dogs, but if they were protective before, they will remain protective.
Did you know that having litters of puppies to care for can be far more expensive than spaying a female dog, and that the health risks to unaltered male and female dogs can add up to a whopping vet bill?
Volunteer and brighten a dog’s day. Volunteer work offers many benefits, and for dog lovers it has the added attraction of putting us in the company of canines. We make new friends of both the four-pawed and two-footed varieties, and learn new skills. Sign up at an animal shelter to pet and play with dogs waiting for adoption. Your attention and TLC can reduce their fear and insecurity and help them stay healthy and perky, making them more adoptable.
You can also train with a rescue group to speak in schools about spaying and neutering and dog care. Join a pet therapy program to take your dog into hospitals or nursing homes. This is some of the most gratifying volunteer work you will ever do.
Central Aroostook Humane Society welcomes anyone who would like to volunteer their time; you can socialize the dogs and cats waiting for their forever homes. Take a dog for a walk — it benefits both of you.
Stop by our shelter and volunteer. You will be happy you did. Our hours of operation are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., closed for lunch from 12-12:30 p.m. You can also check us out on Facebook and petfinders.com.
Please be responsible pet owners: spay and neuter your pets.
Gail Wieder is a member of the Board of Directors of the Central Aroostook Humane Society.
