Reasons why many dogs are being abandoned + left to fend for themselves are – cost of living, change in owner’s circumstances, high vet costs, the lack of rescue space in local kennels where often they would have been previously signed over to. Our priority is the health + welfare of these defenceless, voiceless and often terrified dogs. Indeed many would not cope in kennels, not understanding why they have been left alone. We take them into our homes and give them time
+ space for recuperation
Dogs that are found straying after being abandoned are always in a terrible state both physically and psychologically, with poor skin conditions, matted fur, eye and teeth problems plus other injuries to their poor little bodies. The female dogs often have mammary gland sores and issues undoubtedly from over breeding. As well as being neglected they show signs of other mistreatment as they are very wary of human touch or eye contact. Additionally they will not have a microchip to be able to trace the previous owner to report to the RSPCA as a cruelty/welfare concern.
As these dogs would not be able to cope in local kennels, team members are taking them into their own homes to give them their own safe quiet space in a safe environment to help with their recuperation.
We give these dogs as much time as they need to learn to trust again, providing a warm bed and nutritious food/treats and cleaning up their many accidents without any fuss or recrimination. We let them decide, in their own time, when and how often they want to explore a little within the home, to approach us to sniff and investigate us, offering treats to take from nearby and eventually from our hands.
It can be a very long process, all the time being calm, gentle and quiet around the dog to reach the wonderful point where the dog comes to us for stroking and eventually cuddles.
Other dogs within the home will be introduced and that is usually the first sign of positive interaction. The dogs will sniff each other initially to get to know each other and will show signs of wanting to play and be with them. The dogs will also watch and learn how the other dogs in the home interact with and are treated by the humans.
Using our vast network of other rescues, veterinary services and our supporters, we ensure a new forever 5* home is found for them when fully prepared and recuperated.