Improving the Life of a Neighbor’s Dog
Very few people intentionally mistreat their animals. However having a pet is a big responsibility and for some people can be overwhelming. Sometimes, with a little bit of guidance and information, a pet's situation in a home can be improved. Here are some guidelines that I have found useful to possibly improve the situation in the home.
Observe the situation. Check for a fresh supply of water and shelter. Is the dog thin? Does the dog cower when approached? Is the dog kept on a chain 24/7? If hot weather, is there ample, accessible shade? Document findings. Take photos if possible without trespassing.
Offer the owner of the mistreated animal help. Always tell the person upon meeting them that you realize dogs are a big responsibility and their care can be overwhelming. You must play the really sweet, gooey role to get them on your side and accept help versus being resentful. Knock on the door and greet with a big smile. If the dog is chained out, offer to install a trolley line system between 2 trees or between the house and a tree. These can be purchased at Walmart or Petsmart. This is not as good as talking the owner into bringing the dog inside but a better alternative than chaining out. Here is a great website with information on getting dogs off chains and in the house with the family. www.dogsdeservebetter.org
Be a sympathetic ear. As much as anything else, help the people feel good about having a dog and trying to improve its situation. Again, very few people purposely mistreat their dogs - most people just don't know better. If you can help guide them in the right direction, and listen and understand the challenges they face in having the dog in their home, then you have a chance to help improve the dog's situation. If they just don't seem to care and you feel the animals life is in danger, contact your local authorities. Local authorities may or may not be able to help due to very weak laws in Missouri regarding the protection animals. Get involved in changing these laws by joining Missouri Alliance for Animal Legislation at www.maal.org (314) 361-3944.
Observe the situation. Check for a fresh supply of water and shelter. Is the dog thin? Does the dog cower when approached? Is the dog kept on a chain 24/7? If hot weather, is there ample, accessible shade? Document findings. Take photos if possible without trespassing.
Offer the owner of the mistreated animal help. Always tell the person upon meeting them that you realize dogs are a big responsibility and their care can be overwhelming. You must play the really sweet, gooey role to get them on your side and accept help versus being resentful. Knock on the door and greet with a big smile. If the dog is chained out, offer to install a trolley line system between 2 trees or between the house and a tree. These can be purchased at Walmart or Petsmart. This is not as good as talking the owner into bringing the dog inside but a better alternative than chaining out. Here is a great website with information on getting dogs off chains and in the house with the family. www.dogsdeservebetter.org
Be a sympathetic ear. As much as anything else, help the people feel good about having a dog and trying to improve its situation. Again, very few people purposely mistreat their dogs - most people just don't know better. If you can help guide them in the right direction, and listen and understand the challenges they face in having the dog in their home, then you have a chance to help improve the dog's situation. If they just don't seem to care and you feel the animals life is in danger, contact your local authorities. Local authorities may or may not be able to help due to very weak laws in Missouri regarding the protection animals. Get involved in changing these laws by joining Missouri Alliance for Animal Legislation at www.maal.org (314) 361-3944.
