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Dr. Dutton's article on The Bond
Why are there so many “failed commitments” in this country? Why are shelters filled to capacity and rescue groups so necessary and so busy? It’s simple. We humans lack responsibility. When the going gets tough, the pet gests surrendered with a variety of excuses.
Dogs have an incredibly long history with us. It is important to think about this when considering adoption or purchase of new dog. Some ten to fifteen thousand years ago primitive, pariah (scavenger) dogs choose to accompany wandering groups of humans as they migrated from southwest Asia across continents. Over time, ancient societies bred dogs for utilitarian purposes; hunting, herding, protection, etc. Dogs started out with jobs, they understood their “role in the pack”, and the ones that were really good at their jobs were selectively bred. Today, most dogs are bred for looks rather than working standards. However, their DNA still wants a job!
In my practice, when I am asked “What do you think of this breed?” or “What breeds do you recommend?” I have learned to urge clients to do some research. Not only is it interesting to see where they are “coming from”, it is also important to understand (I am always loaning out my dog encyclopedias). Although you will find a range of physical abilities and temperaments within a specific breed, you must keep in mind the genetic predisposition ingrained in hundreds if not thousands of years of selective breeding. Also, certain breeds that are now labeled “companions” had much different jobs originally. For instance, Bulldogs, both English and French, were originally used for Bull-baiting! Bulldogs can be stubborn and headstrong, qualities that might come in handy when facing a bull. The Japanese Akita and the Chinese Shar Pei were originally used for dog-fighting and large game hunting, but are now considered “companions”. However, those “early years” have left them with a reputation of being more challenging to train and not always good with other dogs.
It is important to be prepared from the beginning. Will the type of dog you want fit your lifestyle? Can you provide the lifestyle they require and deserve? If they can’t herd sheep, you need to make sure they can participate in a comparable activity that will keep they mentally and physically challenged.
Ask some questions:
- If children are in the picture (yours or visiting, neighborhood, etc.), are they good with children in general?
- Are they suitable for urban living? Do you have the time to get them out and exercise if you don’t have the space at home?
- What type of climate are they suited for? Are you prepared to keep them indoors if necessary (due to their physical characteristics)?
- Are you able to provide their grooming needs?
- Are they easy to train or slightly more challenging? Remember, this is not for your sake, but theirs too. DOGS WANT TO MAKE US HAPPY; it’s up to us to show them how!
- Do they get along with other dogs or are they potentially troublesome?
- Are they good watchdogs? This can be a very beneficial quality in some situations, but in others excessive barking can create problems.
Remember, all these characteristics may have been “hard-wired” in your companion over hundreds (or thousands) of years. It may take time, effort, patience and concessions on your part to incorporate their needs into your lifestyle. Starting off with a good match helps!
Of course, often our companions find us; we do not necessarily choose them. In a chance meeting (rescue, shelter, someone else found a pet they can’t keep), we find ourselves struck by love at first sight. Not having the opportunity to research your decision ahead of time does not preclude later follow up. Please bring the most information and understanding to the relationship you possibly can to make it a happy, long term, unforgettable experience.
In gratitude and appreciation for “The Bond” – Beth Dutton, DVM
Dr. Beth Dutton can be reached at Blue Cross Veterinary Clinic, 4111 N. 36th Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85018, 602-955-5980.
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