Shelter Dogs New Haven CT

Some folks prefer purebreds, others delight in mixed breeds, but dogs of all shapes, and sizes, breeds and mixes can be adopted from animal shelters. And, with a little help from their friends, including some positive training and maybe a bit of problem-solving, most shelter-adopted dogs can become wonderfully loyal, loving companions. 

Shelter Dog — Assume Damage?
Does adopting a dog from a shelter automatically mean you'll be dealing with major behavioral issues? No, not necessarily. In fact, many dogs land in shelters for reasons quite unrelated to their behavior. Sue Sternberg, president of Rondout Valley Animals for Adoption, a privately run shelter in rural Accord, N.Y., reports that her shelter receives more dogs because of overpopulation and owners ignorance and financial problems than behavioral problems. Sternberg says of the dogs at her rural shelter, "Most of these dogs and pups have no behavioral or temperament issues whatsoever." She notes that wonderful dogs can be found at shelters, particularly shelters with temperament evaluation and training programs.

In urban areas, in contrast, owner-related causes for relinquishment — divorce, allergies, moving, lack of time — are common as well, but behavioral issues are also fairly common. This may be a result of denser populations and stricter laws, which make canine misbehavior a bit more noticeable.

Becky Schultz, coordinator of animal training at the Animal Humane Society in Minneapolis, Minn., the fourth ...

Author: September Morn

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