Do Over Dogs

By Terri Estes

Giving a dog a second chance can be a challenging, but very rewarding endeavor.

Many shelter dogs have been subject to overwhelming and stressful experiences. Some of them have suffered neglect and abuse, while others have just been victims of bad circumstances. Whatever the reason is that they find themselves in their homeless predicament, it is never their fault, but the fault of the humans that were in charge of their wellbeing. They all deserve a second chance, and there are so many people who are willing to give these pups that chance, and to give them the love and attention that they need and crave.

The transition to a new home isn’t always easy and is often stressful to both dog and adopting family. Many of these dogs have shut down and become withdrawn. Some become reactive or timid, and some become defensive. They may not be ready to act like their new family expects them to act. They need time to adjust, and to learn, and to trust. It is a learning period for both adopter and adoptee.

Inside all of these dogs is a good, loving dog, who wants to be a part of a family, and who wants to please their owner. Once, the new family starts to break down the defensive walls and allows their new pup to feel safe and secure, true bonding begins.

People who have adopted shelter dogs will tell you, there is no better, more loving and loyal dog, than a dog that has been given a second chance.

Dogs are capable of the most amazing unconditional love. Rescue dogs come with stories of hardship, neglect, pain and loss, but dogs are resilient. When given a safe, loving environment, filled with positive reinforcement, they can blossom and turn into awesome, happy, fun loving, loyal family members.

So, if you can, open your hearts and homes to a dog who needs a new start, through no fault of his own. With a little patience and effort, I think you will be pleasantly surprised!

This 3-year-old Australian Shepherd is looking for a new home with a loving, active family and a fenced yard. Please contact terikoh@aol.com for more information.