One thing that has become increasingly evident to me over the course of the past year or so is the ever increasing number of those who are seeking to introduce a pet (dog) into their lives, do so by way of adoption. I certainly am an avid supporter of this mindset and when asked, will almost always refer those in search of a dog for their family, to a reputable animal rescue foundation. Two of my favorite are "Heaven Can Wait" in High River, and "Pawsitive Match" in Calgary.
I know first hand that both of the aforementioned foundations, do everything reasonably possible to ensure the folks coming to them are well informed and understand the long term responsibility of adopting a pet. Often the adoption process is spread over several weeks, which will require the potential adopters to visit the dog at the foundations facility several times before ever taking the animal home for a trial visit. The rescue foundation will invariably visit the home of those seeking to adopt the pet prior to finalizing the adoption and very often do several follow-up consultations thereafter.
Even though the rescue foundation has expended much time and energy in doing all they can to ensure a good match, what I see happening is that too many matches simply are not compatible or ultimately fail within a short time.
Why is this?
I do not believe, at least in the case of the rescue foundations mentioned here, it is due to a lack of effort on their part. Not in the least. I believe that for the most part, many people hear what is being said to them, but do not truly listen or understand the responsibility of integrating a rescue (or any other pet) into their lives. Many rescues have a history of abuse, neglect or even worse. An equal number of these pets have been surrendered or abandoned for no other reason than their previous owners simply did not understand them and could not provide the leadership and guidance all dogs need. This is not an option; dogs need a strong, responsible and understanding leader. If you are a "couch potato" do not get a hyperactive dog. If you are an avid outdoors enthusiast do not get a couch potato type of dog! If you are a mild mannered, gentle and somewhat bashful, may I suggest that most of the working breeds may not be for you. For the most part, working breeds are somewhat strong minded, high spirited and occasionally slightly aggressive by nature. If you cannot "lead" such a dog, pass him or her by. Be sure to tell your rescue foundation contact the truth about your inner nature. There is no shame in being honest and not being mentally suited to handle a more challenging dog. There are plenty of mild mannered dogs that will suit your make up. Far too often I am called to a home to assist with a fine dog that has been adopted from a rescue facility, by very nice people, just like you; however it is often evident right from the onset that the dog, although of sound character, simply is a poor match for the new owner.
Remember the "power of energy"!
If you select a dog that will on a regular basis, cause your energy to become unbalanced, then you have the wrong dog. Don't fault him or the rescue foundation for that, nor should you blame yourself (at least not the first time). Do learn though from the experience, and be brutally honest with yourself in selecting the right dog next time. Match the dogs' temperament to yours. The rescue foundation representative will assist you and give you good advice. Your responsibility though is to listen and learn. Ask yourself "is this the right dog for me, my family and our lifestyle? If the answer is even slightly difficult to arrive at, then the answer is no! Select another dog.
Remember all puppies are cute... it is the finished product though that you will have to live with for years to come. I ask you not to end up disrupting your dogs' life a few months down the road simply because your immediate wants' or his cuddly cuteness supersedes your common sense.
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Pearls of Wisdom
None are so hopelessly enslaved as those who falsely believe they are free.
A royal heart is often hidden under a tattered cloak.
Even if you're on the right track, you'll get run over if you just sit there.
Larry of KKI at outdoor Seminar
Seminar Host
Dogsville Owner - Patti Galambos
Seminar
In conjunction with Dogsville located in McKenzie, Konfident Kanines Inc will be conducting an educational based seminar in
mid-March.
The seminar will include
topics such as;
- K9 Communication
- Teaching vs. Controlling
- Myths
- How dogs learn
- Question & Answer
- Live demonstration
When: March 18, 2009
Where: Dogsville
Bay 2, 4921 - 120 Ave SE
Calgary, Ab
Phone: 403-257-1194
for reservation
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It is my belief that fully ninety percent of our ability to effectively communicate with an animal (in this case canis lupis familiaris) stems from the body language we exhibit and energy. Energy is huge! Energy is not something most of us see, discuss, or even give much thought to at all, however it surrounds us every precious moment of our life. Of course we humans are not exclusive when it comes to radiating energy, all things on this earth do so, even the earth itself. Energy is radiated at different levels, depending on our mindset; the important thing to know is that a balanced energy field is desirable. When we have a balanced energy field, we will be at our happiest and the most peaceful. I believe the same applies to animals.
Over many years and countless dogs, I have witnessed and studied canine behavior. Much of what they do and the reactions they exhibit can be extremely difficult to read or understand unless we free up our mind to accept that our aura or energy fields (the dogs and ours) must become balanced in order to effectively communicate. Although I have no formal education or training in the field of understanding auras, I do have several years of martial arts studies that also relies heavily on the power of energy. We have all experienced a "feeling": good or bad, or a "sense" about someone or something, that we can't quite understand. Chances are it is their energy field you are sensing. It is my belief that dogs can and do rely heavily on energy and their ability to feel and decipher energy fields at considerable distances. Of course they rely on their other senses as well; however I am absolutely convinced that the single most important element in effective communication with dogs is the energy you radiate. It must be balanced and positive. If you are nervous, fearful, angry, sad or even overly exuberant internally, the dog will know. You may be one who can physically disguise your feelings however your energy field is there for the animal to read. Those of you who I have worked with over the years will recall how I repeatedly refer to the importance of energy. The next time your dog is not responding to your wishes or is exhibiting unacceptable behavior, stop what you are doing and reflect on the energy you are emitting. Is it calm and assertive (balanced) or is it one of a multitude of other possible energies being radiated such as anxiety, frustration, anger or even fear. Physically we all have limitations, when it comes to the "Power of Energy" we are all equally gifted, It is how we develop and utilize our energy that is important.
