A few years ago I stopped to drop off donations at a nearby shelter and decided to walk through the kennels to see the available dogs. What went through my head was exactly what many of you may think; "this is so sad", and "I can't help save them all." Well, of course not - no one can help them all - that's why we need a lot of people who can help just a little! Willing hands and hearts, one animal at a time, is what makes a BIG DIFFERENCE to the mental health and well-being of these creatures.
It's not really fair to project negative emotions - or our perceived sadness - onto the animals in need, because THEY aren't able to evaluate or compare their situation as people can. Dogs and cats live in the moment, not dwelling over their past life, however they do often struggle with a loud, busy, stressful shelter environment, and that's where the extra humans come in. The hours and days while they are waiting.....can be filled with joy because of kind people who come to walk, take a dog out for a day trip, go to the park or a walk on the beach....these things are huge for shelter dogs. And while fun activities like these offer a refreshing break from the small kennels they spend so much time in, it is also essential for them to LEARN at the same time; practice manners, walking nicely, sitting politely for a treat; these are all things a lot of people unfortunately never teach their puppies. But it's what WE can do now that matters! The way we interact with each shelter dog helps shape their learning process and new behaviors; things such as requiring a "sit" before a treat, practicing leash walking (some dogs have never even been walked on a leash before), how to take a cookie politely rather than grab it. We do the animals a disservice by allowing them to do whatever they want; they need to gently learn it's not okay to jump all over us, for example, because these countless small things WILL one day make a big difference when people come to meet them.
With most facilities across the country at capacity, there is simply not enough time in the day for core volunteers to spend enough time with every animal, but the moments that people generously choose to donate....are like rays of sunshine to these four footed friends. Many folks comment on posts "I could never do this; I'd want to save them all".... you think WE don't want that? What would help is more people becoming involved, rather than staying away; more walks per dog during the days few people can get there (weekdays). What would make a difference is anyone coming out to even spend time with TWO dogs; two walks; two chances for a dumped or abandoned animal to start learning good things about the next chapter in their lives. What would make the difference is you.
