Behavior Problems in Rescue Animals

You visit the nearby animal shelters and see all of those adorable canines with the puppy dog eyes and pleading expressions and what can you do? Maybe you only came to volunteer or leave some dog toys for the animals there, but once there you are hooked like the proverbial fish.

Well, many people can't say "No" and they find that they are soon leading a new pet home before they realize what's happened. I certainly don't blame them because I am a pushover for those rescue animals that long for a forever home and family of their own. Although I began as a part time volunteer at a local animal rescue shelter, it didn't take me long to fall in love with each animal I came in contact with.

In fact, my inability to refuse the hound-dog looks on those sweet pet faces placed my name at the top of many foster, rescues, adopt and shelter lists and has been the driving force to my current circus of pets including 4 dogs and 5 cats. Between the dog toys, pet food and animal treats in my shopping cart there is often little room for my own grocery needs.

One thing that I am greatly aware of is the behavior problems that can occur with rescue animals. The dogs that have been treated badly, neglected, or abused can have issues with socializing that need to be handled by someone experienced with this type of training. For many of these animals re-socialization is mandatory before they are able to be offered for adoption. Dog toys are a favorite way for many trainers to make a connection to these frightened animals.

Rescue dogs have often lost their innate sense of trust and they may exhibit strong territorial behaviors about food that can create problems. They can also be wary of any strangers that try to approach them. It is quite common to see these animals growl, bark and snap because of their fear and prior conditioning. This is when dog toys come in handy, a variety of these may be offered before a dog has a positive response. When a reaction is noted to a particular item, it will be used to facilitate the training program by helping to gain the dog's trust and interest.

If you are fostering one or more of the rescue dogs to help their socialization process you should be aware that their jittery nerves avoidance of people stems from many negative incidents in their past. Not raising your voice and offering them praise for the desired behavior will help calm them. Using small treats and an assortment of dog toys will give these animals a sense of security and boost their confidence. For many lonely and nervous pooches, these dog toys will become their security blanket.

Luckily, there are devoted handlers, trainers, and volunteers who will make the effort to show these rescue animals love and kindness. These people will commit long hours to socialization and rehab sessions that will change the way these dogs think and behave. The dogs are able to gradually adapt and learn good behavior that makes them ideal adoption candidates. When their new family is ready to take them home the dog usually insists on taking his beloved, and well loved, dog toys along.