Rescue dog website photo

[abstibus]

This is not a question, just a message for dog lovers. I got my collie/lab from a rescue centre - the staff were overworked, caring, underfunded, kind people, so what follows is in no way a reflection on them.

I have had my dog for just over a year, and last Sunday I found the website photo which prompted me to fall for her. She looked pathetic, listless, eyes dull, coat matted, the very picture of an abandoned dog who had lost hope.

I was on the beach as usual with her today, and when I saw her waiting for the ball, eyes shining, ears up, coat gleaming, on full alert, the very picture of a healthy, happy dog, I couldn't help but think of the contrast to a year ago.

She's sprawled on the sofa now having a gentle snore, but with one eye open for me to change my shoes - walkies again!

[wolf63]

I adopted my dog when he was 5. He was a big dog but he was a nervous wreck. His tail was always down between his legs and he looked miserable.

I remember the first time he held his tail up and he was strutting along looking like a different dog. I had him for 5 years.

I am glad that it worked out for you and your little princess.

[paraffin]

You did the right thing to get a rescue dog, not that any dog doesn't deserve a home. The problem is that there are far too many dogs unwanted and dog breeders only add to that fact, the vast majority in my opinion only in it for the money !
Most of ours over the years have been rescued - it's no fault of theirs that they have to languish in rescue centres, dogs homes etc etc.
And I totally agree how the staff at these places are totally dedicated to making the lives of their little inmates as happy and comfortable as possible, but they know that there's no substitute for a proper home.
One rescue dog we got over 20 years ago was a racing greyhound who had been chucked over a wall into someone's back garden and abandoned. She was a brilliant pet and still makes my wife and I chuckle now at our memories of her and what she got up to.
Our present two mutts (both collies) give us great joy, and although the younger one is epileptic, he has his little tablets for that daily and I can assure you it doesn't stop him rushing around like a lunatic chasing his ball when we're out "walkies" !
Ours have also been on beaches chasing a ball and love it as well.
Enjoy your doggie and be safe in the knowledge that you've not only obviously given her a loving home, but she undoubtedly knows and appreciates it !
Great to hear your story.