Laboratory Dog

[Logan]

Whew! It is just astounding what some folks put their animals through, and I praise God for those of you who are there to "clean up their mess" when they wash their hands of these loving animals.

Sandra, for some reason, I had no idea what you had been through with Cody. And Phred, I knew Smokey had a questionable past, but didn't really realize the extent of his problems. You'd think sometimes that Honey came from that kind of situation. She has the exact temperament Sandra described, especially when there are loud noises, strange objects, and when she gets out of her comfort zone (which is home). And I've had her since she was six weeks old. So, you just never know. But thanks again to each of you, and your friend, Paul, who so willingly take in these precious animals and give them so much love. Each of you is very special. I am so grateful to my friend, who took in Dexter, my little stray boy I found last fall. But he shows many of the same traits you have described too. There is no telling what these sweet little guys have been through. But we can all rest assured that their lives going forward are going to be better because of each of you.

Each of you is to be commended on your efforts. Such telling tales in this post and the one Rachel posted about "how you got your dog".

Logan

[This message has been edited by Logan (edited May 07, 2001).]

[RachelJ]

There are dogs whose temperments are just extremely sensitive. I know this from personal experience. My Tizzie was born in my house and never experienced any kind of trauma, punishment, abuse or neglect. Yet when either I or my husband picked up a fly swatter to go after a fly, she would leave the room with her head hung low and her tail between her legs. One could have easily assumed she had been hit, but because I lived every minute of her life with her, I know she never, ever was stuck, not even lightly. She was so sensitive, that all we would have to say was "I smell poop" and she again would look ashamed, hang her head down and leave the room. You never had to scold her, because she got the message from even a tone of voice that was slightly terse. Now just imagine if you have a dog whose temperment is this delicate to begin with and it has been abused, the effect would be compounded ten fold.

[Paul]

   I only have a little update on the dog in question. He is comfortable around other dogs. He has begun to play with his toys. He has learned how to go up and down stairs. Considering how he spent the first five years of his life he is doing very well. I think with time he will learn that he does not need to fear most of the people he meets.

[This message has been edited by Paul (edited May 09, 2001).]

[RachelJ]

That is good news, Paul. A little progress is enough to give the his new people some hope. It takes a lot of patience and work, but when one can see progress, you know that it will be worth it.

[gotta_hava_dog]

I had a cocker spaniel that had been abused. I got him when he was 9 mos old and had him for the next ten years that he lived. He never got over his fear of men, feet, brooms, or anything coming at his face.

I think rehabilitation will vary greatly from dog to dog. The owners just need to remember that it's in the dog's own time that he will recover his life. And he needs all the support he can get. Poor baby.

[tatsxxx11]

That's good news Paul. We all can only imagine how difficult it is for this sweet little once tortured soul to learn how to live with a happy heart. I think, relatively speaking, he has made great strides! Hope he continues to do well. Let us know, OK? And if you see him, please give him a hug and kiss.