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Dogs
Mans best friend
In our modern world, dogs have transcended their traditional roles as working animals or companions, they have become integral members of our families. I live in beautiful Cambodia and we have four adorable rescued dogs. They are not just pets, they are family. And it doesn’t stop there, our family also includes rescued cats, ducks, and chickens.
Living in the picturesque town of Kampot brings me great joy, yet it also brings profound sadness. Amidst its beauty, I witness the plight of abused, mistreated, and abandoned animals, which deeply troubles me. Despite the efforts of a few animal rescue places that strive to help these poor creatures. The ongoing demand for profit-driven breeding continues to contribute to the suffering of dogs. Thus leading to disabilities and a life where they are tied up and treated merely as money-making machines.
Joe’s initiative to open a rescue centre, where he now cares for 61 rescues, highlights the urgency of choosing adoption over purchasing pets. His dedication alone underscores why it’s crucial to prioritise compassion over commerce when it comes to animal welfare.
Amidst the excitement of choosing a dog, it’s critical not to base your decision solely on appearances or trends. Instead, take the time to delve deeper into the innate characteristics and needs of different breeds. Ignoring these considerations can sadly result in your dog being surrendered to a shelter if their needs aren’t met. Understanding a breed’s specific requirements ensures a better match and a fulfilling lifelong companionship.
The history of dogs
The history of dogs is a fascinating journey that spans thousands of years. Dogs are believed to have been domesticated from wolves around 15,000 years ago, possibly even earlier. This process occurred as humans settled into agricultural societies and began forming closer bonds with certain wolf packs. Thus beginning their domestication by humans.
Imagine the lives of these remarkable creatures through their historical roles. The Malinois, bred for agility and intelligence in work, the Akita Inu, once a fierce protector, and the Beagle, renowned for its keen hunting instincts. All these breeds were meticulously selected and bred over centuries for specific purposes, shaping not only their physical traits but also their instincts and behaviours.
However, in today’s world, many of these breeds find themselves in homes where their historical roles are no longer relevant. A Malinois, known for its boundless energy and need for mental stimulation, may be expected to lounge on a sofa all day. A Beagle, bred to vocalize during hunts, might experience frustration when restricted by an electric collar.
Modern day dogs
This mismatch between historical purpose and modern lifestyle can indeed lead to profound unhappiness and behavioural issues for our beloved companions. Dogs are not one-size-fits-all, each breed has unique requirements. Whether it’s physical activity, mental stimulation, or social interaction. Neglecting these needs can result in boredom, anxiety, and even depression for your furry friend. Moreover, neglecting your dog’s needs can also create significant challenges and stress for you as their owner.
When dogs don’t receive adequate physical exercise or mental stimulation, they may exhibit destructive behaviors, excessive barking, or anxiety-related issues. This can lead to frustration and added stress in your daily life as you try to manage these behaviors and meet your dog’s unmet needs.
Therefore, before bringing a dog into your life, it’s essential to understand the responsibilities and commitments involved. Thoroughly researching their breed, considering their historical purpose, and ensuring your lifestyle can accommodate their needs are crucial steps. By doing so, you not only ensure the well-being and happiness of your dog but also contribute to a harmonious and fulfilling relationship for both of you.
It is important to consider the responsibilities and commitments involved in adopting or buying a dog.
Making a decision
Before deciding to adopt or buy a dog, it’s essential to look beyond their appearance or current trends. Take the time to understand what the dog was originally bred for and evaluate whether your home environment can meet their instincts and energy levels.
For expatriates planning to relocate, considering your dog as a cherished companion is crucial. Moving abroad with your pet requires careful planning and financial preparedness. Just as you would consider the needs of a child, it is essential to ensure your dog’s needs are met during the transition. Abandoning a pet at a shelter due to relocation is not a responsible choice and can lead to significant stress and hardship for the animal, let alone the shelter.
Ultimately, adopting a dog should signify a commitment to providing a loving and stable home throughout their life, regardless of any changes or challenges that may arise.
By setting realistic expectations and being prepared to provide the necessary environment and activities, you can ensure your dog thrives and that both of you have a more enriching experience together.
Adoption
Committing to a Lifelong Companion
Moreover, if you’re considering adopting a dog, think about adopting two. Dogs are social animals and can suffer from loneliness when left alone for long periods. Having a companion can enrich their lives and alleviate some of the stress of being separated from you during work hours.
Loving a dog goes far beyond cuddles and Instagram-worthy photos. It’s about respecting their heritage, understanding their needs, and committing to providing a fulfilling life that honours who they are at their core. By doing so, you not only ensure their happiness but also deepen the bond between you and your furry companion.
Takeaway
Please help us
Here are ten “Pay It Forward” reasons why adopting is more beneficial than buying. Because adopting a shelter or rescue pet can have a profound impact, not just on your life, but also on the lives of animals in need.
- Save a Life– By adopting from a shelter or rescue organisation, you are giving a deserving animal a second chance at life. You’re not just providing a home, you are saving a life.
- Reduce Overpopulation– Adoption helps reduce the demand for puppy mills and commercial breeding facilities, thereby combating pet overpopulation.
- Healthier Pet– Many shelter animals receive thorough medical evaluations, vaccinations, and spaying/neutering before adoption, ensuring you start with a healthy pet.
- Support a Cause– Supporting shelters and rescues financially through adoption fees helps sustain their efforts to care for and rehome homeless animals.
- Behavioural Benefits– Shelters often assess animal’s behaviour and temperament, providing valuable insights to help match you with a pet that suits your lifestyle.
- Unconditional Love– Adopted pets often show incredible gratitude and loyalty, forming deep bonds with their new families.
- Variety of Breeds and Ages– Shelters and rescues offer a wide variety of animals, from puppies and kittens to mature pets, allowing you to find the perfect match for your family.
- Cost Savings– Adoption fees are generally much lower or FREE. So it is 1000 times better than purchasing a pet from a breeder or pet store, and many pets come with vaccinations and spay/neuter is included.
- Educational for Children– Adopting a pet teaches children about responsibility, compassion, and the rewards of caring for a living being.
- Make Room for More– By adopting, you free up space in shelters for other animals in need of temporary or permanent homes.
Pay it forward
