Opinion: Shattering the myths about shelter dogs


Opinion: Shattering the myths about shelter dogs


MONTREAL — I was greatly disturbed by the ideas expressed by Joan Coull in her commentary on the Opinion page (“No SPCA dogs for me” Nov. 23), mainly because they show a profound lack of knowledge regarding dogs and their behavioural issues as well as a gross misunderstanding of shelter animals. I realize she may not be alone in her misconceptions about breeder vs. shelter dogs. This is why I feel compelled to bring attention to some of these myths. Among them:

Myth No. 1: Shelter dogs have behavioural issues, while breeder dogs do not.

Regardless of where your dog comes from, breeder or shelter, there is always the potential for behavioural issues. This is because behavioural issues are overwhelmingly the result of human mishandling rather than the animal’s hard-wiring.

Myth No. 2: All shelter dogs have behavioural issues.

Speak to anyone who runs an animal shelter and you will learn that dogs are abandoned for all sorts of reasons other than bad behaviour. Among the most common reasons are lack of time, a change in family circumstances (e.g., divorce or the arrival of a baby), moving to a property where pets are not allowed, or the sudden onset of allergies. Sometimes pets are given up because their owners have become permanently incapacitated, or have died. Just because a dog is in a shelter does not mean that it is a problem dog. (And even dogs that have been “damaged” by previous owners can overcome their issues with knowledgeable owners who can provide a nurturing environment. I know a number of people who have adopted puppy-mill dogs that have turned out to be excellent pets.)

Myth No. 3: Behavioural issues are permanent, and cannot be fixed

Many factors give rise to behavioural issues in dogs. Often these problems have more to do with how the owner handles the dog and responds to trigger situations, than with the dog’s inherent characteristics. Dog owners can through their own actions and reactions unwittingly reinforce problem behaviours. Behavioural issues in dogs can be modified — with proper training for both the dog and the owner. Sometimes the solution can be as simple as exercising and socializing the dog more. There are many positive and humane ways to resolve behavioural problems, such as hiring a canine behaviourist rather than crating a dog in a garage or euthanizing the animal. Also, remember that dogs can’t speak. Sometimes problems believed to be behavioural (such as frequent urination) are related to a physical ailment like a urinary tract infection. Try consulting a vet.

Myth No. 4: All shelter dogs are mixed breed.

Shelters are populated by dogs of all ages, colours, shapes and sizes. Some are mixed breed, some are pure breed. There is absolutely nothing inherently wrong with mixed breed dogs, but if your preference is for a purebred dog, you can often find one at a shelter. I have adopted two purebred Bernese Mountain dogs from the SPCA, one senior and one puppy.

Myth No. 5: Breeding your own dogs is the best way to avoid problems.

Breeding is much more complex than simply mating a male and a female dog. One needs to have an in-depth understanding of genetics in order to take the precautions necessary to minimize temperament and genetic issues associated with a given breed. Hip and elbow dysplasia, for instance, are common among large breed dogs. If not careful, one can produce a litter of dogs prone to serious health issues. There is less risk of this happening with a reputable registered breeder than there is with a backyard breeder.

It is unfortunate that in defending her right to acquire her dogs from a source other than a shelter, Ms. Coull felt compelled to target the SPCA and its supporters. We as a society owe a debt of gratitude to the legions of volunteers and shelter workers who do their utmost to ensure the welfare of innocent animals that have fall prey to the shortcomings of humans.





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