Precious Dogs

A few people have asked me why I have a dog like Loki (that’s him to the right as an older puppy rescued last year before coming to his final home here). Meaning: why I chose a behaviorally-challenged dog (to put it politely). People who meet him sometimes misunderstand him. He’s a talker and has a lot of anxiety, most of which is beginning to subside. But it takes a lot of work. His story before coming to foster care and eventually to me wasn’t good. In fact, it was downright awful.

Then I find out about stories like Precious, a GSD who was horrifically abused. I won’t reiterate it on this blog, as you can read about it in the link. (Warning: the story may cause a salt water flood to pour out of your eyes.) Suffice it to say, Precious’ story is a lot worse than Loki’s story.

Wild Dingo tries hard not to be a hater. But that policy goes out the window when we hear stories like this. We find it hard to be understanding and secretly hope the monster that harmed Precious gets worse than what he or she inflicted upon her. After all, pop psychology tells us if a person treats helpless animals in this way, he or she probably treats people the same way.

Its stories like this that keep me grounded in my choice to work with a dog like Loki, who is showing so much potential in becoming a good dog. It is so rewarding to see his behavior change daily, weekly and monthly. Just this morning a contractor at my house became great friends with Loki quite quickly, though Loki appeared very tough at first when I introduced him on leash. Each new stranger I “happily” introduce him to, becomes easier and faster for him to accept at the house.

I’ve read that Precious is very sweet and gentle and she will completely recover physically. Mentally, emotionally and behaviorally, she will most likely face some challenges. Whoever is lucky enough to give Precious a home, will need a lot of patience in dealing with the baggage that Precious will likely develop as a result of the long term abuse she received. I just hope that person or family realizes how rewarding it can be to work with a special dog like Precious and the many thousands who are abandoned and viciously abused. All of these survivors are precious.

If you’re thinking of getting a dog, please consider rescuing. If you’re crazy about a specific breed, look for rescue organizations that focus on your favorite breed. There are so many! Realize that there may be issues with your new family member, but there are so many tools available today, even free online articles, to help people address challenging dog-behaviors. With patience and proper guidance, there’s no reason why any one of these precious dogs cannot become loyal loving family members.

If you want to help Precious, or know anything that can help police find her abuser, please visit her help ad on Craig’s List.