How To Help A Chained Dog

If you are the owner of a chained dog, here are some things you can do to make your pup’s life better. Bring your dog inside! Your dog may need some help with housetraining and behavior to be a good inside dog. The one and only thing he wants is to be part of his human pack — so he’ll be eager to learn how to please you. Put up a fence in the yard. This will give your dog a chance to explore a wider area AND make it easier to approach your dog. A dog lunging at the … Continue reading

Animal Abuse: Chaining Is Unsafe For Everyone

Chaining a dog to an object for a long period of time is unsafe for the animal. It can also be a danger to humans and other animals! Why is tethering unsafe for humans? Dogs who are tethered can become very aggressive. It is natural for a dog to feel protective of his territory! Instinct gives a dog (and a person) a fight or flight response to threats; a chained dog does not have the option to run. Chained dogs may feel forced to attack unfamiliar people to protect their territory. The American Veterinary Medical Association reports that nearly one-fifth … Continue reading

Animal Abuse: Chaining

According to the Humane Society of the United States, chaining is the inhumane practice of fastening a dog to a stationary object or stake, often in the owner’s backyard in order to keep the animal under control. Chaining (or tethering) has been condemned by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the American Veterinary Medical Association, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, and the Humane Society. Why is tethering unsafe for a dog? Dogs are social animals. They thrive on interaction with humans and animals; dogs who are chained are often left alone and in one spot for long periods of time. … Continue reading

Is It Ever Okay To Kick A Dog?

The other night my husband, Wayne, and I took our dog, Murphy, and headed out for what we thought was going to be a fun adventure. It was an adventure all right, but not one I’d wish on anyone. We belong to a group called Team Green. They regularly meet up for various activities. Around full moons, they often meet at local trails for Full Moon Hikes. Of course, this is a perfect opportunity for dogs to come along and many owners bring theirs. We pulled up a little after the 7:30 meeting time and were relieved to see they … Continue reading