Second Chance: Prevention of Cruelty

19 Apr Second Chance: Prevention of Cruelty

I am learning that, in general, humans are pretty well-intentioned. I love that some human out there decided to make the world a better place by working to make April National Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month. Whoever thought up that idea has to be a pretty cool person…and, in my opinion…a bit cooler than the people who established National Skipping Day, National Richter Scale Day, or National Stop Snoring Week (also all happening this month…).

Courage

So what do humans do during National Prevention of Cruelty month?

In the Telluride region, where animal lovers are the norm and the vibrant lifestyle incorporates playing in the mountains and fresh air, it is hard to believe that people would be cruel to us innocent, well-intended furry beings.

But alas, I know you hear the stories…

Thus, if you are aware of animals being treated cruelly, this month is a good time to take action. This month reminds us that animals can’t speak out for themselves and if pets are being kept without ample food, water, and shelter, it is your responsibility to report the bad behavior.

However, this month’s theme is about prevention more than intervention.

The best preventative action you can take is to be kind and loving to all beings. Maybe pick one particular being to be kind to this month and see what happens – remembering that kindness travels a far greater distance than malice.

It is a simple algorithm: yelling at someone to stop hitting their dog will only make them hit harder in private, yet showing someone kindness will soften their souls and alleviate their anger internally and externally. And being kind simply makes a person feel good.

Another kind thing you can do is help a senior dog like me, who knows the bowels of cruelty well, find a new home.

My name is Courage. I am an Aussie/Husky mix with a courageous heart. At age 10, I am starting my life over. I have endured a pretty cruel life in a puppy mill and am ready to finally live the way I deserve to live, as part of a loving family.

Getting away from my ugly life and coming to Second Chance was the big turning point. But, because of my background, I am a little shy when meeting strangers so I am having a hard time finding a new family.

All I need is a bit of love and patience and I warm to others. I am now learning that people are not inherently cruel and heartless and this fact is brightening my spirits. I get along well with other dogs and cats and enjoy teaching them how to be sweet and gentle with each other.

If a feline will do you good, I recommend you come meet Milkshake. She loves to cuddle and turn a bad day into a great day.  She is only two-ish and is very friendly with all people, cats, and dogs. But she prefers to be an indoor cat only.

Milkshake

Come meet us today and together we can be the good you want to see in the world.

Editor’s note: It’s no secret. The Telluride region is dog heaven. Well, pet heaven. Unless you are one of our furry friends who gets caught in the maw of neglect and abuse. Then heaven is on hold until Second Chance Humane Society comes to the rescue. Second Chance is the region’s nonprofit dedicated to saving animals’ lives and promoting responsible pet parenting and human-animal bond. In her weekly blog, executive director Kelly Goodin profiles at least one, generally two of the many animals now living at the no-kill shelter, Angel Ridge Shelter, a dog and a cat, hoping to find them loving permanent homes. The column is sponsored by Ted Hoff of Cottonwood Ranch & Kennel, who from time to time exercises his skills as a dog whisperer, partnering with Kelly and her staff to help train a particularly challenging animal.

Ted Hoff & Magnificent Mae

By the by, there is no better place to park your pup or get your pup (or adult dog) trained than Cottonwood whenever you head out of town (for locals) or are heading to town and staying somewhere that does not allow pets. Consider joining Ted’s Very Important Dog (VID) Club for added benies. (Details on Ted’s website.)

Second Chance Humane Society Animal Resource Center and Thrift Shop are both located in Ridgway, but service San Miguel, Ouray & Montrose Counties. Call the SCHS Helpline at 626-2273 to report a lost pet, learn about adopting a homeless pet, or about the SCHS Spay/Neuter, Volunteer, Feral Cat, or other Programs. View the shelter pets and services online: www.adoptmountainpets.org

Vetting the Vet: Dr. Michelle Dally, DVM, J.D. is Medical Director of Second Chance Humane Society. She also has a private practice, Dally Veterinary Medicine, 333 S. Elizabeth Street, Ridgway, Colorado. Her service area is  San Miguel Mesas, Placerville, Ridgway, Ouray, and Montrose. For more on Dr. Dally, go here.

Michelle & Wallowby