Second Chance: Because We All Need A Little Help

14 Nov Second Chance: Because We All Need A Little Help

Second Chance Humane Society’s Animal Resource Center and Thrift Shops have been servicing San Miguel, Ouray & Montrose Counties for over 25 years. Call the Second Chance Helpline at 626-2273 to report a lost pet, learn about adopting a homeless pet, or about Spay/Neuter, Volunteer, Feral Cat, or other services. View our shelter pets and services online: www.adoptmountainpets.org.

Finn

Dear Pet Column,

I know you have pet training classes but are you also available to help answer questions about my pet’s behavior problems (such as sleeping in the kitchen sink…)?

Sincerely,

Harry Sink

Dear Harry,

You and your sink are in luck. Second Chance Humane Society offers a “pet helpline,” an additional service to the community that goes beyond simply providing shelter for homeless pets in the area. The service is just as important as our animal shelter services. Let me explain why…

Being a pet parent is not easy and, like other forms of parenting, it is not always a skill  people are innately blessed with. Pet parenting requires commitment, experience, education, and training. Additionally, some pets are more challenging than others and require even more of each ingredient.

Typically your pet’s behavior is not due to him or her being flawed. I am not making this point so you feel wrong or inadequate, but to help you recognize that behavior issues are often correctable. That’s right, your cat hiding the car keys or your puppy chewing all of the left shoes in the house does not constitute a hopeless situation.

There are always unforeseen issues with any pet/parent combo that can occur immediately or over time. Pets often react to a lack of clear direction relative to the correct behavior that is expected of them. This coupled with boredom, lack of exercise, lack of attention, etc. can all lead to “behavior issues.”

It is normal and common for new and seasoned pet parents to find themselves frustrated, confused, and stressed about the right ways to cope. The sooner behavioral issues are addressed the better, allowing you to more easily and quickly eliminate them, while preventing you from reaching thee point of giving up completely (and bringing your pet back to the shelter).

Thus, well before you get to the point of no return, there are positive actions you can take to address the issues and re-connect with your loving new friend. You can start by calling Second Chance, whose skilled staff can give you helpful tips to try at home, steer you toward working with a trainer on staff, or suggest attending our behavior training classes. The important thing is – don’t give up on your pet, find some help to understand and eliminate the behavior, not the pet.

About Me:

My name is Finn and yes it is possible to be this cute. I am a seven-year-young Bichon Frise rescued from a puppy mill. Living in a puppy mill truly bites, but since leaving that horrible place I am learning quickly what the life of a dog is really supposed to be about. And I love being outside!

I also enjoy being with other dogs and learning new things to get yummy treats. My staff think my favorite treat is turkey, but they haven’t given me pizza yet and that stuff smells amazing. My new family will find their patience and gentleness with me will be richly rewarded. I look forward to seeing you soon…