You've decided to give up your pet, and you're wondering if New Leash
On Life can take your pet. Please be aware that...
We receive over 100 requests a week for us to take an animal in.
We have a very limited amount of space and before we can rescue a dog,
one of our current dogs must find a home first. (We do not currently rescue
cats.)
The moment a space opens up, we go to the shelter and rescue a dog that
is in danger of being euthanized. Technically, your dog has a home.
How can we choose to rescue your dog and deny the dog in the shelter a chance
at life?
Having said all of that, we're still here to help in any way we can.
Before you decide to give up your pet, ask yourself the real reasons
you are doing it. Below you will find information and helpful tips
for the most common circumstances.
You just don't have the time for your
pet. He deserves a home that can give him more attention. We can't even tell you how often we hear this. But unfortunately
your pet does not have a voice. He can't tell you that he would
rather stay with the family he has known and loved all his life.
Animals ask for so little in return for their unconditional love. We
humans are not nearly so selfless. That must be why we crave the
love of these wonderful creatures. Now think about it... you took on
the responsibility to care for your pet for its entire life when you
adopted him/her, right? You must have 5 minutes in your schedule to
play some ball or spend some time snuggling with your pet when you sit
down to watch your favorite TV program. I mean, isn't that why you
adopted your pet to begin with? Dogs and cats have feelings, too...
they go through psychological torment when they lose their family.
Your pet deserves to stay with the family he/she loves.
Your dog is
out of control, jumps on you and your kids, destroys your house, etc. Okay, c'mon, we all went through an obnoxious teenage stage, right?
Our parents didn't toss us out... thankfully! Every dog around 8
months old to 2 years old goes through a difficult period. Hey,
guess what helps? Training! Now,
you didn't have to be a rocket scientist to figure that one out.
Trust us, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. You just need
better communication with your dog, and you both will get through it.
And guess what your reward will be? A pet that will love you
unconditionally for the rest of its life! Not bad, huh?
I'm
pregnant and am not supposed to be around cats. Okay, here's a common misconception. You can be around cats...
you just aren't supposed to change their litter box anymore. So
here's a great idea! Get that husband or boyfriend to do it. I
mean, with all that you are about to go through for the next 9 months,
it's the least they can do. And kitty will be so grateful!
My
dogs don't get along with each other. Before you decide you need to separate the dynamic duo or trio or
whatever, contact a Behaviorist to evaluate the situation. It may not be
as bad as you thought. Perhaps the problem can easily be solved and you
can keep on loving your canine buddies.
My dog is aggressive towards
people. Once again, our suggestion is to contact a Trainer or Behaviorist that
specializes in aggression. When something becomes inconvenient or the
animal is more than you can handle, so many people just wish to pawn their
problem off on to someone else. Here, you want my dog that bites?
So often, however, the problem can be solved.
Now, granted, there are special
circumstances that require that some people give up their beloved pets.
While New Leash On Life is dedicated to rescuing animals from the shelters
and streets, and can therefore not take your animal, we can offer
you help and advice. Fill out our Courtesy Listing form to
have your pet posted to our web site.
And while you're doing
that, make up flyers with your pet's information. A cute picture and
story go a long way! Post those flyers in local vet offices and pet
stores, place an ad in the newspaper... and network, network, network!
It's up to YOU to find your pet a safe and loving home.
Things to remember...
There are 18,000 animals put to death in Chicago each year.
Most shelters are full beyond capacity!
A stray dog is generally given just 5 days to be adopted... if that dog is not adopted, it could be put to sleep,
sometimes as soon as that first day. Your dog (an owner turn-in) could be euthanized at any time.
The shelters are full of young and old dogs, purebred and mixed, sweet and shy... don't assume your dog will be easily placed just because he's cute or has a great personality.
When you adopted or bought your dog, you took on the responsibility of that dog for the rest of its life. Remember that a dog is an actual life - not a piece of furniture to be given away when it no longer fits. Dogs are such wonderful, compassionate, giving souls... we hope you find it in your heart to keep your pet.
