Dog Off Leash
10-13-2005, 20:40
Hey all,
Sorry to hear about your loss, Michelle. Tango was a beautiful companion for a beautiful lady. Sorry it took so long for me to respond in length, as I don't check here every day.
Now, we've all lost a dog that's been near & dear to us. For some, it was our partner, whom we relied upon when things got hairy. For others, it was a cherished companion and pet. The sense of loss & emptiness that's felt when they're gone can be incredible. However, there is hope.
In my experience, the easiest way to overcome the loss of a great dog is to immediately get another.
By no means am I suggesting a dog to "replace" Tango or any other canine compadres that have passed on - that'll never happen.
I am suggesting "getting back on that horse" and pressin' on. The quicker the better.
I've found that for some reason, especially with dogs, when a good one passes on, a puppy goes a long way to help the healing process - as long as you understand that the new puppy won't be the same as the last one. Like humans, dogs are individuals, with their own sets of quirks and the such.
So what are our options?
One option that I've been questioned on in the past - and which I definately DO NOT recommend - is the "puppy programs" where civilians adopt working dogs for the first year or so of their lives, for the simple fact that once you've raised that pooch from a lil one to a strapping young buck (or lass) of a dog - and have completely bonded with that animal - you are forced to give it up. I don't think this is fair to the person nor the animal, especially if the individual has family, or relies upon this dog like someone in Michelle's position would.
Now, if you're up to it, and meet the criteria, you can look into adopting a retireing or washed-out Military Working Dog. This option isn't for everyone, but it is out there. There is a "800" number located here: http://dodmwd.lackland.af.mil/adoption_index.htm (for some reason my options for links, smilies, etc don't work, so I had to post the link itself). This is the page for the DoD MWD Center.
However, to be honest, if you've got the time & capabilities, I'd suggest a puppy from a reputable breeder. If you still would like a large breed, i.e. German Shepherd, I can give suggestions for a reputable breeder, but be warned: good dogs aren't cheap. A good friend of mine, civilian cop and former K-9 guy, just got a new female puppy (for house, not work) and she's completely adorable. I can inquire as to price & location if any would like.
Or, a good option if money is a problem is always the Humane Society. All of the dogs my family has owned while I was growing up were "pound puppies", and all of them were great animals. My mom has one now - a chocolate lab and what appears to be Chow mix - that is just a complete & utter doll. Too small for my tastes (about 50 lbs), but still a hell of a dog.
If I can be of further, please, by all means - let me know.
Phil
Sorry to hear about your loss, Michelle. Tango was a beautiful companion for a beautiful lady. Sorry it took so long for me to respond in length, as I don't check here every day.
Now, we've all lost a dog that's been near & dear to us. For some, it was our partner, whom we relied upon when things got hairy. For others, it was a cherished companion and pet. The sense of loss & emptiness that's felt when they're gone can be incredible. However, there is hope.
In my experience, the easiest way to overcome the loss of a great dog is to immediately get another.
By no means am I suggesting a dog to "replace" Tango or any other canine compadres that have passed on - that'll never happen.
I am suggesting "getting back on that horse" and pressin' on. The quicker the better.
I've found that for some reason, especially with dogs, when a good one passes on, a puppy goes a long way to help the healing process - as long as you understand that the new puppy won't be the same as the last one. Like humans, dogs are individuals, with their own sets of quirks and the such.
So what are our options?
One option that I've been questioned on in the past - and which I definately DO NOT recommend - is the "puppy programs" where civilians adopt working dogs for the first year or so of their lives, for the simple fact that once you've raised that pooch from a lil one to a strapping young buck (or lass) of a dog - and have completely bonded with that animal - you are forced to give it up. I don't think this is fair to the person nor the animal, especially if the individual has family, or relies upon this dog like someone in Michelle's position would.
Now, if you're up to it, and meet the criteria, you can look into adopting a retireing or washed-out Military Working Dog. This option isn't for everyone, but it is out there. There is a "800" number located here: http://dodmwd.lackland.af.mil/adoption_index.htm (for some reason my options for links, smilies, etc don't work, so I had to post the link itself). This is the page for the DoD MWD Center.
However, to be honest, if you've got the time & capabilities, I'd suggest a puppy from a reputable breeder. If you still would like a large breed, i.e. German Shepherd, I can give suggestions for a reputable breeder, but be warned: good dogs aren't cheap. A good friend of mine, civilian cop and former K-9 guy, just got a new female puppy (for house, not work) and she's completely adorable. I can inquire as to price & location if any would like.
Or, a good option if money is a problem is always the Humane Society. All of the dogs my family has owned while I was growing up were "pound puppies", and all of them were great animals. My mom has one now - a chocolate lab and what appears to be Chow mix - that is just a complete & utter doll. Too small for my tastes (about 50 lbs), but still a hell of a dog.
If I can be of further, please, by all means - let me know.
Phil