Dog's Worst Case Scenario

This is not a 'how to - survival handbook' because dogs do not usually survive the many worst case scenarios they face in living with people. This is not a list of the horrible things that happen to dogs either. This is a look at how we got to this place where, according to a study completed in 1999 at Tufts  University School of Veterinary Medicine, two-thirds of all dogs born in this country, did not live to see their second birthday. Since dog ownership has increased from 55 to 73 million dogs from 1999 to 2006, I'm hopeful that that statistic is no longer accurate.

What happens between people and dogs to account for this? As a society, we're different today than yesterday. We're busier, working longer hours, living alone more, and generally running in circles trying to make ends meet. And, somehow think that adding a dog to the mix is a good idea, that things will just work out. And so it goes that too many people are unprepared for the work of having a dog. 

Foremost is that puppies become dogs too quickly! Those new to dogs, be they breeders or owners, often have way too much to learn in too short a time. Each and every interaction matters. The list of "to do's" is not just a what, but a how, and, absolutely comes with an expiration date. Problem prevention begins the moment the decision is made to get or breed a dog. Without an understanding of all that must take place from 3 to 18 weeks of age, things may never be right between people and dogs.

That's right! Three to eighteen weeks, before and after a puppy goes to the thought to be forever home. What does or does not happen in that short open window of opportunity makes all the difference in a dog's ability to have a good life with people. Sadly, many 'breeders' know very little about their part in the making of a good family dog. Puppies have needs that must be met a very young age. Having 'papers' does not make up for having missed out. Dogs matched to yield good looks over good temperaments represents much of what has gone wrong for dogs. Price tags in the thousands still cannot insure good health or longevity.

Even if a puppy gets his or her needs met through the first months of life, chances are some things will still go wrong. That's just life. Where people usually fall short on behalf of dogs is the thought that a puppy class is good enough or that they can train the dog at home. Eventually, with this mindset, deficits show themselves in a lack of understanding of what is normal canine behavior and how best to respond. The differences between people and dogs can cause significant conflict. How we approach and greet one another is a source of trouble when we greet dogs in the same manner, especially when we are unknown to them. One trespass leads to another and another. And, when dogs are left to figure people out on their own, all too often, they end up having to defend themselves.

It is generally accepted that dogs end up in shelters as a result of behavior problems. At two years of age, most dogs are still considered adolescents. They have considerable energy and most have 'nowhere' to put it. Life ends almost before it begins. A worst case scenario? Than to be totally misunderstood by those who chose to bring you into their world? 

Vera E. Wilkinson - written in 2008