In Praise of Rescue Groups

Two really ancient dogs, a male and a female, were brought into a BC SPCA branch, probably over last weekend. They were both German Shepherds. One was twelve and the other one was fourteen years old. They had lived with their owners since they were puppies. The standard surrender form that the SPCA uses gives the group the right to euthanize any animal, so the owners must have been aware of this, but they just went ahead and dumped their old companions of many years.

I watched one of the dogs on Tuesday afternoon- August 16. It was a sad sight. The dog was quite slow in its movements and she appeared to be really old and not very healthy. The dog seemed lost and walked with difficulty. Probably neither of the dogs could find a new placement in the condition they were in. Local SPCA staff members expressed compassion and concern for the dogs.

How cruel of owners to dump these dogs when they needed care! Animals are so vulnerable, particularly as they age. They need their owners more than ever. When it’s time for their last vet visit, it’s the owners who should be with their animals, not SPCA staff.

The German Shepherd Rescue BC became aware of these dogs and they immediately contacted the shelter with an offer of assistance. Ownership of the dogs was turned over to them. The rescue group has taken over all the expenses associated with possession of these dogs. This really is wonderful as the costs may well be high. It also saves the SPCA a lot of expense. Rescue groups are always desperately short of money. I don’t know how they help so many animals on minuscule budgets, but they do.

Having the German Shepherd Rescue BC around, combined with the fact that the local SPCA released these very needy dogs, almost certainly enabled these seniors to spend their remaining time together and with somebody to care for them. I understand that they are now in a great foster home and that they will have a vet visit today (August 16).

For pictures of Kayla and Shadow- see