Rover in chains

Imagine being chained to a space of 6 ft x 6 ft for your entire life. Imagine there is nowhere to shelter from the elements, be it sun or rain, or at best, you have a little shelter where you can hide from the rain and sun, but always chained to the same spot. If only Rover could talk! But alas he can’t. If you take a close look at him, you may just see him pleading with his eyes to relieve him of a life condemned to misery.{{more}}

Of course, we hear different arguments for having Rover in chains. One of the most prevalent is that the yard is not fenced and left unchained, Rover will wander around the neighbourhood attacking people and animals. Of course, that will be the end result of Rover wandering around the neighbourhood.

In such instances where there in no other option, it is advisable to secure Rover on a tie out cable that gives him ample room to exercise. There should also be a proper dog house that is kept in a sanitary condition, with ample space for him. Rover will also appreciate it if he can be taken for walks two or three times per week.

If you are thinking of acquiring a dog, your first consideration should be whether or not you have the conditions necessary for him to live a happy, healthy life. This would include in our conditions: a fenced yard, the ability to ensure that Rover is well fed and not be there just to eat leftover food.

Rover will also have to be adequately vaccinated and consideration should be given to have Rover seen by a qualified veterinarian and not by someone who claims to know more about Rover than a veterinarian, whenever necessary. As I always say, Rover never asked us to own him; we are the ones who choose to own Rover. The least we can do is to ensure that Rover has a good life.

Quite often in my clinic, I see cases where the dog’s collar has cut through the skin of his neck. The owner realizes that there is something wrong only when the characteristic putrid odour is smelled. One of my clients, Clem Iton, has his “clinic day” every Saturday, when he thoroughly examines all of his dogs for anything unusual. I am not saying here that you have to be that dedicated; even I, as a veterinarian, am not that disciplined, to check out my pooches every week. But it should be done periodically by the owner to prevent such situations from occuring.

Website: www.uniqueanimalcare.com