Okay, so we think we've got just the dog to add to our family, and he's at the Humane Society. Is the HS okay with the fact that the dog will have to stay outside during the day while we work? We both have steady consistent work hours and could easily keep the dog indoors when we come home...Are they cool with the dog staying outside while working? I don't want to give them any reason to doubt that we'll be good pet owners.
2006-08-18 13:35:28 · 22 answers · asked by elizabeth_ashley44 7 in Pets ➔ Dogs
Fightingpit is the smartest guy on here so far. People, why would you want a dog to stay INDOORS for 8 hours? He has to hold in his pee for 8 hours. That seems inhumane. Also, what did dogs do before people bred them as pets? Just a hunch, but I'm guessing they stayed outside and sought shelter when they needed it. That's exactly what a pet dog would do in the backyard. Thanks to anyone who actually knows the HS's stance on it, which is really all I'm after. I'm not looking for personal opinions on pet care.
2006-08-18 13:53:52 · update #1
For the love of dogs, people!!! I know animals need shelter, water, food, and attention. I'm not an idiot. Note the ability to form complete sentences. Why do people insist on NOT answering the question? If I didn't plan on being affectionate with a dog, I wouldn't be asking questions about it in the first place. Alexander D is getting best answer because he provided me with the information I needed and not a personal commentary. Sheesh.
2006-08-18 16:39:25 · update #2
What would the HS think? Well, this link is to the HS and it says what they think. To sum it up, the dog just shouldn't be 'chained' all day. They even give measurements of how much space is needed for each 'outdoor' dog.
http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care/dog_care/do_you_chain_your_dog.html
Good luck!!
2006-08-18 16:11:36 · answer #1 · answered by Alexander D 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I guess the first thing is where do you live and what is the weather like in the summer and winter.
I am sure that they would like the see the following at a minimum:
water, a place to lay down in the shade and/or a protected place (out of the hot sun, rain, etc.), a secure yard (fences), somewhere the animal won't be teased by people (kids) passing by (no open fences).
What about taking the dog with you to work? Some companies allow it now. Could either of you come home for lunch?
If the dog is very young, it is hard for it to stay by itself all day. You might be better off with an older dog.
2006-08-18 13:45:58 · answer #2 · answered by Cindy B 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I don't think the Humane Society will object to the pet being outside if conditions are humane. Is there shelter, plenty of fresh water, shade in the summer? If the weather is too harsh (hot or cold) it's better to bring the pet inside. Don't ever tie a dog to a tree or something, that is extremely abusive. A fenced yard is needed. Personally, I keep my dogs inside. I would never even think of keeping them outside. (I have four) When I say that people say but they get the house dirty. No, they don't. There are no dirty dogs, just dirty people. You have to clean your house just the same as when you have children. Also, if you are gone all day it is a good idea to adopt two. Animals get lonely. If there is another pet to play with the dog is a lot happier. You will be surprised at how much more you will like having two. Two dogs are so entertaining. They do funny stuff when they are playing. Good luck adopting and I know you will be wonderful parents for your new dog(s).
2006-08-18 13:46:44 · answer #3 · answered by papricka w 5 · 1⤊ 2⤋
Their concern will be that the dog has proper shelter as well as food and water. If he's outside during the day, he needs protection from the sun as well as protection in the winter. But why do you want to keep a dog outside all day? It's really simple to train the dog. What are you going to do if he barks all day and disturbs the neighbours?
2006-08-18 13:43:59 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Not everyone keeps their dogs in the house, mine rather be out doors anyways. The shelter's just don't want you to leave your dog tied up to a tree all day with nowhere to go. I have 2 runners in my yard plus it's fenced in. With 2 dog houses and 2 big buckets of water and about 7 dog bowls due to puppies. But we only have 2 dogs and a cat, right now.
2006-08-18 14:59:31 · answer #5 · answered by robinson 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have never been one to believe in an outside dog. They are domestic animals. They need to be social. They need love and warmth, which I am sure you will give them.
Why not get a kennel for the dog and keep him in it while you are at work. You can get big wired ones, where they have a lot of space to run and play. I don't know how big your dog is.
I am not the HS, but if the dog you are adopting has been used to being inside, I think it is cruel to keep him outside.
Not trying to scare you, this is a true story. In our police report in the newspaper, a woman left her two shih tzus outside, while she was gone for a number of hours. When she came home, they were both dead. Never heard why. But, is the dog you are adopting going to bark while you are gone? You can get a ticket for their barking. I would be afraid someone would steal it or let it out of its cage.
I think it is different when you live in the country and have outside dogs.
In your case, I hope you reconsider.
2006-08-18 13:52:08 · answer #6 · answered by rach_cast 3 · 1⤊ 1⤋
During the winter it is BAD, they can get hypothermia easily, even with there coat. In the summer, just give it lots of water, it can get dehydrated, or have a heat stroke. They need shelter too. If you work long hours, i wouldnt have gotten a dog, or at least one of the breeds that need lots of attention. But, keeping it outside in the summer will keep him from being bored. Give it toys, and mabey think about a playmate because you work so long.
2006-08-18 14:27:27 · answer #7 · answered by bettachick6721 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
If it was more than four hours, the dog would have to stay outside, for obvious reasons. As long as it's got shade, food, and water, he'll be fine, and HS couldn't do anything about it.
2006-08-18 13:41:55 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
It is fine. You could buy a small shed or kennel to put in the back or just build a dog house! Make sure it has plenty of food and water available through out the day! Also, a few toys will do!
If it is extremely hot or cold outside, bring him inside and put him in a kennel. The HS's basic rules are, Do not hurt, starve, or neglect the dog and make sure he has shelter, food, and water constantly!
Don't forget play time and a walk when you come back :)
-Jocy
2006-08-18 13:51:47 · answer #9 · answered by Jocy 2 · 0⤊ 3⤋
Most HS don't like it. I went to a local shelter to adopt a dog and when I told them the pet would be outside they refused the adoption.
they also said they sent people out to check on the animal several weeks after adoption...
2006-08-18 13:42:07 · answer #10 · answered by I love the flipflops 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋