2007-02-14 14:48:28 · 14 answers · asked by aggie 1 in Pets ➔ Other - Pets
Quite defiantly! We adopted a 6 month old german shepherd mix. He had not been in a shelter but was living with a family that really didn't want him. He was kept outside, full of fleas, not house trained, bone thin, nipped at his owners and was the size of a small horse. They were going to have him put down because they just didn't like him. So, of course, I immediately said "don't do that, we'll take him". That was 22 years ago. He never chewed anything up in the house, never even had an accident in the house. Our friends always told us that they would love to have a dog like our Luke.
Our children loved him so much and he adored them. Then our grandchildren came along and Luke would allow them to crawl on him and even take his food out of his mouth (which most dogs won't allow).
Even at 18 years old he played like a pup with them.
Four years ago he simply died of old age and not once did we ever regret taking him.
I still miss him.
PS: I know most people are going to say that dogs do not comprehend this issue. I disagree and will disagree until a dog tells me different!
2007-02-14 15:01:48 · answer #1 · answered by ceetee 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Never heard of the smoking thing you can have kids and smoke. I would hate to live with a smoker but that sounds strange as a rule for an animal shelter. I can see the thing about renting but they should let you if you can provide proof you are allowed pets, many rental houses allow pets. That is rather sad that you wanted to help pets and were turned away but there are rules now to protect the animals in hopes they don't see them right back. What homes do they send these dogs too?
2016-05-24 00:39:01 · answer #2 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'm not sure they know they have been given a second chance.
I do feel once they get past the hurt, the bad treatment or having to leave their families for what ever reason, they truly appreciate the affection, regular meals and walking or running in the yard or parks. I think they may try a little harder at trying to please you. I rescued a little dog & at the time she was 11 lbs. she is kinda aggressive when it comes to her food. I found out later she had been abused by some boys in the area. She has a fear of sticks and anything too tight around her neck. I'm not sure she will ever be free from these things, but I do all I can to make her life a happy one.
2007-02-14 15:10:48 · answer #3 · answered by NJ 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I don't think they know they have been given a second chance. BUT I do believe they know when they can relax and not have to worry where their next meal or hug will come from. When you adopy a shelter animal,you adopt their past and everything involved with it. It will take time patience and love, but they can turn into great friends for life!
2007-02-14 15:00:06 · answer #4 · answered by MizMissy 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
No. They don't think the way we do.They do however recognize the love and affection given to them as a positive thing.What has happened to them in the past is just that.Done. What happens now is what counts.You do however know this is a second chance for them.Make it the best one they could have ever gotten.Have a great time.
2007-02-14 15:01:01 · answer #5 · answered by just.stew 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I dont think they do realize that they had been given a second chance. Its like a little kid who has been adopted to a family, does the kid knows he has been given a second chance? no, until they mature and are able to think as an adult. Same with dogs, but dogs do appreciate that you treat them better than the other human who they had as an owner.
2007-02-14 15:41:56 · answer #6 · answered by Kitty 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Yes, I think they do know. So many People under estimate the Dogs ability to reason and think.
Yes, By all means, get a shelter dog. He will be very happy you took him out of there, and Happy for the Love you can give him...
2007-02-14 14:59:08 · answer #7 · answered by fourpawsg 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I think they do you hear so many stories about how a dog have been hurt by its so called human, and that dog has the greatest personality but it is hiden due to the abuse it has endured. Once that dog is worked with and the "trust" has come back with the rescuer the dogs personality changes and the dog will do what ever it takes to please that person or anyone else just to have that love and attention given to him or her.
I love rescue dogs and puppies they all have such a drive to live and to be loved again.
2007-02-14 14:55:31 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
No. I've adopted 3. They just know that they are happy and loved with a family, comfy home, and great yard to play in.
Good for them!
2007-02-14 14:56:15 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
animals have memories, so i believe that they do. all of my pets are rescues. they're all the sweetest! house rabbit, dog, and guinea pig. i think they remember what life was like before they came into my house and got spoiled. they always seem grateful in their own way.
2007-02-14 18:29:01 · answer #10 · answered by punkbun03 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋