You put all that together and what have you got, really? It's a bit strange, yet not. They had no one, they depended on each other for all they needed and now they need someone to step up and take both of them because the shelter is not going to separate the pair. I get it. I think that's right. But, where does the new owner fit in? If Cesar Millan is right and we're their pack, then, the human has to be the leader, right? Who leads here? The Pit, the little one eye, or the owner? In my younger days, I would have taken them both, no questions asked. But, now I have to wonder, where exactly would I fit in with these two? Am I just a food dispenser? That'd be okay, I guess, but, not exactly ideal. The ARE cuties and you can tell from the many pics, they aren't shy and nervous, even after all they've been through. (That's a whole other post, on that kind of dog.) They deserve a good home and they will get one, no doubt. And they will always be together, but, I'd sure like an update on how the new owner is doing with them and just who is really in charge.
What do YOU think about this 'pack' idea? Is it right? Can't dogs just be your friend? I really don't know.
7 comments:
I believe in the dog pack idea. Most dogs will fall in line behind their person...and then some don't, and they are the "problem" dogs. I think these two will probably be loyal to each other first, and then give whatever affection they have left to their new owner. Some people are cool with that. That's why I'm a one-dog person. I want all the love.
I just still don't know about this pack idea. I don't know why they have to have a pack. I understand it, but, why do we have to be them? Why can't they be like us and just hang out? I think they do. At least some do.
I've always had dogs, almost always multiples except for right now when my sweet girl died. I have my boy, though. Don't think I'll get another because of the fear of me croaking and not having good homes for them. My boy has a good place to go. It gives me peace.
We are always pals, and sometimes they tell me what to do. It's ok. I love them dearly and I know what they are thinking. Especially the border that just died. How I miss that girl.
Actually that whole pack, dominance, alpha dog concept has been pretty much debunked. Here is just one link but you can find many more. http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/canine-corner/201007/canine-dominance-is-the-concept-the-alpha-dog-valid Behavior modification is really the way to go with most animals. You need to find what motivates them. I've had some dogs so eager to please that all they really wanted was an enthusiastic "good dog" as a reward.
I read y'day that a study proves dogs feel emotions. Well, Anybody that has dog's knows that. But they make each other feel safe now and forever. Even when they don't need that. They've been thru hell and back. I totally get it. But if someone is good to them, gives them their space, feeds them and gets them their vet visits and loves them. They will do ok. I wouldn't advise having children or other dogs in the home , however. They need it to themselves. Or they could revert to "survival" mode. They need a warm barn to live in and just whatever human contact they will allow. They are precious. It's a lovely story. Dogs are my heart.
Rox
I don't think I believe the pack idea. Or maybe I do, because I think that when you get a new dog, they have to figure out where they are in the family (pack). Emma had trouble adjusting until Harley took over the "daddy" role, playing dog play with her, and putting her in her place. It has calmed her.
In the case of these two, I think Rox is right. They will need to be only-dogs, no other dogs in the house, and they will have to slowly adjust to trusting a significant human in their lives. It won't be the usual dog/human relationship, because their devotion is only for each other, but it could work out just fine for someone who wants dogs, but not the obsessive devotion you sometimes get.
Christina
Please help support Hope For Paws if you can (www.hopeforpaws.org), the rescue organization run by Eldad Hagar (the man who rescued these two babies and who is my wonderful neighbor down the hall)! This is all he does - drives around Southern California day and night rescuing abandoned, sick and hurt animals. He was responsible for the rescues of Fiona (the little blind poodle) and Miley (the beautiful white husky), both of which were found in trash heaps (videos went viral so you may have seen them). Thanks much, Linda
Post a Comment