The NAPRP Blog

Jun 5

Written by: NAPRP Admin
6/5/2009 5:01 AM

Yesterday, two things transpired that caused me to think about how important it is for humane and animal rescue groups to work together. First I got an email from the Humane Society of the United States about a big puppy mill rescue they worked on in Eastern Washington, which is not too far away from here. Working with a number of local shelters and rescue groups, they pulled 371 American Eskimo dogs out of a horrible living situation.

A few minutes later, I received an email from someone who owns a cat-oriented Web site and is a big supporter of rescue. She posted an entry on her blog when a friend made a donation in her name to a cat rescue group. A commenter on her blog then "lambasted the organization." She was really upset about the experience and I explained that unfortunately this type of political bickering and name-calling isn't unusual.

The whole humane world is incredibly politically charged. Animal lovers seem to have a unique ability to judge each other harshly. In the end, the real losers are invariably the animals. Obviously, if you see poor conditions, you should report them. But if you just don't "like" the way an organization is run or the people involved, consider keeping your opinion to yourself. They may be doing the best they can with the resources they have. So if you don't want to help and/or can't say anything nice, just don't say anything at all.

When we work together, we can accomplish great things (like saving 371 dogs). Anger and divisiveness doesn't help anyone. Particularly not the animals.

Next Teleseminar is Tuesday 6/9 at 1 pm (Pacific)

"Increasing the Adoptability of Shelter Pets"
Certified Animal Behavior consultant and author Darlene Arden discusses a number of easy ways you can help make your shelter pets more adoptable. She will explain how you can train your volunteers and staff so everyone is on board to help make life better for companion animals while they are in a shelter environment.

As always, thank you for all you do to help the animals ;-)

 

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