The emotional toll of dog abandonment: understanding the impact on canines

Imagine a world where one moment you’re snuggled up on a soft couch, warmly enveloped in the presence of your family. The next moment, you find yourself confined in a noisy shelter, surrounded by the unsettling smells of unfamiliar surroundings. This jarring reality is far too common for many dogs who are sadly returned to shelters after years spent in loving homes.

For these canines, abandonment is not just a vague concept but a profound emotional crisis. They are left to navigate feelings of confusion, fear, and grief. The partners they cherished become mere memories within hours, leaving behind a void filled with uncertainty. Dogs may react in various ways; while some shut down completely, others may display distress by pacing and barking repetitively for the families they have lost. Tragically, the trust and training they acquired in their first homes start to fracture, as the progress made during rehabilitation and socialisation dissolves into despair.

The emotional toll does not stop with the dogs—it reverberates through the shelters themselves. Each kennel occupied by a returned dog signifies one less space for a desperate stray still awaiting rescue. The return of a dog is not merely an inconvenience; it represents missed opportunities for countless others who might find solace and care in those same kennels.

Why do people return dogs?

The reasons for returning dogs are broad. Some are indeed justifiable, stemming from severe situations like sudden illness, death in the family, or unexpected financial hardship. However, many returns come with a litany of excuses that often seem weak and unfounded: “We’re moving.” “We don’t have enough time.” “He grew bigger than we expected.” “She barks too much.”

In many cases, a lack of preparation plays a crucial role. Some adopters dive into ownership without researching the breed’s needs or the long-term commitment required. This is particularly evident when adopting puppies, who can be chaotic and demanding during their ‘teenage years.’ Unfortunately, many people throw in the towel before their new companions mature into the loving and steadfast friends they can become.

There is also a faction that treats dogs as mere accessories, relishing the cuddles and social media opportunities without understanding the responsibilities involved. When life becomes hectic, these dogs can quickly turn into afterthoughts, cast aside as their owners seek convenience over commitment.

The emotional effect on dogs

Being returned doesn’t just wreak havoc on a dog’s psyche; it’s an ordeal that can be starkly traumatic. Picture being uprooted from your family and thrust back into the stark surroundings of a concrete kennel after years spent in a warm home. The din of the shelter, the loss of routine, and the abrupt absence of a familiar touch strike hard—often leaving lingering scars. Some dogs stop eating, while others cry inconsolably.

Over time, many dogs adapt to the shelter life, but the emotional wounds seldom heal completely. Rehoming an adult dog for the second time proves a daunting challenge; their heartbreak is etched onto their spirit, and not every dog has the resilience to bounce back from such abandonment.

A call for responsible pet ownership

Life can be unpredictable, and there are genuine instances where rehoming a pet may be necessary. However, it should always be regarded as the absolute last resort. Potential pet owners should explore every available option before making such a decision. Reach out to shelters like TEARS Animal Rescue for guidance and support, consult trainers, and engage your community in discussions about responsible ownership.

It’s essential to remember that a dog is not a piece of furniture that can be returned when it no longer fits one’s lifestyle. A dog is family. They experience loss with a depth that can sometimes exceed our own understanding. When that familial bond is severed, the result is heartbreak that echoes through their very being.

TEARS Animal Rescue: a beacon of hope

TEARS (The Emma Animal Rescue Society) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming of neglected and abandoned animals since its inception in 1999. Their mission is not just to save dogs but to educate pet owners, particularly in under-resourced communities in the Southern Peninsula of Cape Town.

Through various initiatives, including free sterilisation and subsidised medical support, TEARS strives to address the needs of its communities. Their two mobile clinics and veterinary care accessible at welfare rates highlight their commitment to providing healthcare for vulnerable pets, while their partnerships with community-based NGOs help create systemic change.

By implementing effective animal welfare solutions within high-density, low-income areas, TEARS contributes positively to not only the animal population but also fosters human welfare through education and community involvement.