Why Must I Walk My Dog?

There are many people who would like to adopt dogs but do not want to walk their dogs, at least not regularly. Walking their dogs, they feel, is an activity to do "when the mood strikes". At the very most, they take the dogs out on the weekends or on holidays, as if the walk were a luxury for the dogs, rather than a necessity. It has made us so paranoid that we may be sending our dogs to a life of imprisonment that we are hesitant to paper or pee-pad train our dogs!

Despite popular belief, the walk is not just so the dogs can go potty. So it does not matter if the dog is housebroken or if the dog has a large garden to do his business in. The dog may be a domesticated animal, but they still have some primal instincts. One of these is the need to walk. The dog, no matter how small, coiffed and cute he may be, is the descendant of the grey wolf. Wolves are nomads by nature and spend up to a third of their time on the move, sometimes covering more than 150km in search of food. This wanderlust is deeply ingrained in a dog's DNA. While the story of the lone wolf has been romanticized in stories, the wolf is mostly a pack animal. This pack mentality has also been passed on to the dog. Ever noticed how your dog gets really excited before a walk? This is a remnant of the pack behaviour from their wolf ancestors, where they exhibit the same excited behaviour as they work up adrenaline before a hunt. 

  

While letting a dog run around the garden or at a dog run is good exercise, they are not substitutes for walking the dog. These activities do not provide the same mental stimulation a dog gets by investigating every sight, smell and sound on a stroll. A garden, no matter how big, is still a prison if the dog is not allowed outside the 4 walls. Can you imagine being on house arrest even if home was a large mansion? Can you blame dogs for developing neurotic behaviours if they get put on doggy house arrest for most, if not all, of their lives? 

Walking a dog helps socialise the dog. The dog will get to meet other dogs and people on the trail. Even if the dog does not get to meet any other dogs on her walk, she will still learn about the other dogs who have been through the area by their pee. Dogs checking other dogs' pee is like humans checking updates on Facebook. This allows the dog to find out about who the other dog is, and what he has eaten that day and if he is feeling under the weather or not. All this information just from a sniff!

Regardless of whether there are other dogs in the family, the dog is still a pack animal. The humans in the household become part of the pack. Where along the hierarchy the humans fall into is dependent totally on the humans themselves. Walking the dog the right way helps to establish the human as the leader of the pack. The dogs will fall into place as long as the leader position is assumed. Otherwise, the dog may start to assert himself over the human if he feels that he has no leadership. This is the start of most, if not all, of a dog's behavioural issues. A well-walked dog is a well-behaved dog. Not only does the walk provide the dog with physical and mental stimulation and leave the dog contentedly tired, it also helps establish the human as the leader in this relationship. 

The best part about walking a dog? It helps cultivate bonding between the human and the dog. Spending time with your dog discovering new places and sharing experiences strengthens and enriches your relationship with your dog. Not to mention that walking the dog has an indirect benefit of keeping you active and healthy!

So take hold of that leash and walk on, pack leader. May your walk be full of discoveries and wonders for both you and your dog!

Written by : Sam

Adopt, Don't Shop!

"Let’s get that Chihuahua, or Silky Terrier, or how about that Teacup Poodle?"

Walk into any pet shop and you are bound to hear people repeat questions like this all the time. It saddens us when the decision to get a family pet hinges on the condition of the potential pet being purebred.

Lucky Pearl and her forever love

Since racism is frowned upon in the human world, why can't we also stop the stereotype that only purebred dogs are desirable? These unfortunate purebred dogs on display are mostly bred in pet farms under dire health conditions, and the dogs used as "baby ovens" to churn out puppies are often found to be grossly neglected, abused and in extremely poor health.

AVA recently implemented guidelines on proper pet farm practices, but when secret checks were conducted, they found that the majority of pet farm operators still do not adhere to these guidelines. For every dog that you coo over in the glass display, there are many unseen and suffering ones in the pet farms. Stop supporting the dog breeding industry so that fewer dogs have to suffer!

Wang Wang and his siblings

Instead, walk into any dog shelter and you'll see there are hundreds of healthy, fun-loving and equally adorable dogs looking for a home, at a fraction of the cost! They all have their own stories to tell and are pretty resilient after going through their ordeals. Some have big personalities, some prefer to hide between your ankles, some are so docile you can leave your babies with them unattended, some are the perfect exercise buddies and some are just happy to be your shadow. There are so many different characters to choose from and each one is unique in their own way.

Alfie and his mommy

Marley and his new family

Ariel Bean and her new sisters

All of HOPE's dogs are taken for a full comprehensive medical checkup, vaccinated, sterilized, microchipped, tested for parvo virus, distemper, kidney and liver functions (all costing almost $1000, sometimes more). That's more than most pet stores will do for their puppies for sale. We must say, we are extremely proud of what we do for these rescued dogs. Some know basic commands and with a little patience, can be taught all sorts of tricks. Some are taught to be little helpers around the house; fetching and putting away things, guarding the front door, entertaining children, and some are taught to be companions and healers, going around to people who need some cheering up. And then there are some who simply want to be your lapdog, jumping into your lap at every opportunity.

Muffin and her mummy

Amber and her Papa

One thing we know for sure, is that all rescued dogs are very thankful and appreciative of you opening your hearts and homes to them, and giving them a second chance at life. All lives are precious, be it big or small-sized. Adopt a rescued dog and save a life today!

Visit our adoption page to save a life.

Cassie Needs A Home

Introducing sweetest Cassie!!

Gorgeous

Gets on well with dogs

Cassie is friendly and sociable

Despite her size and height (she's like a little pony), Cassie is the sweetest, most gentle dog you will ever meet. Calm, elegant and polite. She is fun and playful when it's time to play, but also obedient and well-mannered when she needs to be. All you need is a soft NO and she drops what she is doing and behaves!

Cassie absolutely adores babies and young children

Cassie is estimated to be almost two years old and she's a rather good looking dog. She is adorable, sometimes goofy and her mannerisms will make you laugh. She keeps herself entertained with her toys and she loves her food and treats. She has no aggression with food and humans. She allows you to pat her, open her mouth, touch her while she is eating etc. – such is the sweet temperament of dear Cassie.

Her eyes light up whenever she is with children

We had rescued Cassie as a feral dog as she was found in a densely forested area, and we estimated that she would require at least 3 to 6 months of rehabilitation, if not more. How wrong we were! After a mere week, we realized she loved hanging out with other dogs and found strength and confidence just by being in their company. She watched them play with toys and observed their behaviour and mimicked them. This was a true eye opener for us as well, as we realized how our pack of dogs had taught Cassie confidence, courage, and how to behave like a pet dog. It was more than a human could ever teach.

In no time, her true colors emerged. We realized that she was just a big baby who loves to play, eat and sleep! She loves to play with toys and gets along with all dogs, even the smaller ones as she sees all dogs as her playmates.

Cassie's a pretty good swimmer

So good looking and obedient

If you want a sweetheart who is the size of a pony, please email hopedogrescue@singnet.com.sg 

Cassie is estimated to be almost 2 years old, a local crossbreed, female and in perfect health. 
*Not HDB approved.

Ariel Beanie - A part of US!

My family and I first came to know about Ariel and her other siblings through HOPE Dog Rescue's Facebook page. We took interest in the page describing the volunteers' efforts in rescuing Emily Bean and her cute little puppies. As my wife's birthday is fast approaching, with the kids' constant bugging to have a pet, it did not take us long to decide on adopting one from the organization.

To be honest, Ariel wasn't our first choice back then and most people would have already guessed the reason why... YES, it was because her colour was BLACK! Grandma was a traditional person and felt that black was an unlucky colour. We admit we were disappointed when we were told that the puppy of our choice had already been adopted. Nevertheless the whole family still made our way to view the available puppies and there Ariel was, sleeping with her eyes closed like an angel when the volunteers carried her out. When we first held her, she was snugging into our arms like a baby looking for warmth. My wife even commented that she had that "professor look" as her facial prints appeared similar to a puppy wearing spectacles. The first impression we got from Ariel was that she was not as active as her other siblings and would definitely be good for a family with young kids. After the family's discussion, we decided that she was the one. That was the first lesson that this little beanie taught us as a family... never to discriminate against a dog by its COLOR.

Ariel Beanie first entered our lives on 07 May 2015. The family was excited that night as we were all expecting her arrival, along with the preparation of her new sleeping area, together with some new toys. She was probably tired after coming out from the vet and slept peacefully throughout the night at her new home. Everyone was amazed at how lovely she was. However her puppy behavior began the very next morning.

It started out from whining in the wee hours to play biting, chasing and nipping at our children's hands and feet, destroying and chewing stuff all the way to barking at family members. It was a challenge for us parents as we have to handle both our young kids and taking care of this new puppy at the same time. We decided to clench our teeth and face the challenge head on by seeking advice from the volunteers and other dog owners that we got to know along the way. Constantly reading up and watching YouTube videos on the internet regarding puppy related issues have also helped us to understand more as to why Ariel would display such behavior and how to minimise it. Ariel's arrival has taught us parents to be MORE attentive, patient and understanding. This applies not only towards Ariel, but to our own kids as well.

Taking care of a new puppy was never as easy as we thought it would be. They need to be fed every four hours during the initial stages, like a newborn baby. Ariel also had to learn her boundaries and we had to guide her to the correct places to poop and pee. The first two to three months were pretty tough and frustrating as Ariel could not seem to understand what we wanted. She would occupy the sofa, bark at us and pee and poop all over the house. We later on learn the benefits of crating her in a playpen and only allow her to roam certain areas of the house when she is under proper supervision. We also roped in the kids to assist in cleaning the mess which Ariel has created. The kids would initially give comments such as "smelly" and "yucky" and refuse to clean up. However over time, the kids learn that these actions are part of the responsibilities of owning a pet. It soon became a fun thing for our kids as they would fight over who dares to pick up the poop when we bring Ariel out for her daily walks. The kids have also taken up a role in supervising Ariel when adults are busy at home. Without realizing it themselves, Ariel has actually taught them a good lesson on commitment and responsibility.

We recall an incident when we took Ariel out for a usual walk and there was this family with a kid walking towards us. The kid told her parents, "This dog looks so big and scary," and the parents pulled her away. At this moment my younger daughter, aged four, asked us "Why the family is so scared of Ariel?" We took this opportunity to explain to them the reasons why some people are afraid of Ariel. On different occasions, we ourselves as dog owners took up this role to share with others that dogs who are bigger in size may not be as aggressive as they are perceived to be. Nowadays, the kids will take the initiative to explain to other kids at the playground when they encounter such remarks. We are extremely proud that the kids have learnt to understand Ariel's behavior and explain the reasons behind it.

This little beanie has learn to accept her two human elder sisters as part of her family. They would play together, sleep together and even defend each other when they got scolded from us for doing something wrong. We consider ourselves lucky that we have adopted Ariel because the bond she created for the family is way more than what we expected. We're sure the journey of our family does not end here as there will be more challenges ahead when we grow old together. Ariel Beanie has definitely become a part of us, a part of our lives.

A Miracle For Elmo

Regular readers would be familiar with the type of depressing stories we usually post on the plights of the strays. This post however, is the complete opposite! We are absolutely, utterly ecstatic, thrilled and elated to share that Elmo HAS BEEN ADOPTED!!!

Read about Elmo's story here.

Elmo and his new mommy, April

Family bonding time

X’mas came early for all of us here at Hope Dog Rescue and this piece of awesome news is the best Christmas present for us! Our hearts leaped with joy and tears of happiness were shed as Elmo is not our usual rescue case; he is a special needs dog. Elmo is almost deaf and blind and has congenital skin problems. Although his health got better over time, he was often overlooked for adoption due to his conditions and outward appearances.

Do you see how his eyes light up now?

Look at that million dollar smile!

We had almost given up hope of ever finding Elmo a home. We remembered when we first rescued him, he was skeletal and nearing death. He did not know how to eat and drink and didn't even look like a dog at all. The expression in his eyes said it all; he had severe health issues and had lost faith in this world that meant nothing but pain and suffering for him. Heartbroken at the state we found him in, we hastily bundled him to the vet and whispered to him to hang on, to hold on to life, because we promised him that there will only be better days ahead.

Today, we fulfilled that promise to you Elmo, you'll finally have a family who will shower you with love and affection and a place to call home at last. Go live a better life now Elmo! We will miss your goofy smiles and silly antics, but our hearts are bursting with joy for you! Bless you April and family, for giving this disadvantaged dog a chance to experience a loving home in this lifetime. You have made a significant difference to his life. THANK YOU.

Elmo's adopter, April, is just 23, yet she is completely undaunted by the responsibility of taking care of a special needs dog. Elmo is indeed lucky to have found this kind family!

---

ADOPTER'S STORY

Despite having a happy fur family of 2 bunnies & 2 hamsters, I felt that my (human) family and I had enough space for one more furkid. And he had to be a doggy.

Being an animal activist, l was well aware that senior & special needs dogs usually had the least chances of finding a home. Hence, inevitably the decision was made. All it took was an email and I got to meet my new son. After house checks & several preparation, it was arranged to foster Elmo for a weekend.

My parents were a little skeptical at first, given that Elmo was a little more bigger in size than they had anticipated. But by the end of the weekend Elmo had captured their hearts... especially my mom's. How could he not?! With his adorable eyes and cheeky smile, anyone is bound to be spellbound by him.

Fostering Elmo was not as difficult as I had expected it to be. Once both Elmo and I got the hang of the daily routine, I began to include more things such as cooking for him, bathing him etc. The kind volunteers guided us step by step.

Elmo seemed to understand what was going on and his daily antics amazed me. He has this habit of choosing his favourite person of the 'day'. He will latch on one of my family members and follow them around the house. Recently he seems to have taken to bright colours. There was once he found a bright pink tote bag, cleverly took it by it's handle and trotted to the living room to surprise us!

I've seen his patience when my other furkids bullied him. He didn't turn his head when my bunny went up to sniff his tail. He did nothing but to grunt softly when one of my naughty hamsters nipped near his neck. Poor Elmo! I made certain that the little hammie had good telling off from me on the spot.

After several weekends of such fun fostering, we decided to go ahead with the adoption, so that Elmo can be a part of my family. Elmo taught me about perseverance, he taught me to broaden my heart & mind, to stay optimistic for anything is possible.

Elmo was once thought to be deaf, blind & perhaps autistic. But it doesn't seem to be the case now. He is able to see certain colours and seems to recognise our faces and voices. Although he doesn't respond to basic commands... yet, he has proven that he is able to hear. Just tap his food bowl and he'll come bouncing to get his meal! He has learnt to climb up and down the stairs, and he loves his walks. He likes to watch the community cats & humans whenever we pass by them during our walks.

He has been trying so hard to give his best at living. And I must agree that he continues to succeed. A huge thank you to HOPE Dog Rescue's volunteers for everything. We are grateful & pretty much honored that Elmo has chosen us to be his furever family!

With love from Elmo's new mommy, April Vishnu

Tis The Season Of Giving

Another year is drawing to a close.

Have you fulfilled most of your 2015 New Year resolutions? We have. In the past one year, we have helped almost 40 dogs and cats. And we're mighty proud of that!

If you've followed our journey over the last one year, you'll know that we've really chalked up a lot of vet bills. Each time we clear them, another injured dog comes in. Sometimes there'll be more than just one sick or injured dog at the vet, and often, they stay long. Bad injuries (which are unfortunately very common among the street dogs we rescue) mean a few weeks' stay at the vet. Broken bones, maggot wounds, etc. all cause our vet bills to pile right up. We've been working really hard, but no matter how many vet bills we clear, they never seem to end!

So as of now, we have about $8,000 in vet bills.

Will you help us to clear our bills so we don’t have to worry this Christmas? During this season of giving, why not give to the less fortunate by helping us to save the dogs? With more funding, we can always do more. We would be overjoyed if we could just clear this year's vet bills, and start with a fresh slate in the New Year. We can't wait to start saving lives again.

And if you're looking for a little furry friend to bring your family some additional cheer, all these loving souls are waiting for their forever homes. Will you take a rescued doggy home this Christmas?

If you would like to help in any way at all, please email hopedogrescue@singnet.com.sg

Uncle Seng's Cats

Thank you for responding to our plea to sponsor the boarding of Uncle Seng's remaining cats. Kind donors have stepped up to assist us with December's boarding and the mandatory one month deposit so that we can board all 6 cats at the same facility.

Read about Uncle Seng and his pets here :
Original rescue story

Follow up story 

Warded at vet

Some are understandably very stressed, given that it is yet another move for them in such a short period of time. While we were getting them settled in, we noticed 2 cats drooling and looking sickly. As our vet's bills are mounting, we decided to take Ashley who seemed to be in a more dire situation to the vet first. At the vet, it was discovered that she has severe gum disease. Her gums were bleeding badly and so ulcerated that there was even pus oozing from her gums. Also, her teeth were mostly rotten, so you can imagine the pain she is in and how much she must have been suffering. No wonder she was drooling so badly and can't eat, resulting in her skeletal frame. Almost all her teeth had to be extracted and she only has 4 teeth left now.

Mouth full of ulcers and pus

Subsequently, we send the other sick cat, Nina, to the vet. She turned out to be the more serious of the two. After sedation, they found that her entire mouth and throat were covered with ulcers that were so bad that they couldn't even insert the tube down her throat. The surgery had to be cancelled. The ulcers are a result of a viral infection; Calici which is contagious to non-vaccinated cats. On the bright side, her appetite is improving and she is put on antibiotics and steroids. She can be discharged soon and in view of her weak condition, we hope she can recuperate safely in a foster home where she can be closely monitored. Any deterioration and she will need to be brought back to the vet immediately.

It has been weeks since Uncle Seng has last seen his cats after he moved out from the factory he called home for years. He misses them dearly and sadly, one passed away before he can say goodbye. Hopefully, we will be able to take him to see them this week and this will lift their spirits considerably.

The cats are:

Socks (one of the cutest and the fiercest)

Socks

Female, healthy and feral. Not accustomed to human contact.

Berto

Berto

Male, FIV-positive. Very sweet and friendly, even allows humans to hug and cuddle him.

Pearly

Pearly

Female, FIV-positive, sick with chronic cat flu and tongue ulcers on her tongue. Sweet and friendly. Allows humans to carry and cuddle with her.

Sofie

Sofie

Female, FIV-positive, still recovering from an eye infection. Her eye was bleeding and she had been warded for 10 days. Timid and shy but not fierce, tolerates human contact.

Ashley

Ashley

Female, dental problem. Friendly, allows human contact and can be carried.

Nina also warded at vet

Nina

Female. Severe dental issues and inflicted with feline calicivirus. Shy, not too friendly, but tolerates human contact.

Although we can barely afford the vet bills, we have no choice but to send them in as we cannot bear to watch them suffer. We need help with both Nina's and Ashley's vet bills as well as the boarding fees for all 6 cats. Although we have managed to get their December's boarding sponsored, we still need help with January's boarding fee urgently as well as subsequent months until they get adopted.

If you can contribute towards boarding or vet bills, or foster/adopt any of the cats, please email hopedogrescue@singnet.com.sg. Uncle Seng would be happy to know that his cats have received help.