Have a Heart for a Chained Dog

Because all of my pets are such an integral part of my family, it is hard to imagine that anyone would leave their loyal, loving dogs tied up and alone far from the people whom they recognize as their pack. Unfortunately, thousands of dogs, across our country, endure this sadness everyday. As the days become years, many of these dogs sit, lay, eat, and defecate within the same 10-foot radius. Chained by the neck, they exist without respect, love, exercise, social interaction, and sometimes even basic nourishment. They live as prisoners, yet long to be pets.

Chaining is not only inhumane for dogs, but has taken a severe toll on this nation?s children as well. In the period from October 2003 through today, there were at least 325 children killed or seriously injured by chained dogs across the country. Chained dogs, unsocialized with humans, can become very territorial of their tiny space, and any two year old who wanders into this space can be attacked and killed before adults can intervene. A recent attack in Arkansas in October 2009 left 2 year old Matthew Clayton Hurt dead from head and neck wounds. He was attacked and killed by an unspayed female chained in the backyard, with puppies.

No matter what reason is given, the bottom line is that it is NOT ok to chain a dog for life. Dogs should not have to live chained or penned as prisoners, yearning for a place in a family, craving acknowledgment, respect, and love. They DESERVE BETTER, and we as caretakers have the obligation to provide it for them. Sadly, many localities either do not have laws in place to protect the helpless or they do not enforce the laws that are on the books.

Today we will do our part to help Dogs Deserve Better with their 9th Annual Have a Heart for a Chained Dog Campaign. They are striving to raise awareness for chained and penned dogs in a positive way...by delivering Valentines, a brochure and a treat coupon to dogs living outside all over the U.S. and into other countries where we they have representation, such as Canada and England.

So please join us as we make 200 handmade Valentine's cards. I ask that you bring along paper ( construction or cardstock), scissors and any coupons that you might have for dog treats or food. If you are aware of a chained dog, please feel free to jot down its address so that DDB can send a Valentine to that household.
The hope is that 17,000 cards will be sent this year. In past years, the group has helped build fences for owners who want their dogs off the chain and accepted countless surrendered animals.

All of our cards and coupons will be bundled up and sent on their way to DDB's Headquarters in PA. For more information about this truly remarkable group, please visit: http://www.dogsdeservebetter.org