Re: I need ideas on best brand of carrier for feral

[PEC2851]

We do house sometimes 2 - 3 of the aggressive dogs together in some of our larger kennel areas. We have a group of 3 (2 males, 1 female), that have been together for at least 8 years. They do well together, but not with other dogs. We also do have a secure outside area which we try to alternate getting the dogs out to in the nice weather. But some of the dogs, especially the ones we have kenneled off property just have issues with any other dog. Keep in mind, some of these poor dogs were  rescued from fighting rings, some being the "bait" dogs. These poor souls are almost impossible to rehabilitate. It is sad, there is one in particular dog that came in when my daughter was just 4 years old. She is now 20 and he is still there. And he has not mellowed with age. We had 2 sisters, came in as puppies, with sarcoptic mange, 14 years ago. They were together their entire lifes. The one girl got cancer and when she passed, it was only a few weeks later her sister passed. We believe it was due to grief. I DO have feelings for all these dogs. I just feel so sorry for them.  I had a "special" boy who bonded to me. He was a complete angel when he was with me. But I could not take him home due to the fact that he was a totally different dog when I was not around. And having a houseful of cats and dogs, I couldn't risk it. He passed away last October, at 14, spending his entire life there. I am just glad that we had this bond because I was able to have him "out" of the kennel at least 6 days week. And as I said before, in 26 years, there was only one dog we had to put down. That was because he nearly took a volunteer's face off. Our founder believes every life is sacred, and I must respect her for that. But I have spent more time "with" the dogs and sometimes they just look so lost, confused and that's when I start thinking about the "quality" of their lifes. We have had "incidents" when dogs have gotten out of their secure areas, due to carelesness of people, not realizing how important it is to make sure the kennels are double locked. They have gotten into the farmyard and killed chickens, ducks and geese. On one occasion, one of our favorite residents was attacked, a standard poodle, and by the time we found him, it was too late. And, we did have one dog that somehow got into an area that houses both dogs & cats, and he killed a cat. A really sweet cat, who had no fear of dogs, since he lived in an area that houses both. These were tragic accidents. Who do you blame? Unfortunately, it is just carelessness of people. I have always stated that these kennels should be a restricted area, with only certain staff having access. But since we rely on volunteers, and there is so much work to be done, I guess they don't think it's a realistic option. I love all of the residents. I cried when Quentin, our miracle duck was killed. Hell, I cried over the chickens. But this is the way our shelter operates. Once an animal is rescued, if not adopted, they are guaranteed a "home for life". And we do give them all a second chance at life, and love them and care for them regardless of their problems. After all, I do not believe it's their fault..... Patti