HAVE A HEART FOR CHAINED DOGS WEEK
From February 7-14, Have a Heart for Chained Dogs Week Ending brings awareness to the overuse of chains on dogs.
The goal is to stop the constant chaining of dogs. While they work towards this end all year long, the week around Valentine’s Day is one of their most prominent periods of activity. It calls attention to dogs who are not treated as family pets but like trapped prisoners of war. Dogs who are perpetually chained outdoors or left in outdoor pens suffer both physically and mentally
Dog-ownership is a big commitment. Space, time, and financial resources should be considered before taking on the rewarding role of a dog owner. While many dogs enjoy being outdoors, restricting them to the length of a chain for long periods of time is inhumane. Other options for dogs who prefer the outdoors include:
- Fenced yards
- Invisible fence
- Doggie doors
- Regular walking schedule
- Dog parks
Our canine friends require attention and training to be the best companion possible. Providing them the care they need includes limiting their chain time and allowing them to be a dog that sniffs, explores, runs, and enjoys the world around them.
HOW TO OBSERVE #HAHFCDW
The observance encourages action and support for local shelters.
- Bring your dog inside
- Take your dog for walks
- Volunteer to take a chained dog for a walk
- Visit, join, donate, buy a calendar from the group Dogs Deserve Better at DogsDeserveBetter.org
HISTORY
The Virginia non-profit group Dogs Deserve Better was formed in 2002 by Tammy Grimes who was arrested for rescuing a dying dog on a chain. She and her friends started the group and the national promotion of Have a Heart for Chained Dogs to end each year on Valentine’s Day.
