Written by Mara Brown, Master Dog Behaviorist
This month I want to discuss how to avoid a problem I see far too often: Dogs landing in shelters because something happened to their human and there was no plan in place for their cherished companion. As responsible and loving pet parents, we provide for all of our dog’s needs … food, shelter, vet care, play and tons of cuddles. But sometimes bad things happen. Accidents, illness, and death can leave our beloved pups in a bad situation. They may be left alone in a home for a while before anyone finds them. Or there is no one to care for the dog when their person is hospitalized or otherwise left incapacitated. The saddest situation is when a dog is left behind after their beloved person dies without a plan in place to care for them.
Make sure you have a plan for your dog, legally, should you become hospitalized, or pass away. Designate someone (preferably someone close to you that the dog knows), that has accepted the role of your dog’s caretaker to take over your dog’s care shouldyou need to be away because of hospitalization. In your will or trust, have that person legally designated- and leave some money for that care. Things happen, and although we never want to think about the worst, be prepared, so your pet will never have to face the sad fate of losing you, their home and being put in a shelter.
I wish you and your pup a long and healthy life together.
For more advice, training or life coaching, reach out at 310-467-2334 and visit www.LifeCoachingForDogs.com
