The British Columbia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) has recently announced that four Presa Canario dogs rescued from a breeder in Clearwater, British Columbia, are ready for adoption. However, the organization warns that these dogs are not for everyone due to their breed characteristics and the trauma they have experienced.
In January, these four dogs were among seven puppies and six adult dogs that the SPCA removed from the breeder who surrendered two adult dogs in a similar condition. These dogs were found in sub-zero temperatures with no food, no fat on their bodies, and no way to keep warm. At the time, the SPCA's senior protection officer, Eileen Drever, stated that it was one of the worst cases of animal cruelty she had seen in decades. The puppies were about 10 weeks old, while the adult dogs were under three years old.
Since then, the dogs have made significant progress, gained back fat and muscle, and are all spayed and ready for adoption. According to Angela Henshaw, an animal care specialist at the Kamloops SPCA, the dogs have the strength to go on real walks and play, and it has been an incredible process. However, Henshaw also points out that these dogs are not like any other dogs. Presa Canario breed is fairly affectionate, but it doesn't take well to strangers, is not generally friendly to other dogs, and doesn't have a lot of patience with children. Therefore, Henshaw warns that these dogs might need people experienced in animal training to take them home.
She adds, "They are a bit fearful, very destructive to toys and bedding. Feeding them around other dogs, too, is something to take into consideration because these guys just inhale their food."
The SPCA's recent announcement has received attention on social media, with some expressing interest in adopting these dogs. However, the SPCA reminds potential adopters to consider the hardship these dogs have suffered. According to the organization, the dogs were bred to be sold for profit during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when many Canadians felt the need to adopt or buy a pet for companionship while under health restrictions on social gatherings.
Ashley Fontaine-Ost, a senior manager at the Kamloops SPCA, stresses that dogs with trauma are different and that people interested in adopting these dogs should think about that. She says, "Dogs with trauma are gonna be different, so people need to think about that."
It's essential to consider the trauma these dogs have gone through before making any decisions about adoption. While some may be eager to help these dogs, it's important to ensure that the adopted dogs' homes are suitable and will provide a secure and caring environment. It is the responsibility of the adopters to ensure that the dogs are well taken care of and that they have a happy and healthy life.
The SPCA's rescue and rehabilitation of these dogs are admirable, and it's heartening to hear that some of them have found their forever homes. However, it's also crucial to remember that there are still countless animals in need of rescue and care worldwide. According to the ASPCA, approximately 6.5 million companion animals enter animal shelters in the United States each year. Of those, approximately 1.5 million are euthanized. The majority of these animals are not Presa Canarios, but they all need a safe and loving home.
Adopting a dog is a significant responsibility and should not be taken lightly. Those considering adoption should ensure they have the time, resources, and appropriate living conditions to care for a dog. This is especially true for animals that have suffered trauma, like the rescued Presa Canarios. These dogs have been through a lot and will require patience, care, and attention from their new owners. It's essential to be fully aware of the hardships these animals have endured before deciding to adopt them.
According to Ashley Fontaine-Ost, a senior manager at the Kamloops SPCA, people interested in adopting rescued Presa Canarios need to think carefully about the responsibilities that come with caring for these animals. She says that dogs with trauma are different and require a different approach to care. Potential adopters should be prepared to work with these dogs to overcome their fears and insecurities.
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