Would you like to help the stray dogs of South Gloucestershire?
These are some of the ways you can help;
Adopt a homeless dog from the Dog Wardens or another rescue organisation instead of going to a breeder;
Unclaimed stray dogs are always looking for new homes. If we do not have the kind of dog you are looking for we can put you in touch with other groups who will be able to find the right companion for you. Although we do not rehome adult stray dogs to families with young children we often have younger dogs that would be suitable.
Join Friends of South Gloucestershire Strays as a volunteer
Even if you are not in a position to take on a canine family member you can still help unwanted dogs through the group.
Spreading the word about our strays, putting up posters and advertising for homes is a great help. If you know anyone who is considering getting a dog tell them about all the unwanted pets needing good homes and put them in touch.
Home checking. All potential new homes are carefully vetted before and after adoption to ensure that our dogs and their new owners are happy. Advising on correct care and simple training issues forms part of the home checker’s job too.
Dog bedding. Old blankets and towels are always appreciated as dog bedding at the kennels. Unwanted dog toys such as Kongs, Nylabone chews etc would be welcome for them too.
Why not volunteer to walk one of the dogs until it finds a new home? There are lots of lovely footpaths around the kennels and the dogs love the chance to get out and see the countryside. Volunteers are closely supervised by experienced handlers and dogs must be kept on the lead at all times but they do appreciate a change of scenery.
Taking photos of the dogs and uploading them onto rescue websites is a great way of promoting our homeless dogs. If you are IT savvy putting video clips of them on You Tube is even better!
Can you train dogs? Have you experience of reward based training that could help to increase the chances of a stray dog finding a good home? We try to give all the dogs a good start in learning the basics of coming when called, sit and walking nicely on the lead. Any dogs with fear problems benefit from clicker training too. Experienced trainers who can assist in rehabilitating difficult dogs are a huge help to us.
Foster homes. Although we do not often foster out stray dogs it is sometimes possible to do this under the care of a rescue group. Many organisations are extremely grateful for foster carers who may not wish to have the long term commitment of a dog of their own but can help by taking one on a temporary basis. Every dog out of a rescue kennel is potentially a space for one of our stray dogs.
Transport. Some of our stray dogs are offered places with rescue organisations further afield and need transport to get them there. If you are planning a trip and have space in your vehicle there are many rescue transport co-ordinators who would value your help.
Postering for lost dogs. Many dogs go missing by straying or theft. Putting up posters of those missing in your area is a great help and often leads to their safe return. You can find out about local missing dogs and you can register as a volunteer by looking on doglost.co.uk