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Rescuing Bulldogs in Need

Dedicated volunteers search diligently for happy bulldog homes.

     Even now, more than two years after the fact I still remember the smell that pervaded that minivan.  It was like a dead dog.  It was the nastiest odor.  I couldn't get it out of my van.

     The odor had come from nine sick, neglected Bulldogs that were among the 24 rescued in September 2000 from a puppy mill in Mount Joy, Pennsylvania. 

     Not every rescued Bulldog gets as bad a start in life as those.  Still, quite a few Bulldogs find themselves in need of rescue from places where they are treated badly, neglected or at best misunderstood.

Why Bulldogs need rescuing

     Aside from outright cruelty and neglect, the reasons Bulldogs find themselves in need of rescue vary.  Some are breed specific others are not.

     Human failure often gets a Bulldog into trouble.  Bulldogs are dominant dogs, and if the owner does not train it, many become quite obnoxious.  Difficult dogs and independent breeds are much more active than many people expect, and unless they are taught manners, will play very roughly.

     If the dog is allowed to believe it is the pack leader, it may threaten, snap and even bite its owners or anyone that makes it try to do what it doesn't wish to do.  In the dogs mind, it is fully justified in putting that person back in his or her proper place.  Unfortunately, this type of behavior almost always escalates.

     Another breed specific reason that Bulldogs lose their homes may be the dogs emotional dependence on their human companions.  Of all the reasons that people give for relinquishing their Bulldogs, the most breed specific probably is when the family has a new baby, and consequently, has less time for the dog.  When that happens, the Bulldog may develop behavioral problems that new parents feel unequipped to solve.

     Persistent health problems can also jeopardize a Bulldogs bond with its human companion.  Bulldogs are notorious for chronic, long term health problems.  Among those problems are skin ailments and recurring infections, as well as the need to pay special attention to cleaning the many folds of their skin.

     Some Bulldogs lose their homes for the same reason other dogs are relinquished by their owners.  Sadly pet owners often tire of caring for a pet.  Pets require training, attention and create more housecleaning.  Some pet owners put he conditions of their homes and material possessions ahead of the needs of a living creature.

Bulldog Rescue

     Sometime, though fate comes between a Bulldog and its people.  The death or illness of and owner, change in owners working hours, a move to a place where dogs aren't permitted or a family members allergies can also force a person to give up his or her Bulldog companion.