The Plight of the Rottweiler January 5, 2008
Posted by Jonny Mitchell in : Latest News , trackback
This is Max, one of the 13 Rottweilers at the Mid-Antrim Animal Sanctuary. Our escalating numbers of this particular breed is due to several reasons. Firstly, you may be aware of the recent press coverage of horrific incidents which involved Rottweilers. The savagery leaves no room for excuses yet adds to the stigma attached to this breed which stems from their guarding reputation now descending into fear and loathing.
In the days following the horrendous attacks, perpetrated by Rottweilers, which were featured on television the Sanctuary received an unprecedented number of calls and visits from Rottweiler owners – all wanting to part with their pet due to fear. These dogs had been harmless, loyal companions for many years. This trend seems set to continue as we are still regularly receiving calls and run the risk of becoming a Sanctuary for these dogs alone.
Kennel space is of the essence and no shelter can afford to only house dogs which, for one reason or another, stand very little chance of being homed. Mid-Antrim Animal Sanctuary is always full outside its capacity with a waiting list stretching beyond the foreseeable future. The Rottweilers presently in our care arrived for varying reasons; people starting a family and lacking the time, not realising the effort required to care for a large breed, over-breeding – resulting in unwanted litters, abandonment, rescued cruelty cases, not being aware of the size a Rottweiler can become and, of course, fear of the biting potential.
The truth is, a Rottweiler raised and treated with love and care will be an absolute joy to have as part of the family. They are gentle and tolerant creatures by nature and have a strong urge for companionship. Their ‘use’ as guard dogs leaves them frustrated and destructive as their intelligence means they thrive on stimulation and socialisation.
The Rottweilers at the Sanctuary need a patient and devoted owner. If you think this appeal applies to you, or anyone you know, please get in touch – our helpful staff will talk you through all the requirements and give you the dog’s history. We will endeavour to match you up with the perfect pet and perhaps, if that companion is not a Rottweiler, you may fall for one of our other forty residents!
Comments»
We adopted Murphy (a rottie) from Mid Antrim in July 2005. He is a fantastic addition to our family. He adores our other three dogs and loves to make friends with other dogs when out for walks. He clearly is unaware of his size as he quite often attempts (unsuccessfully) to sit on your lap for a cuddle!!
It is very sad that the entire breed is being viewed in a bad light due to the recent events - which have been the fault of poor and irresponsible ownership.
We must - blame the deed, not the breed!