National Rescue Dog Day Celebrates Shelter Adoptions

Tuesday, May 20, is National Rescue Dog Day!

The goal of NRDD is to encourage potential owners to consider adopting a rescue dog from a local shelter.

“Rescue dog” is an umbrella term that can apply to everything from pure breed pedigree pooches to canines of the Heinz 57 variety. Typically, rescue dogs need a new home because they have been abandoned, abused or neglected by their previous owners.

In many cases, rescue dogs also have medical conditions and disabilities that their former owners might not have been able to cope with emotionally or financially. However, these challenges don’t hinder a rescue dog’s ability to give and receive unconditional love.

With the proper training, rescue dogs can make excellent service pets and can provide comfort and companionship to people with disabilities and the elderly. They can also benefit veterans and people with mental illness by helping them cope with issues such as anxiety, depression and PTSD.

How many dogs are currently in shelters?

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, approximately 3.3 million dogs enter shelters each year.

How can I celebrate National Rescue Dog Day?

• Commit to adopt and care for a rescue dog.
• Volunteer at your local shelter. There you can help rescue dogs become more socialized by taking them for walks and helping to feed and groom them.
• Donate to your local shelter in the form of blankets, towels, cleaning supplies, grooming tools, treats or toys.
• Foster a dog and provide a rescue dog with a temporary home until a forever home becomes available.
• If you already own a dog make sure it has been spayed or neutered
• Post something in support of National Rescue Dog Day on your social media pages.

Where can I get the training I need to work with rescue dogs?

Hocking College in Nelsonville, Ohio has an Animal Assisted Therapy degree program.

This two-year program provides students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in the Animal Assisted Therapy industry. In addition to obtaining an Associate of Applied Science in Animal Assisted Therapy degree, students will also have opportunities to pursue short-term certificates in Canine Training Specialist and Pet Grooming.

The curriculum is designed with a common core of coursework, providing interdisciplinary educational elements critical for student success in the field of Animal Assisted Therapies. During the second year, students will concentrate their studies on canine or equine therapies to prepare them for their intended career pathway.

For more information about Hocking College’s Canine Assisted Therapy program, contact Program Manager Cynthia Conner by email at connerc31052@hocking.edu or by phone at 740-300-5057.