Dogs are social animals with a deeply
ingrained need for contact with either human beings or other dogs. When a dog is kept
chained outside, it does not receive the socialization it needs to maintain its mental
health. Chaining also denies the dog proper exercise. Even if a dog is given proper
veterinary care and is fed correctly, chained dogs are still apt to develop serious
behavior and physical problems because their existence is ruled by a length of chain.
Although it may seem as if the dog has plenty of room to move about, dogs can still get
tangled up in their chains, making it impossible for them to reach shelter, shade, food or
water. Dogs that spend their lives chained have been known to grind their teeth down to
stumps. Many will compulsively lick an area on their body until it turns into a bleeding
sore (a condition known as lick granuloma). Chained dogs inflict one quarter of all dog
bites recorded by Humane Societies. These dogs frequently become withdrawn and depressed.
Compulsive barking, chewing and digging may also result.
Some people chain their dogs because of bad behavior. This only compounds the situation,
sometimes resulting in hyperactive or aggressive behavior in addition to the previous
behavioral problem. These dogs need professional training, not chaining.
Unfortunately, many people who chain their dogs are unaware of the cruelty they are
inflicting on their pet. Many dogs are kept chained because their owner did not spend the
time or energy to properly train them or because they do not have the proper facilities
for keeping a dog in the first place. There are even some cultures that consider chaining
acceptable because they view dogs as working animals, not companions.
In some countries, such as England, it is against the law to chain a dog. There are also
some counties and cities in the USA that also forbid chaining on the grounds that it
constitutes unnecessary suffering.
If you have been chaining your dog please consider an alternative. Your veterinarian,
members of dog clubs and obedience trainers can provide you with information that will
correct the behavior problems that might have led to chaining your dog in the first place.
|
