O.K. All.... enough already. #1... The owner of the NJ berner that was up for rescue should be commended for realizing that she was getting more than she bargained for, and she DID call rescue for help. Positive factor #1.
#2... Rescue was very quick to respond to the woman's needs with both, someone to take the dog and someone to offer assistance and a listening ear. Positive factor #2. #3... The owner did not just take the easy way out and give up the dog. She decided to listen to the assistance that was offered her and is trying to find a way to make the relationship with the dog what they hoped for all along. This dog was a wanted and much sought after dog! Positive factor #3. #4... The owner has attempted to contact the breeder. At the time this was originally posted to the list she had not yet reached the breeder, but... that does NOT indicate ANYTHING AT ALL about the breeder!!!!! Just that she was not available to answer the phone. The owner is to be commended for thinking of the breeder first! Positive factor #4. So...... PLEASE stop commenting on the breeder, one way or another. Seems to me, that if there are concerns regarding anyone involved with Bernese Mtn Dogs, that they should be addressed through the parent club that oversees the welfare of the breed. Most breed club memberships come with a commitment to adhere to a code of ethics. If there is a problem... that is the proper, and most effective, way to address it. As far as the "rescue" goes...... thank heaven for the wonderful people that we have running the rescue program! Not only are they there to physically rescue dogs that are in need of assistance, but they are there to assist and educate owners. They spend countless hours listening and helping! That is, by far the greatest thing that anyone can do for the breed. And........ from what I have seen in the past few months, this group out here in the Jersey area is exceptional. Remember that not everyone that calls a rescue coordinator is truely in need of having their dog physically removed. Frequently they are exasperated with behaviors and are at a lose as to how to modify them. Sometimes.... it's just plain and simple education and support to an owner with a "terrible teen." So... please, please, please.... Hug your local volunteers, commend those who have the courage to reach out and ask for help, and try to avoid looking for blame when in reality there is non to be found. Lets all be proactive, positive, and supportive. There are lots of positive things going on with this particular dog. Who knows what the future will hold, but..... it is wonderful to see the process that is allowing for the best interests of the dog, and so many people working together. O.K. I'll shut up and go watch the football games. Barb __________________________________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Yahoo! Web Hosting - Let the expert host your site http://webhosting.yahoo.com
