Sled dogs: Lonely and starving no more

Submitted from Quebec by Janell Matthies, UAN Emergency Services Manager

All of the dogs were cut from their chains and moved to the temporary shelter yesterday. Half of the UAN team went into the field to help rescue the dogs and the other half remained at the shelter to prepare for and receive them. There is one “lone wolf” who wouldn’t allow himself to be caught, but every agency involved is committed to getting him and bringing him into the life of luxury that all of these dogs are headed for. It was an exhausting day for dogs and volunteers alike. Very chilly temperatures mixed with a lot of mud and years and years of feces, urine and trash made for a difficult morning.

The dogs were very vocal when the group showed up to take them out of the woods. I think they could tell we were there to save them from a life of loneliness and starvation. Now, in the temporary shelter, if they get riled up and start “singing” we just have to say “sssssshhhhhh,” and they automatically quiet down. This has been thoroughly entertaining to the volunteers as we all vie to be the “shusher.” It adds a little bit of comedic relief to our day.

I will send more pictures and stories later today as we get to know these sweet dogs. They are just desperate for attention and looking forward to lunchtime very much.

Top photo courtesy The HSUS