Many pugs we welcome into PDWRA suffer from a variety of physical conditions, especially those associated with the breed, such as breathing problems and so on. For the most part, these can be fixed by treatment or surgery. We are now seeing quite a few who suffer from some form of behavioural issue which has come about during the lives they previously lead before coming to PDWRA.
Who knows what these pugs might have endured, we can only guess for the most part. Our fosterers are not trained behaviourists; they can only offer kindness and endless patience. This often works, as the pug gradually learns to trust humans again and go on to lead a happy life once confidence in the humans around them is regained. Henry is a case in point who reacted adversely to some humans and had recourse to the only defensive mechanism he had – to bite. In this case, a member of the Foster Carers family. Options to place in situations such as this are limited as we of course have to pay due regard to the safety of our Volunteers.
So, step up Valerie, who knowing his background agreed to foster Henry with a view to adopt should she and her family, with support from PDWRA, be able to guide him back to leading a happy and fulfilling life. One of our Trustees gave some basic behavioural advice, together with a local Volunteer who has connections with a local Veterinary Practice. Week by week, they gave advice which has gradually steered Henry towards letting down his guard and allowing him to trust those around him. The whole family have worked together to bring about this change. Work still needs to be done, but he is a much happier dog now than 6 months ago.
It has taken time and a lot of patience, with some wobbly moments, but Valerie finally felt confident enough to go forward with Henry’s adoption. He was particularly mistrustful of Valerie’s husband, especially around late afternoon, early evening oddly enough. We can never know, but wonder if this was triggered by the behaviour of a male of his former household coming in from work. Whatever happened in his past life, Henry is now a much loved part of the family – how thankful we are that there are those prepared to give a second chance to pugs like Henry, whose lives have been shaped by the behaviour of others. A challenging task, but a rewarding one.
Jackie Maynard
West Midlands VAC
