From my ongoing series of animals in a German shelter...

Hachiko

See thread for more information.

#PletzfeldShelterAnimals #AnimalRescue #photography #animals #dogs #DogsOfMastodon #FidoFriday #darktable #mywork #myphoto

Our shelter veterinarian contacted us after a couple brought their five-year-old Labrador retriever to him for euthanisation. This was due to several biting incidents, some of which left the victims so seriously injured that they had to be hospitalised. We then took Hachiko in. When he was handed over, I noticed he was constantly shaking his head and scratching his ears. A subsequent examination by the vet revealed a severe ear infection. Hachiko must have been in a lot of pain.
We treated his ears over several weeks until the infection had subsided. Nevertheless, we had to handle Hachiko carefully. Since we were told that confined spaces and food were problematic for him, nobody was allowed to enter his kennel. He was put on a leash for walks outside the kennel and his food was placed inside while he was out. This way, we had no problems with him. He was a perfect dog on walks. He never pulled on the leash and was always friendly towards other dogs and people.
Given his history, I had feared Hachiko would have to stay at the shelter for a long time — after all, who wants a dog that might bite? — but the first prospective adopters came forward after just four weeks. They were so enthusiastic that they adopted him soon afterwards. We haven't heard of any problems with him so far.
The intent of my posts is not to find people to adopt these pets. This German shelter only accepts local adoptions and has a very good placement rate. My intention is to raise awareness of all the beautiful pets in shelters out there waiting for you to be their hero. Go to your local shelter to find your new pet. Adopt! Don't shop!
@jpletzfeld my regret is that I cannot snatch up every single dog showcased in such posts
@me No one can do that. Not even me. And it doesn't have to be that way. You can also help these animals by volunteering at animal shelters. It won't change the whole world, but it will change the world for these animals.
@jpletzfeld 💕Thanks for Sharing😍
❤️Happy Friday👍
👋Have a great Day ahead😀