Trust is the first step to Better Canines

Many animals that find themselves at a shelter have experienced traumatizing events, neglect or abuse which can lead to fear based reactions or aggression. 

During an appearance on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse, Sheridan Dog and Cat Shelter dog trainer and founder of the non-profit organization, the Unleashed Foundation, Marian Eccles, told listeners that in many cases dogs arrive at the shelter with little to no documented history. 

Eccles operates the Better Canine training program. This training provides a certificate that the dog must earn through a series of tested behaviors. The certificate goes with the dog once they are adopted to their new home. 

Both Eccles and shelter dog lead Emi Whiting evaluate the animals upon arrival to assess the potential for future adoption. But with many of the facility’s temporary residents, the staff knows very little of what the animal has experienced before reaching the shelter. 

Too many dogs have been subjected to neglect or abuse, causing the animal to distrust humans. In those cases, staff begin by simply developing trust. 

To learn more about the Sheridan Dog and Cat Shelter, click here.