Recently on a morning walk with my two dogs, I heard a dog crying. Both of my dogs pulled me to the direction of the sound. Sadly, what we saw was a beautiful german shepherd dog tied up on a short lead, tied to a dog house, far away from his home. We used to see this dog when it was a puppy, doing what puppies do, curious and adorable. But, today, all we saw was a dog, with defeat in his eyes, staring at his human’s home, and crying. His chain was so tight that you could see him trying to pull free towards his home. Did he have fresh water, food recently, enough room to relieve himself? I just don’t know. And, I don’t know the circumstances of this specific situation, so I pass no judgment on it, but I do know what I saw and what I heard. It literally shattered my heart that morning. Maybe it was because my dog is also a german shepherd. And he is one of the most sensitive, loyal, protective, and loving dogs. I couldn’t bare to even imagine him tied to a short chain away from my home. His is part of my family.

Tethering dogs is bad! “Dogs are naturally social beings who need interaction with humans and/or other animals.”  This article by the Humane Society gives some invaluable information on this topic. Break the chains of abuse and neglect today!

I remember when I started volunteering at a local animal rescue. A few volunteers told me I would lose faith in humans when I saw how awful humans treat cats and dogs. I didn’t believe it then. And, I do still have faith in humans, but some days are harder than others. When I see dog rescue cases where dogs are left chained on a short leash, away from humans, solely for the purpose of protection of “material things.” Or I hear the cries of a dog left alone, tied up, away from humans, away from love, I ask myself, what “material possessions” are more important than the kindness towards another living being? What material things give a human the right to treat another living being with cruelty, with disrespect? Does this person know that a dog tied up is actually defenseless towards predators? Does this person know that a dog tied up on a chain cannot protect “material things” or “family” from another human being? Does this person know that a dog tied up can become distrustful towards humans, and lose its spirit.

The Dangers of Dog Chaining. “Dog chaining inherently creates a life of misery for dogs who remain solitary and tethered for much of their lives. The practice also creates secondary hazards that have killed or injured many dogs.” This article is an important read on the dangers of dog chaining not only for the dog, but for others too. Break the chains of abuse and neglect today!

What is the reason for inhumane treatment of dogs and cats? Is it lack of education, lack of kindness in one’s heart, or is it a person’s desire for power over a helpless animal? I’ve heard some excuse this awful behavior by saying “it is part of the culture”. But cultures change and evolve when facts and information teach us better, smarter, safer ways of doing things, to improve society, to improve ourselves. When someone gives the reason of abuse and neglect as “it is part of the culture”, I encourage you to question, to push back, and have the courage to speak up when you know this action or behavior is wrong – morally, legally, or ethically. 

Alternatives to tethering dogs. “There are plenty of alternatives to dog chains.” There are so many inexpensive and creative alternatives to tethering dogs. Break the chains of abuse and neglect today!

There are also laws that protect companion animals in most countries, but sometimes they are hard to enforce. Let’s encourage our leaders in our schools, in our churches, in our communities, to fight for the helpless, to fight for the defenseless. Because when we stop fighting for those that truly need our voice, need our help, I do think this is when the human race has lost its spiritual purpose and lost its way. This will be the time I truly do lose faith in humanity. I pray that time never comes. Break the chains of abuse and neglect today!

Blessings❤️🧡💛💚💙💜🤍

Alexis Cress