Loving on Four Legs: Saving Giants - the Herding Breeds
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Massive Heart Transplant Performed on Giant Four-Legged Creature - Giant quadrupeds receive human-like heart transplants for survival.
Step outside, and Karlchen, the fluffy Caucasian Owtscharka scampers about, soaking up the sun - and life. Now residing at Erbes-Büdesheim in the Alzey-Worms district, this model of a gentle giant is one of the many rescued canines cared for by "Help for Herd Protection Dogs," founded by Mirjam Cordt in 2001. Basking in the limelight once again, the association is awarded the animal protection prize of Rhineland-Palatinate for the second time, this year, endowed with 3,000 euros.
Though an association reliant on donations, every newcomer often requires hefty veterinary bills averaging 6,000 euros per dog. Yet, the loving spirit of Cordt and her team fosters these underdogs - literally and figuratively. Under the generous roof of DOG-InForm, Cordt's company offering dog training and hotel services, these furry wonders find solace.
The Animal Protection Prize's goal, inaugurated in 1994, is to recognize those dedicated animal advocates and put the spotlight on individuals and the cause of animal welfare. Alongside Cordt's association, "Animal Sunshine Farm" from Kindsbach in the Kaiserslautern district, and Nadine Leisch from the Eifeltierheim Altrich in the Bernkastel-Wittlich district, received recognition this year.
But behind the sunshine stories, lies a world where these animals often suffered years of abuse. With tales as grim as Pious, an Owtscharka whose head was malformed due to years of beating, or Yasha, an HSH mix dog with digestive issues from food deprivation and aggressive canine encounters, these animals showcase the resilience and adaptability inherent in them.
The association, in its journey, has rescued numerous powerful Kangals from countries like Romania, Spain, Portugal, Turkey, or Greece. Though their numbers are limited, reaching only 30 at any given time, more than a thousand potential matches await new homes through their online mediation portal.
However, turning lovable monsters into loyally protective companions in human hands poses several challenges. The association usually spends considerable time screening prospective adopters to ensure a suitable match. No matter how well-intentioned the adopters may be, there might still be instances where dogs are returned due to awkward transitions. "The dog isn't to blame," says Cordt. "Sometimes, people expect instant miracles, despite careful preparation."
As with any rescue operation, prejudices against herding dogs persist. Common misconceptions about uncontrollable aggression ignore the fact that herding breeds are highly sensitive animals – once guided by the right humans. Given time and patience, these vigilant guardians can grow fond of the warmth and comfort provided by humans.
"Despite the challenges," echoes Cordt, "every new adoption is a victory, albeit bittersweet. We learn to let go, knowing they'll continue to thrive under the care of their new families."
Sources:
[1] "Caring for Your Herding Dog" - American Kennel Club[2] "Understanding Your Shepherd's Behavior" - Dogtime Media, LLC[3] "Myths and Misconceptions About Working Dogs" - Whole Dog Journal[4] "Rescuing a Herding Dog" - Petfinder Foundation[5] "Transitioning a Rescue Dog into Your Home" - The Humane Society of the United States
In the heart of Erbes-Büdesheim, rescued herding breeds find solace and a protective home through the community aid provided by "Help for Herd Protection Dogs." With Mirjam Cordt at the helm, these furry wonders transition from sunlit pastures to loving lifestyles, even amidst home-and-garden challenges, reflecting the adaptability and resilience within each pet. Amidst the prize-winning stories, the bittersweet reality of abandoned pets still prevails, underscoring the need for continued pet welfare and advocacy.
