Baark! On.. I am afraid.

Dear Baark!

I am so pleased you are doing such great work for our Bahamian animals I often leave my spare change in your donations boxes wherever I see them. But I have a confession, I am really afraid of the dogs out there. I was raised in a neighborhood where every yard had two or three dogs that really seem scary. Do all those really cute puppies you help grow into mean dogs like the ones on my street? Also, is there a way for me to learn to interact with the animals so I am not afraid anymore?

Sincerely, “Want to learn”

Dear “Want to learn”.

First of all, thank you for donating your change to Baark! we truly appreciate all we receive, every little bit helps.

Secondly, in response to your fear, you are not alone. Many Bahamians confide in us that they are afraid of dogs as well.

We realize a lot of Bahamians mistreat their dogs thinking that it will help make their dogs meaner and more effective at guarding their homes. Sadly, this creates neighborhoods of mean sounding dogs which continue the myth that dogs should be feared.  Mistreating a dog only makes a sad, angry dog that can even turn on his owner. Dogs that are well treated make the best guard dogs, they guard out of loyalty for their owners.

We think that what is most likely the truth is that you are afraid of mistreated dogs that while sounding angry are actually afraid themselves. You have yet to encounter a dog that is loved and affectionate with his owners. Seek out a friend who has a dog that is treated well; ask if you can learn to interact with it slowly. Soon your perception that all dogs are to be feared will disappear

If you would like a chance to learn how to be around dogs with experienced dog handlers please be sure to come to our Baark! Dog walk every Sunday at 3:30pm at the Bahamas Humane Society. Just make yourself known and we would love to help!

Thanks for asking!

Please spay and neuter your animals, this simple procedure saves lives and decreases the suffering of unwanted animals.

This column is proudly brought to you by BAARK! the Bahamas Alliance for Animal Rights and Kindness.

For more information contact us at info@baarkbahamas.org, (558-3039) or visit our website www.baarkbahamas.com