Rescuers Were Completely Heartbroken When They Found A Dog Family Hiding In An Abanonded House

We all know those situations in which there is nothing left for the heart but to break. One of the most heartbreaking sights is when you see a mother and her babies in an abandoned, cold place without the most basic necessities. 

Of course, here, I am talking about the canine family that was found in an abandoned house, living in impossible conditions. It is really hard to see a mother who would do anything for her children not being able to ensure them a happy puppyhood. 

Luckily, there are still people with great hearts who are always ready to help those who need it the most, just like was the case in today’s story. 

Heartbreaking Rescue

When the rescuers from Stray Rescue of St.Louis, located in St. Louis, Missouri, got a call from a woman about a canine family in an abandoned house, they didn’t wait a minute but immediately rushed to that place. 

On those days, the weather was very cold, and one of the rescue employees, Donna, knew that they had to act quickly if they wanted to save the poor dogs. That’s why she and her rescue team took responsibility and entered the abandoned house to save them.

“As we started up the steps, I could hear the puppies whimpering,” Donna told The Dodo. 

As soon as they came to the second floor of the house, their hearts broke when they saw a poor Pit Bull mom with her puppies, “ whimpering and crawling on Mom and huddling up with her.”

However, they were able to quickly pull themselves together from this heartwrenching sight and go into action. They managed to put the leash around the mother’s neck and bring her to their Jeep. 

It wasn’t an easy task as the mother dog was crying for her babies, but as soon as they brought them to her, she was able to calm down. When she realized that these people meant no harm and that she was finally in a warm place with her puppies, the smile returned to her face. 

“They were doing much better in the warm Jeep than they were up in that cold, cold abandoned house,” Donna happily concluded.  

However, the best was yet to come for this sweet canine family. 

Tears Of Joy

When the puppies and their mother finally came to the rescue premises in St. Louis, Missouri, they were welcomed like heroes by the shelter employees. These people provided them with everything they needed – food, water, a warm bed, and most importantly, a lot of love and kisses. 

“We got them to where they were settled on a blanket and they had food,” Donna said. “They felt warm enough that they didn’t have to be all pilled onto Mom and underneath her legs to keep warm.”

Although they lacked nothing, the puppies didn’t stay there for long because the very next day, they were in the foster home. In just one day, the life of this canine family changed completely. 

In her interview for The Dodo, Donna couldn’t hide her tears, stating no puppy deserves to start life like that. However, those tears soon transformed into tears of joy when she realized that they were finally where they deserved to be. 

“It’s just – it’s heartbreaking to see them and yet the best feeling ever to get them out of there,” Donna happily concluded at the end.  

Ever wonder why your furry best friend showers you with slobbery kisses? It’s not just a sign of affection; there’s more to it than meets the eye. Dogs have a unique way of communicating with us, and licking is one of their primary methods. It’s their way of bonding, showing submission, and even tasting different scents on your skin. So, the next time your pup gives you a lick, remember, it’s their special way of saying, “I care about you.”

While it may seem like a simple gesture, a dog’s lick holds a world of meaning. From expressing their emotions to seeking attention, each lick has a story to tell. Understanding why dogs lick you can deepen your bond with your canine companion and give you insight into their world. So, let’s unravel the mystery behind this endearing behavior and discover the true meaning behind those wet, sloppy kisses.

Reasons Why Dogs Lick You

1. Display Affection

Dogs lick you to show their love and affection. It’s their way of bonding with you and expressing their adoration. Each lick is a gentle reminder of their fondness for you.

2. Seek Attention

When your dog licks you, it may be seeking your attention. They crave interaction with you and licking is a way to get noticed. Responding positively to their licks reinforces this behavior.

3. Communicate Stress or Anxiety

Licking can be a way for dogs to communicate their stress or anxiety. It helps them calm down in overwhelming situations. Understanding and addressing the source of their stress can help reduce this behavior.

4. Taste and Exploration

Dogs explore the world through their senses, including taste. Licking is a natural way for them to gather information about their surroundings. Your skin may have different tastes and scents that intrigue them.

5. Submission

Licking can also be a sign of submission. Dogs lick to show respect and deference to their pack leader, which in this case, is you. It’s a way for them to acknowledge your position in their social hierarchy.

6. Health Reasons

In some cases, excessive licking can indicate underlying health issues like allergies or skin irritation. If you notice your dog licking obsessively or causing skin problems, consult with a veterinarian to address any potential health concerns.

7. Habitual Behavior

For some dogs, licking becomes a habit or a self-soothing mechanism. They may lick as a form of comfort or relaxation. Providing alternative ways for them to soothe themselves can help curb this behavior if it becomes excessive.

When Dogs Lick Excessively

If your furry companion is licking you more than usual, it’s essential to pay attention to this behavior. Excessive licking in dogs can signify underlying issues that need to be addressed promptly. Here are some reasons why dogs may lick excessively:

1. Medical Conditions: Excessive licking could be a sign of medical problems such as allergies, skin irritation, pain, or gastrointestinal issues. If your dog is licking a specific area persistently, it’s best to consult with a vet to rule out any health concerns.
2. Anxiety or Stress: Dogs may resort to excessive licking as a coping mechanism for anxiety or stress. Changes in their environment, routine, or loud noises can trigger this behavior. Providing a safe and comfortable space for your dog or using calming techniques may help reduce their stress levels.
3. Boredom or Understimulation: Dogs require mental and physical stimulation to stay content. If they are not engaged enough, they may lick excessively out of boredom. Ensure your dog receives regular exercise, playtime, and attention to prevent this behavior.
4. Compulsive Behavior: Some dogs develop compulsive behaviors, including excessive licking, as a result of genetics, past experiences, or lack of proper training. Consulting with a professional trainer or behaviorist can help address and manage these issues effectively.
5. Nutritional Deficiencies: Inadequate nutrition can lead to skin problems and excessive licking in dogs. Ensure your dog is on a balanced diet with essential nutrients to support their overall health and well-being.

Remember, consistent monitoring of your dog’s behavior and seeking guidance from a vet or a professional trainer can help determine the root cause of excessive licking and provide the necessary support and care for your beloved companion.

How to Manage Excessive Licking

Monitor Behavior:

• Observe Cues: Watch for triggers that lead to excessive licking, such as boredom, stress, or specific situations.
• Note Patterns: Keep track of when the licking occurs—after meals, during playtime, or when left alone—to identify potential causes.

Address Underlying Issues:

• Consult a Vet: Rule out any medical conditions like allergies, skin irritations, or pain that could be causing the excessive licking.
• Professional Guidance: Seek advice from a trainer or behaviorist to address compulsive behaviors or anxiety in your dog.

Provide Mental and Physical Stimulation:

• Exercise: Ensure your dog gets enough physical activity to prevent boredom and excess energy that can lead to increased licking.
• Mental Challenges: Engage your dog with puzzle toys, interactive games, or training sessions to stimulate their mind.

Establish Boundaries:

• Redirect Attention: When you notice excessive licking, redirect your dog’s focus to a toy, treat, or a different activity.
• Set Limits: Teach your dog commands like “enough” or “stop” to communicate when licking is unwanted.

Maintain Consistency:

• Routine: Stick to a regular schedule for feeding, exercise, and playtime to provide structure and reduce stress that may trigger excessive licking.
• Positive Reinforcement: Reward desired behaviors and ignore or redirect unwanted licking to reinforce appropriate conduct.

Create a Safe Environment:

• Remove Stressors: Identify and eliminate sources of stress in your dog’s environment, such as loud noises, unfamiliar guests, or other pets.
• Comfort: Provide a safe space with your dog’s bed, toys, and familiar items to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.

• **By monitoring your dog’s behavior, addressing any underlying issues, providing stimulation and boundaries, maintaining consistency, and creating a safe environment, you can effectively manage excessive licking. Consulting with a vet or professional will help determine the best approach to ensure your furry companion’s well-being.

Conclusion

That’s the lowdown on why your furry friend can’t resist giving you those slobbery kisses. Remember, understanding the reasons behind your dog’s licking behavior is key to fostering a healthy and happy relationship. By being aware of the signs and taking proactive steps, you can ensure your pup’s well-being and strengthen the bond you share. So, next time your dog goes in for a lick, you’ll know it’s their way of showing love, seeking attention, or maybe just feeling a bit stressed. Stay tuned to your pup’s cues, implement the strategies discussed, and watch your bond grow stronger every day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do dogs lick their owners?

Dogs lick their owners to display affection, seek attention, or communicate stress.

What can excessive licking indicate?

Excessive licking can indicate health issues or behavioral problems.

How can I manage my dog’s excessive licking?

Monitor behavior, address underlying issues with a vet or professional, provide mental and physical stimulation, establish boundaries, maintain consistency, and create a safe environment.

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