“Ahem,” I hear from the living room as I read the previous sentences aloud.
OK, maybe one more – when Ed, my husband of 37 years, needs advice on anything or everything.
“Sounds about right,” I hear from the living room.
Anyway, here goes …
Today is National Black Dog Day.
In 2004, Tamara Delaney started “Black Pearl Dogs,” a website designed to expose and attempt to end the phenomenon of “Black Dog Syndrome.”
This is a phenomenon where potential pet adopters consistently choose light-colored dogs over black dogs.
In 2011, Colleen Paige furthered the cause by launching National Black Dog Day.
Black dogs are less adopted from rescue shelters for a variety of reasons.
First, there’s the myth that these dogs are more dangerous and aggressive than light-colored dogs. Also, black dogs’ facial features don’t always show in photographs, making it hard for potential pet parents to see them. Finally, for some, black fur on carpets and furniture is a non-starter.
Fair warning – I’ve just stepped up on my soap box.
The last concern for potential pet owners is the easiest to fix. Don’t like black hair everywhere? Get a good vacuum.
And a mound of research exits to ease the other fears. To date, there’s been nothing to show that black dogs are any more dangerous or aggressive than any other color dog or, for that matter, black cats versus other colored cats.
A dog should be chosen for its personality and potential compatibility with the adoptive family.
Other factors families should take into consideration when choosing a dog include lifestyle, living space and how much time is available to devote. The more active the family, the more active a dog it probably needs,
Personality is so important. We had one requirement when we started looking for a new family dog after our beloved mixed-breed, Lucy, passed. The new dog would like to be cuddled.
When we met Teddy, our black Lab, he cuddled up next to Ed and then rolled over for a belly rub. We were sold.
Bottom line: Follow the advice of the rescue organization. Most have vetted the dogs under their care and can tell you what issues you’ll need to address. With proper training, most dogs will adjust well to an individual family dynamic.
So today is a day to remind us that black dogs can be amazing pets. It’s important for potential pet parents to look beyond a dog’s color and focus on personality and family needs.
For my family, a dog’s color was never an issue, but shedding was. Labs are notorious for shedding, but Teddy’s black coat was a blessing in disguise. It’s much easier to see his black hair to vacuum than Lucy’s light red hair ever was.
That’s my soap box speech, although I’m still in the mood to share a few more of my pearls of wisdom.
I wonder if Jordan and Ed are still around.
Karin Spicer, a magazine writer, has been entertaining families for more than 20 years. She lives in Bellbrook with her family and two furry animals all who provide inspiration for her work. She can be reached at spicerkarin@gmail.com.
3 THINGS TO LOVE ABOUT BLACK DOGS
1. Always ready to go – hides dirt well
2. Basic black looks good in everything
3. Matches your tux or gown.
SOURCE: Adapted from Sassafras Lowrey at dogster.com
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