The Spaniel Trust deals with dogs who are "difficult", we do not as a rule re-home dogs, we rehab the difficult dogs. Although normally owners contact us, occasionally we are contacted by another rescue or by a vet about a cocker in to be PTS; usually behavioural issues are the reasons cited. Many are either bored, under exercised working cockers or sometimes show cockers, they need exercise, behaviour modification and a new start. The vet rarely thinks the behaviour so severe that the dog deserves this fate, that's why they call us.
It causes me so much grief if I have to refuse because either I don't have space myself or a suitable foster space available, then I lie awake at night wishing I could have helped, knowing what the outcome was for the dog concerned.
The Spaniel Trust need people (UK wide); experienced with the breed or just dogs in general (preferably with experience of dogs with behavioural issues) perhaps trained or part trained behaviourists or trainers, but all of whom feel they would occasionally like to help a dog rehabilitate using non confrontational methods so they can be successfully re-homed and whom we can call on if a vet in your area calls us.
I have never been bitten by any of the rehab dogs I have brought into my home with me and my pack, although I have been challenged on many, many occasions and there have been a few "near misses".
All bar one have been successfully re-homed (that "one" is still with me!
)
It is not a route for everyone to take, certainly not the inexperienced, faint hearted or those that like an easy life, but for those who have successfully handled challenging behaviours and find it satisfying to help re-home a dog I'd like to say "We need you".
If you feel this is something that you would like to do, and have the experience to do successfully, please contact me by pm, email or phone, and thank you.
