[lorna]

I love my dog, she means the world to me. I try as much as I physically can to walk her, and socialize her. I have taken her to pet friendly places, including leese free parks, banks, building supply, and my local shelter which has a cheap second hand store. Well today I was greeted at the door of this pet shelter and told I was not allowed to bring my dog in. I said to the lady I have never seen before, that I have always. Long story short, they changed the rules. I said it should be posted. She said I should know Im not allowed, well it went like that and i was in tears. I asked for managment. They tried to tell me they had no disease there, and that I could be bringing it in on my dog. I don't believe that one, I think they have outbreaks and hide them desperately. I know there is ringworm and ticks cause its been reported in the news. I don't want to expose my dog, but I do want to socialize her with other people and such. I feel its about equal to a dog park, cause there she could be bit on top of things. So I ramble here, give me your input on what you think, Im settled with it. I have just let it go .....you all

[Naturefreak]

Lorna , I think it's great to socialize your dog . It is very important for her behavior around people and other dogs. How old is your dog?
It's good to start them as soon as possible. Just keep taking her for walks around your area like you have been . Do you have any friends that have dogs? Good luck , I'm sure everything will work out.

[lorna]

Babysteps,
Thank you so much for your kind words My dog means the world to me, she is 5 years old almost and I got her just about a year ago. She wasn't socialized all that much prior to me, so its important for her to get proper interaction with people and fellow dogs. I have a few friends with dogs, so I guess thats a good approach or going to pet stores where she tortures the rabbits LOL
Hope you are having a nice weekend, Lorna

[lynn P.]

I'm sorry you're upset and weren't allowed in the shelter. In a way I can understand why they're doing this - I imagine some of these dogs and cats are rescue animals and many probably don't have their current shots. Some might also be sick and could make your dog sick. Since this is their policy, they wouldn't allow anyone else as well.

You should stick with walking your dog, friend with dog visits and dog parks. Be careful though - I've had a few bad experiences with aggressive dogs trying to bite Bella. Have you considered dog training classes - we went through the whole course at Pet Smart, where we attended with about 8 other owners and dogs. It was a great socializing experience.

[lorna]

I understand it too, and I have sorta calmed down from it. I'm disabled and it was an easy store to walk through and buy reasonable things at. I am a little scared of dogparks cause of my whole mobility issues and not being able to help my dog if she needed it. So I think I will keep to roaming the streets, good for my dog and myself.