Thoughts From a Rescuer - Transporting

What is transporting?  It's moving dogs from one place to another for a variety of reasons.  Sometimes a new location helps a dog get adopted.  Sometimes the dog is in danger of being euthanized.  And there are many other reasons as well.


The trend seems to be transporting dogs from other states, even other countries, into the northern states.  Iowa rescues have been involved as well.  I commend those who are truly helping those animals, without regard to size, age or breed, and getting them to safety.  


However, there have been reports the some northern rescues are trying to meet the "demand" for certain dogs, particularly puppies.  That was rather shocking to me.  As a rescue I did not know we paid attention to "supply and demand".  I have always seen that as a retail thing.  Rescues are nonprofit organizations.


Yet it is said that rescues will drive (or fly) to the southern states and pick the most "highly adoptable" dogs and transport them back to their northern rescues.  What happens to the other dogs?  What happens to the dogs in the northern states?


It is reported that the Northern states have done very well with getting their dogs spayed or neutered.  As a result there are not nearly as many puppies being born in the northern states.  The southern states, however, are not as proactive with spaying and neutering.  Thus, there are many puppies still being born and the shelters are still very crowded.


These puppies do need a place to go and I understand that.  However, the number of puppies will continue to be in need if nothing is done about the spaying and neutering in the southern states.  If rescues from the northern states are profitting from these highly adoptable dogs, then they should use some of that money to help fund spay and neuter programs down south so the need will not be so great.  If it can be done in the north, it can be done in the south too.  It is rescue's responsiblity to encourage and educate people about spaying and neutering.


Therein lies the problem....if they puppy "supply" dries up, where will puppies come from?  Where will rescues get highly adoptable dogs or will they be forced to take in the dogs that are in dire need?  The older dogs, the fearful dogs, the sick dogs?


I've always believed that a rescue exists to serve the DOGS, not the people and therefore, not the supply and demand.


I would love to hear your comments on this subject.....


                                                                  Denise