WHAT IS G2Z ?
- Getting 2 Zero (G2Z) is a strategy for euthanasing less dogs and adopting more dogs.
- No one wants to see dogs ‘put to sleep’.
- Dogs are deserving of our utmost efforts to preserve and enhance their lives.
- Fewer dogs being euthanased is something we all want and it’s something we can achieve together.
- With your help, we can achieve zero euthanasia of at least 90% of incoming dogs.
- Key features of G2Z are an effective foster care program, access to affordable vet services with de-sexing being the priority, rehabilitation and training programs to increase dogs’ chances of adoption and community education and support.
- The G2Z model has been provided by Animal Welfare League Queensland, proudly supported by the Elsie Cameron Foundation.
WHY ARE SOME DOGS EUTHANASED ?
For the period Jan 1st to June 30th 2010
Aggression issues…123 dogs were euthanased because of aggression related issues. There are many types of aggression – fear aggression, food guarding, barrier or lead aggression to name a few. Some forms of aggression like severe and on-going aggression towards people or other animals are untreatable. Other forms of aggression are treatable with time, effort, understanding and positive training. For example, food guarding, fear aggression or site-specific dog to dog aggression can be reduced, managed or eliminated altogether with the help of patient and knowledgeable people. We do not want to euthanase dogs who have treatable behaviour problems but neither do we want to pass those problems on.
How Can I Help? You can help by becoming a foster carer. Your time and guidance can help these dogs overcome their issues and go on to find a happy ‘forever home’. Dog trainers and behaviourists can assist by working with Dogs’ Homes staff and volunteers to help overcome problem behaviours in dogs.
Health issues …92 dogs were euthanased because of a health condition. Some health conditions are just not treatable in the long term — like cancer, kidney failure or a severe injury sustained in a road accident. Many health conditions are treatable (or manageable) if veterinary and recovery services can be provided. For example, there are some conditions which require extra treatment or longer than normal post-operative care. We don’t want to euthanase dogs out of economic necessity in those cases.
How Can I Help? You can help by becoming a foster carer. By undertaking this valuable role, you provide dogs with the time they need to recover from surgery or other treatment. Or you can assist by helping to fund veterinary treatment for dogs with treatable health issues by donating to The Healing Hearts Fund.
Stress-related issues – 49 dogs were euthanased because of stress-related issues. Anxiety at being confined – even though volunteer dog-walkers take dogs out for daily walks, some dogs need much more. Some dogs get stressed at being confined in kennels and that’s just not fair on them. In autumn and winter each year, the number of dogs entering the Dogs’ Homes increases by around 20 per cent and less people adopt a dog over winter. This aggravates the problem of confinement stress.
How Can I Help? You can help by becoming a foster carer – your home environment will help ease confinement stress OR if you’re thinking of getting a dog, adopt from the Dogs’ Homes.
Jumping and escaping issues – 42 dogs were euthanased because they can jump over six foot fences. People do not choose to adopt a dog who will escape their yard.
Breed issues – 55 dogs were euthanased due to their Pit Bull breeding
Mandated by councils– on occasions, the euthanasia of dangerous dogs is required by law
I can’t be a foster carer – are there other ways I can help? Yes, all dog owners can assist by having their own dogs de-sexed and micro-chipped. De-sexing saves lives because de-sexed dogs cannot add to the surplus unwanted dog situation. And micro-chipped dogs don’t end up on adoption row.
If you are thinking about getting a dog, help by adopting (not buying) a puppy or adult dog. There are lots of healthy, happy pure bred and mixed breed dogs waiting at the Dogs’ Homes. Our aim is to see at least 1,500 dogs adopted into caring homes during our 60th anniversary year. We hope people will support G2Z by giving a good home to a Dogs’ Home dog.
Statistics for July 2010
Total dogs euthanased - 88
The breakdown:
Aggression issues – 30
Health issues — 27
Stress related issues – 8
Jumping and escaping issues – 10
Breed issues – 11
Mandated by council — 2
