Whilst we do not condone keeping dogs outdoors 24/7 the sad fact is that some dogs live their lives this way. By placing doghouses with these dogs we are providing them with a little comfort in terms of shelter. Dog owners are required to meet certain standards of adequate shelter for dogs, as set out in local ordinances and enforced by animal control or the sheriff's department. The responsibility for providing adequate shelter rests with the dog owner, but when an owner is financially unable to meet that obligation "Homes to HOWL for" will provide a doghouse whenever possible.
We are based in Cobb County, Georgia, but have placed doghouses in Barrow, Bartow, Cherokee, Cobb, Dekalb, Forsyth and Fulton counties. To date we have been able to place nearly 100 doghouses. Doghouses are donated to us by individuals who have a used doghouse they no longer need; but sometimes, in order to meet demand, we need to purchase new or used doghouses from sources such as classified ads or pet stores. We have been fortunate to receive assistance from some generous individuals and businesses who have helped us by donating doghouses, dog supplies, funds, time, or services to assist this program.
When placing a doghouse we try to give away a few extras, such as dog food, dog toys, treats & chews, food bowls and water containers. Hay, straw, or wood shavings make for good bedding inside a doghouse and we try to fill up the doghouse to keep it snug. We like to replace tight collars and heavy chains with harnesses and lightweight but strong cable tie-outs; we wish dogs were not tied up, but only a few counties or cities currently have anti-chaining ordinances. We always encourage owners to un-chain their dogs and to bring them indoors as family pets, not only to get them out of the bad weather, but also to receive love and attention and be part of the family pack.
We actively encourage dog owners to spay or neuter their dogs and we try to provide owners with information about low cost or free spay & neuter services, along with other pet health services, available in their local area.
PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD about "Homes to HOWL for" as the more people who know about us the more dogs we will be able to help.
Our name: We are both "Home for the HOWLidays" and "Homes to HOWL for". The first name is that of the Pasado's Safe Haven holiday time doghouse program. The second name came about when we decided to continue the doghouse project year round. We have been involved in the doghouse giveaway program since the fall/winter of 2006. |
