When Borya could no longer survive alone, he walked to the people he thought might help him. He found a group of frontline Ukrainian soldiers.

They took one look at him and knew he was in serious trouble. This pit bull, whom they named Borya, was starving, his body wasted down to just sixteen kilograms. One of his ears and one of his eyes were severely infected. The damage was so advanced that the tissue was, quite literally, rotting. The soldiers, already living in the hardest of conditions, did the one thing they could. They reached out for help.

That call reached Irina, part of the ROLDA Rescue Team network, and on 19 March, the long fight to save Borya’s life began.

He was too weak and too sick for any quick solution. The first priority was simply to keep him alive, to stabilise him and bring his raging infection under control. Only once he was strong enough could he face the first of his surgeries.

In that first operation, the surgeons removed the dead tissue and damaged cartilage that the infection had destroyed. They fought to save his eye, but the damage had gone too far. Borya has permanently lost sight in that eye. It looks far better now than it did, but the vision cannot come back.

The ear was worse. Despite everything, the infection kept advancing, the tissue continuing to break down. In the end, the team faced a hard decision, and they made the one that would save his life. The ear was fully amputated, along with the ear canal.

None of this has been quick, and none of it has been easy. Borya’s treatment is still ongoing. He is still healing, and every day he keeps fighting.

But think about where he began. A starving, rotting, half-blind dog, abandoned to his fate, who somehow found the strength and the trust to walk up to a group of human beings and ask for help. That trust was not misplaced. The soldiers answered. ROLDA answered. And because of supporters like you, Borya is not facing his recovery alone.

He has lost an eye and an ear. But he has kept the one thing that saved him in the first place: his will to live, and his belief that people would not let him down.

Thank you for being one of the people who proved him right.

Congratulations! You have chosen to become a parent to a rescue dog and give a loving home to an animal that once had to fend for itself. Your good deed is much appreciated at ROLDA, where all our residents would make wonderful and loving companions.

And do you want to know who is even more excited about getting to its new home? Your newly adopted dog. Yet despite your friend being overjoyed, you might see signs of stress and a pullback from feeling overwhelmed. Not to mention that it is only when the body relaxes that the mind processes all it has been through.

So, it’s best to give your new companion time to settle in and to create a stress-free environment. Even if your dog doesn’t seem stressed at first, let us guide you through a checklist that will guarantee a happy ending for all of you. We will try to answer some questions that might help you assess your situation and determine how best to handle it.

Do all rescue dogs have trauma?

No. Some of them are lucky enough to have lived in areas with no other dogs competing for the scarce resources. There are even those fortunate enough to get rescued quickly after birth or after having just been abandoned, and those who were looked after by people who, although they could not take them in, still ensured their survival.

Could you compare them with dogs that have always been pets, have had a home, and have had a loving family? Probably not, but we were saying that some of our dogs could have very little to recover from, which would make their rehabilitation process quicker.

However, most of the dogs that end up in a shelter, the ones people mobilize to help, are usually in a distressing situation caused by things like malnourishment, illness, or severe trauma. These take a while to get over, but are not impossible to overcome.

Can you still adopt such a dog?

Absolutely. First, we start the rehabilitation process in the shelter; otherwise, the dog would not allow us to treat him. After the initial shock wears off and the dog becomes more accustomed to us, we introduce him to the general public and gradually begin the socialization process.

It’s important to recognize that adopting out an unadoptable dog is not in our best interest. If the owner cannot manage the responsibility, the dog may be returned or abandoned, despite our efforts to screen adopters thoroughly. This results in additional trauma for the animal and complicates his chances of finding a permanent home.

Therefore, we make our own assessment of how much a dog might need before full rehabilitation. In most cases, it’s just the comfort and stability of a home and the love of its own owners. In other cases, it might take some work, but nothing too challenging, according to our estimation.

What are the signs of trauma, and how much rehabilitation is needed?

There can be many signs of trauma in shelter dogs, and it all depends on what that animal has been through. This is also the key to fixing them.

Unfortunately, we rarely know precisely what happened to dogs before we rescue them. We can tell some things from the situation we found them in, but not about things in their past and underlying trauma. When we do, we communicate them to owners so they can keep an eye out for specific situations.

Let’s take, for example, a dog whose trauma stems from having been caught by the staff of a public shelter, and that has barely made it out alive. We make a point of rescuing dogs from public shelters before they get too ill or too injured.

These places are overcrowded with dogs placed inside without regard for their size, aggression, or health. They are packed together with aggressive and sick dogs, forced to compete for resources—making it worse than being on the streets.

This type of trauma is specific and may arise in dogs that need to share their new homes with existing pets. It could make them territorial, aggressive in guarding resources, possessive of their owners, etc. If the trauma is more surface-level, it will manifest early on. If it’s deep and rooted, it might take some time, and you will have difficulty figuring out where it comes from.

Observe your dog’s reaction carefully and remember that no dog acts without a reason. Every behavior is motivated by past experiences, so it’s important to demonstrate that the current situation is safe.

What causes trauma to surface?

Stress.

Surface-level trauma, the kind that causes immediate problems, is usually dealt with by us in the shelter.

More profound trauma can lie dormant until triggered. And stress is the generic trigger for all.

How to create a stress-free environment for a rescue dog?

As mentioned before, in many cases, the final step toward permanent rehabilitation is best done in the forever home, where the dog finally feels at peace and ready to let go of the mechanisms it developed to keep it safe in dangerous environments. Simply being in his home can soothe frayed nerves and let the healing begin.

Create a safe and quiet space for your dog. Try to keep it separate from your other pets’ spaces in the home, even if they might seem friendly. It’s best, especially in the beginning, for each to have their own separate space to retreat to.

Deal with everyday stressors. These could be loud or sharp noises, crowded spaces, rowdy visitors, clutter, unpredictable situations (things that topple over, for example), and regular household noises. No matter how harmless you might perceive them, a stressed dog might act out on account of such things. A beeping boiler, constantly having people over (especially people your dog has never seen before), a house filled with too much stuff, too much to sniff and identify in the accommodation period— all these scenarios can overwhelm your furry friend.

Dog-proof your home. Clean the house, but don’t use toxic products. With some of them, you can even smell the residue afterwards. But that smell is several times more potent to a dog, and it will drive him crazy.

Remove items that are within your dog’s reach, and make sure he cannot bump into things and break them. Tie up loose cords, remove cables and extension cords, remove toxic plants, and make sure your dog has a clear path to walk around the house and to reach all the rooms it is allowed in easily.

Minimize noise and stimulation. Bring your new dog into a quiet house and slowly reintroduce noise into your routine. We are not saying you have to keep your house quiet forever—just for your dog’s first few days, while all his senses are overwhelmed. This also goes for lights and smells. If you have air fresheners, remove them in the beginning and bring them back out one at a time once your dog has settled in. But it would be best to throw those out entirely because they are toxic.

Safe socialization at your dog’s pace. You might have a lot of family and friends, some of whom have their own pets that would love to play with your new dog. But bringing all this down on your dog all at once can be too much. Let your dog first get accustomed to you and your family, the house, the smell, and the sounds. Then gradually introduce the calmer friends and family.

Once your dog seems comfortable enough with more people around the house, create slightly more crowded settings. But make sure to keep an eye on his reactions every step of the way. If he starts shying away, getting anxious, pacing, barking, or becoming agitated, take him back to his safe, quiet place and hold off on inviting too many people over.

A dog will have stress-induced triggers for an extended period if he lives in a stressful environment. For his nervous system to catch up to the fact that the danger is gone and that he is now safe, he needs to really relax. The good news is that once this happens, you can gradually pick up the pace and enjoy a noisy, fun-filled life with your companion. Just make sure you give your furry friend enough time to adapt.

Best Toys for Mental Stimulation in Dogs of All Ages

Ever think about what dogs do during your work hours? Besides napping and watching every passerby at your door.

The sad answer is that they don’t do much. They sigh and lie around the house. Sometimes they nap. But most of the time, they are bored.

And do you know what happens when they get bored and understimulated with no other outlet for their energy? They get creative. And they get creative with things you wouldn’t want them to.

Therefore, in the vast majority of cases, what people tend to catalogue as bad dog behavior can be traced back to a lack of activity and brain stimulation. And this is why getting toys for them to play with when they are alone is so important.

Dogs of all ages benefit from it

There is no age limit for playing with toys for mental stimulation. Puppies are not too young to know how to do it, and senior dogs are not too old to play. Moreover, when done extensively, you can see the benefits for yourself.

Puppies are still learning how the world around them works and how they fit into your family dynamic. Toys designed for mental stimulation can teach them to focus and handle frustration. There is also the element of reward when they manage to do something for themselves. Also, since it did not come from you or you were not the one deciding whether it deserved a treat, your dog has the chance to learn to be independent and resilient.

Problem-solving skills and confidence, along with strong encouragement to explore in a safe environment, are bonuses, and keeping a puppy occupied throughout the day is helpful for any dog owner.

Adult dogs may already know the house routine and how they fit into your daily schedule. Yet even the most thoroughly exercised dog will need mental stimulation in addition to physical exercise. These toys will keep them from getting bored, destructive, or anxious when you are away.

The more the toy allows your dog to explore some of its instincts, such as foraging, the more it will reduce stress and improve overall behavior.

Senior dogs need all the mental stimulation they can get, especially those who can no longer sustain a regular exercise program. This might be their only activity apart from cuddles.

Although their bones might become brittle and their muscles weary, it’s essential to keep their minds sharp and engaged. It will provide significant compensation and help them cope better with the gradual loss of their senses.

Puzzle toys, scent-based games, and low-impact challenges will help sustain mobility to a functional degree and will give them a sense of purpose.

Types of toys best suited to all age groups

Puppies will benefit most from teething-friendly chews with a special problem-solving twist, such as those that require them to work through one part to get to another.

It is important to remember that puppy teeth are small but sharper than adult teeth. Getting toys made from materials that are too soft can be dangerous because puppies could swallow the breakaway parts.

Also, when choosing a puppy toy, opt for the one best suited to your dog’s size. Puppies may be all small, but there are different types of small. Getting a smaller dog a toy for a larger breed pup might create frustration and end up being a waste of money. Opt for things they can actually grab with their little mouths.

Just like with small children, don’t pick anything with movable small parts that could get ingested. Your puppy might be too young to know how to spit it out.

Adult dogs might be the ones getting all the best toys. They can benefit from all sorts of mental stimulation. Get the tough chew toys because their teeth are duller now, and chewing will be a big part of their day. Also, you can be two steps ahead and pick out chew toys of various textures, so your dog never gets curious about chewing other things in the house.

Puzzle toys can be more challenging, even the easy kind. But unless your dog has experience in puppyhood with them, don’t start off with the most difficult of all, because you could build frustration instead of competence. Start with easy puzzles so that your dog gets the idea and learns that there is a treat at the end when everything aligns and fits perfectly. Then work your way up to more challenging ones.

Treat dispensers for extended engagement release food gradually as your dog plays, encouraging him to focus and keep playing. The great thing about these types of toys is that they can occupy a large portion of their time when you are not at home.

Activity-based toys, or toys that react, are the ones that respond and move around, best mimicking playtime with the owner. While senior dogs might not be nimble enough for them, puppies might benefit more from human interaction. Adult dogs can sometimes use these gadgets to supplement playtime.

Senior dogs, especially those who have been taught to play alone, can benefit from gentle puzzle toys and snuffle mats, provided the materials are soft, vary in texture, and are overall easy to manipulate.

How to pick the best toys in an oversaturated market

Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, and so do their toys. Since we have already discussed age-based choices, let’s see some other factors that can influence selection.

First, think of your dog’s size. We’ve already discussed this in the puppy section, but it goes for dogs of all ages. Big dog toys may not fit in a small dog’s mouth, and small dog toys might not be challenging enough for bigger dogs. If you are in a pet store, check with the staff and look at the instructions to see the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Secondly, consider chewing strength and play style. Some of those smaller dogs are mighty, and some larger dogs are gentle. You want to buy a toy that really keeps your dog engaged and requires the least amount of trial and error.

Safety tips

We have already covered the risk of smaller dogs swallowing breakaway pieces, and we want to reinforce that.

Secondly, make sure the materials used are non-toxic and durable. There are a lot of items out there, not all of them tested and safe, especially not everything you can buy online. Best check them out in-store before purchase, and keep in mind that whatever you buy, your dog will put his mouth on it.

And lastly, keep them on rotation so that they feel new every now and again. This will help you get the most out of your dog toys.

It’s normal for a dog to have separation anxiety whenever you leave your home, especially in the beginning. If it’s right after you’ve spent time together getting comfortable with one another, and you suddenly go, leaving them home alone, it might not feel right. And you can understand that.

There comes a point when your understanding reaches its limit, and you hope your dog will move on from the issue; otherwise, it becomes hard to imagine your future together. So, it’s important for your dog to learn to be alone, at least during errands and ideally when you’re away for work.

It’s ok to give them time and space, be accommodating, understand, and be available. Still, it’s also advisable that, at some point, you start moving toward a more healed version of your dynamic, one in which your dog is comfortable being by himself and you can comfortably do your own things.

All dogs can get separation anxiety, but it is more common with adopted shelter dogs, mainly because they have probably been abandoned in the past and waited for someone who never came back for them. This type of betrayal can leave deep scars, and it is to be expected that once a dog forms an attachment to another person, he will desperately cling to them and feel distressed when they are not around.

Is this permanent? It could be if you handle things poorly from the very beginning and don’t understand that this is something you both need to work through. Here are some valuable tips for handling things from the start to help grow your dog’s confidence and independence.

Step 1 – Recognizing you are dealing with separation anxiety

You just brought your dog home, and after getting used to one another and giving her lots of attention, you are ready to step back into your routine, which may include time away from home for work, shopping, going to the gym, or eating out.

When you come back home, you find out from your neighbors that your dog has been barking and howling ever since you left, and you go inside to find the place turned upside down, with pee or poop in the corner (despite having made sure you walked your dog before heading out precisely for that reason).

You can have one of these or all of these, but what matters most is that you understand that they were all powered by the same distressing fear that you left and would never return. This is what separation anxiety looks like. The only variation possible between them is the severity with which it manifests. Based on this, you can determine how much action you need to take and when.

A dog that cannot be left alone at all would be problematic for any owner, including those with a large family and many people who help out. Therefore, the separation anxiety needs to be addressed.

Step 2 – Encouraging your dog to enjoy alone time when you’re at home

Pulling away from your dog in a fit of anger over what he has done to your home is not a good idea. Neither is punishment.

If you think about it from your dog’s perspective, your dog probably thought you had left for good, or that he had been abandoned again. Imagine how distressing it would be for your friend to have to go through that again.

Once you’ve calmed down and maybe cleaned the house, you can reassure your dog that you are not going anywhere if you can help it and that he is once again safe in your company. Don’t create an unsafe space for your dog as punishment. You would be hurting him more than you would want to.

Instead, when everyone is friendly and calm, start teaching your dog how to have soothing alone time while you are still in the house. This way, the dog will have the experience of doing something fun you were not involved in and can turn to that activity when you leave the house.

Toys will usually help with that. But don’t just plop them down by your dog’s side and expect him to know what to do with them right away. Shelter dogs, rescued and abandoned dogs, didn’t have anyone to teach them how to play.

Use puzzle feeders, chew toys, snuffle mats, and treat-dispensing toys. You can play with your dog first until he realizes he doesn’t need you to get the final reward. The game should be fun on its own, for the game or for the treat. After that, encourage your dog to play more often while you move away. The first step of this is achieved when he can calmly be in another room, playing with his toys.

It also helps to create a special and cozy space for your dog, one that feels very nice and personal. If you have a blanket or a pillow they prefer, place it there. They probably love it because it smells like you.

When you are home, take time to spend with your dog, time you can comfortably include in your routine and be consistent with. Afterward, you can encourage him to spend time with his toys or in his cozy spot.

Step 3 – Baby steps to being alone

Desensitization training is essential in cases like this, as it helps your dog become comfortable with something he would otherwise find uncomfortable.

With separation anxiety, the process starts with being out of the house for very brief intervals. What matters most is that your dog sees you returning every time. It is not necessarily the being alone part that troubles him, but the part where he is afraid you might never return. Seeing you come back again and again rewires the brain, allowing him to perceive a reality different from what he used to know.

Once your dog learns that you don’t disappear when you leave the house, it’s time to increase the time spent on the other side of the door. Just don’t go from 2 minutes to 2 hours right away. Do it slowly so that the difference is not perceived as a shock. From 5 to 10 minutes, from 10 to 20, and so on.

It might sound like this could take a lot of time, when in fact it is an investment in your dog’s mental rehabilitation and in your own home dynamics. Also, the slower you do it at first and still register progress, the better the overall results.

When to seek specialized help

If you have completed these three steps in the correct order, without rushing through them, without punishment, and without withdrawing affection, and yet your dog’s behavior keeps worsening, maybe it’s time to consult a specialist.

Underneath the separation anxiety, there could be something else, something triggered by the same thing, but something that operates on a different level. There could be other types of trauma. There could be something in your house that scares your dog and causes extreme reactions when left alone.

What to never do when dealing with separation anxiety

Anxiety means a difficulty in coping with a specific situation. In this case, it’s about your dog being separated from you for fear of abandonment or loss.

Under no circumstances should you force your dog to overcome his anxiety by leaving him alone for hours on end, hoping that he will eventually get over it. This will only worsen its condition and give you more to fix in the end.

Once you start the process, take baby steps and only move forward when you notice your dog is ready to move with you. Even if it’s a baby step, you are not achieving anything by forcing results unless there is willingness on your dog’s part. Remember that it will only take too long if you have to keep going back because you rushed through it in the first place.

Experienced dog owners know that caring for a dog can look different in summer than in winter.  And it should come as no surprise, given the fact that each season brings its own opportunities and challenges.

A first-time dog owner might get overwhelmed by the idea of having to do things differently in each season. But rest assured! This is nothing that a proactive attitude and a little bit of preparation cannot fix. Read the article, talk to your vet, and in no time, you will be handing out expert advice to other first-time dog owners, especially on how to provide seasonal care for a pet.

Protection, Prevention, Transition, and Comfort

Don’t worry! Although your routines may vary from season to season, your dog will not become a completely different animal with a new set of needs. You will just need to adapt what you usually do to the changing season.

It is all very intuitive and nothing too challenging to achieve with a bit of foresight and careful planning.

Here is what to prepare for in each season.

Spring – Routine Changes and Prevention Programs

After several months of hibernation, spring challenges all creatures to come out and reconnect with nature. It goes for animals and humans alike, and it goes for you and your dog.

Therefore, after spending so much time indoors in heated rooms, doing minimal exercise, and mostly moving only when necessary, you will want to be more active outdoors.

This could mean longer walks, more time in the park, planning doggy playdates, and spending time in the yard, all of which are wonderful if you prepare in advance.

The Best Time for Parasite Prevention

Once you step out of the comfort and safety of your home, your dog will become exposed. It’s best to start the preventive treatments to keep it safe throughout the warm season. This will cover fleas, ticks, and internal parasites alike.

Although spring and summer are peak seasons for ticks—the most dangerous parasites—using scheduled treatments is a safer way to protect your dog. Relying on the weather (since ticks tend to multiply in tall grass after rain) or avoiding overgrown grassy and damp wooded areas, which are common breeding sites, may not be enough.

Simply knowing that this is something you do every spring will lighten the mental load and be another thing to check off the list.

Watch out for Chemically Treated Areas

Spring is also the time of year when people do a lot of gardening and might use pesticides and fertilizers on their lawns and gardens. City administrators might choose to do so in public parks.

Make sure to watch out for signs and don’t let your dog wander off onto other people’s properties because you don’t know if they have used these chemicals on their lawns or gardens.

Watch for Seasonal Allergies and Toxic Plants.

Dogs could be affected by spring allergies just like people. Watch out for itching, watery eyes, sneezing, and excessive paw licking after your walks.

Some of the spring plants are dangerous to dogs. These include tulips, daffodils, azaleas, hyacinths, rhododendrons, and lilies of the valley. Keep your dog on a leash when walking past gardens with such plants. Also, if you receive a bouquet of spring flowers that contains any of the above-listed flowers, keep it out of the dog’s reach.

Spring Grooming

Spring grooming is different because it requires more frequent brushing to remove the winter coat your dog is shedding. You might want to brush daily, or at least every few days, because matted fur that is not removed can trap moisture near the skin, causing irritation and other skin problems.

Depending on your dog’s fur type, pick the right tools and the frequency. Some breeds may need a de-shedding tool or an undercoat rake, while short-haired dog owners can achieve good results with a rubber grooming mitt.

Make sure to do this before bathtime, because wet hair is more difficult to remove.

Summer – Hydration and Heat Safety

Regardless of whether you and your dog are adventurous, you will still have to go outside in the summer. While the heat is the main element you need to plan around, it can significantly alter your entire routine. And we are not necessarily talking about intense heat waves, but about the whole of summer, given how temperatures have risen worldwide.

Watch Out for Heatstroke.

There is no fixed timeframe for how long a human or a dog needs to be out in the sun or exposed to excessive heat before they get heatstroke. It mainly depends on the body’s reaction and the temperature.

So, if it is incredibly hot, even a few minutes outside in the sun can have adverse effects. The situation worsens if you have a senior dog, one with medical problems, or a puppy.

Moreover, heatstroke can progress quickly, so if you notice symptoms, take the necessary steps to help your dog cool down and get to a veterinarian for a check-up, even if you see your dog is coming around. Watch out for excessive panting, drooling thick and sticky saliva, lethargy, vomiting or diarrhea, disorientation, or bright red or dark gums.

Paw Protection

The scorching pavements are no fun to walk on. If you are wearing flip-flops and notice how hot the pavement is, even though your soles are still protected, imagine what it is like for your dog to walk on it with his paws. Always check the pavement temperature with your hand. If you can keep your hand pressed on it for several seconds without feeling it too hot, your dog can comfortably walk on it.

NEVER Leave Your Dog Unattended in a Locked Car.

There is no circumstance in which this could be safe. Even with a cracked window, the temperature inside a car will be twice as high as it is outside.

Every year, dogs die inside parked cars in summertime. In most cases, it happens in the first 10-20 minutes after their owners walk away. Don’t add to this number!

Autumn – Transitioning Back to the Cold Season

Autumn is not necessarily a challenging season. However, it is a time to make the switch from outdoor to more indoor activities. This means that while you and your dog have grown accustomed to long evening walks, you are now experiencing shorter, colder days. If your walks were early in the morning, these might be hindered as well.

Switching to Less Activity

It’s great to get a lot of exercise in summer, but it is natural that, as autumn rolls in, the body tends to want to rest more. It goes for humans and animals alike. The best thing to do is to let your bodies rest, but also adjust your food intake to match your level of activity. Obesity is problematic for all.

A Nuisance to Clean

Heavy rain and muddy streets mean you need to clean your dog more often after a walk or a sprint outside.

Health Issues for Senior Dogs

Younger dogs and pups might not be much affected by the seasonal change, but senior dogs might feel the dampness and cold in their joints. Mind your dog’s age, and if you notice any difficulty walking, running, or climbing onto the sofa, get them checked by their vet. This is precisely when joint pain is most unbearable, and it would help your furry friend a lot if you could provide the proper care and medication.

Fall Perils Hidden in the Leaves

With all the sidewalks covered in fallen leaves, your dog might step on something that might hurt his paws. Wearing doggy boots could provide protection and help keep warm.

Winter – Cold protection and mental stimulation

The main issue in winter is making sure everybody in your household keeps warm. Everything else is secondary, but it still implies watching out for a few things.

Not All High Temperatures in Winter are Good

Overheating your house is just as bad as not heating it at all. Also, some breeds handle temperatures differently from others. Find common ground with your dog and settle on the best temperature.

Watch Out for De-Icers

Even if your dog seems comfortable walking outside without doggy boots, consider that the cold might not be your only concern in winter. People use salt and other de-icing formulas that are aggressive when in direct contact with the skin.

Indoor Mental Stimulation

Because you can’t play and frolic outside as in the warmer seasons, your dog will need indoor games to keep up its mental stimulation. Even though the cold season is meant for physical rest and hibernation, 3-5 months of inactivity is a long time. Have some activities prepared before boredom sets in.

Holiday Safety

When tables overflow with festive food, you can expect your best friend to come sniffing around. But you need to remember his food restrictions because they have a purpose. Chocolate, grapes, xylitol, fatty foods, gravy, and dips are all bad for dogs.

No matter how much your dog begs, not giving in shows you care because you don’t want to see your best friend get sick.

Also, the winter holidays often mean firecrackers and fireworks. Many dogs are terrified of those. If you live in a neighborhood with lots of street parties and loud noises over the holiday, create a safe space where your dog can hide away from the sounds.

You might need some help in your first years as a dog owner, but after you go through the seasonal changes once or twice, you will notice that you instinctively know what to do. Remember to adapt and to pay attention to your dog’s real needs. These can also change from one year to another. You got this!

On June 24, 2026, the earth trembled in Venezuela. In that terrifying instant, the world changed not only for families but also for thousands of voiceless souls—dogs and cats—who had no way to save themselves from the chaos. The comfort of daily life was replaced by the roar of destruction, leaving pets stranded and bewildered amid the wreckage. The air was thick with dust and fear, and the cries of the most vulnerable mixed with the sirens and shouts that filled Venezuela.

As rescue operations began, the full magnitude of suffering became clear. Many animals were left behind in the panic—some even trapped beneath the rubble, their desperate cries nearly drowned out by the sound of falling stone. Others, torn from the warmth of the families who loved them, now roam the shattered streets. They search for food amid the debris, their coats streaked with dust and their eyes wide with fear, longing for a kind touch or the familiar scent of home. The devastation is not only physical, but deeply emotional—a collective heartbreak etched into every whimper and hesitant step.

At ROLDA, the heartbreak of every abandoned animal is felt deeply. It fuels our determination to act, to bring hope where there is despair. We teamed up with compassionate local heroes like La Manada de Bethoven, whose tireless teams search through unstable ruins and treacherous conditions, risking their own safety to crawl through jagged concrete to find survivors and deliver life-saving food, water, and urgent medical aid. Each rescue is a small miracle, a promise that these forgotten animals are not alone in their darkest hour.

As media headlines fade and the world’s attention shifts, the nightmare endures for these animals. Each day, they wait—sometimes in the shadow of ruins, sometimes in makeshift shelters or the remains of what were once homes. Their hope flickers with every footstep that approaches, every gentle voice that calls out. For them, rescue is not just survival, it is the return of dignity and the rekindling of trust in humanity.

Every single act of generosity—no matter how small—sends a powerful message to these animals: you are not forgotten. It helps rescuers reach one more trembling creature, provide another nourishing meal, or offer a moment of warmth and reassurance in a world turned upside down.

ROLDA Broadens Its Crisis Response

ROLDA’s commitment to crisis response has now extended to another continent: South America. In times of disaster—whether earthquake, flood, or conflict—ROLDA has mobilized swiftly where possible to deliver aid and partner with local organizations to save as many lives as possible.

ROLDA’s work and growing global reach are a testament to the power of compassion and international solidarity. Our network has distributed food, medicine, and shelter, bringing hope to animals and their caretakers when all seems lost. Every crisis is unique, but our mission remains unchanged: to stand with the voiceless, to bring comfort where there is pain, and to remind the world that every life matters.

Tsunami: A Symbol of Hope

After Venezuela’s June 24 earthquakes, a rescue dog named Tsunami quickly became a national hero.

The striking border collie with one blue and one brown eye searched through rubble, helping find survivors and giving hope to a grieving nation. He helped save at least 26 lives in a disaster that claimed nearly 4,500.

Tsunami is one of just a few search-and-rescue dogs in Venezuela. He and his handler Jorge Beens, leader of a Caracas disaster-response team, rushed into action—despite their own home being damaged.

Beens adopted Tsunami in 2017 from abusive conditions and quickly noticed his confidence and playfulness, which are perfect for rescue work. Tsunami has helped save over 350 people in disasters across Venezuela as well as Turkey and Syria after the 2023 earthquakes.

Trained rescue dogs like Tsunami help responders find where to search, showing how animals can play a lifesaving role during large-scale emergencies. Tsunami’s impact went beyond rescue missions—photos and murals of him became symbols of hope during a time of heartbreak. Plus, the international attention on Tsunami and dogs alike has the power to spark greater preparedness, helping Venezuela and other countries strengthen their emergency response for the future.

Sadly, the rescue window for survivors closed in Venezuela, but Beens and Tsunami plan to share their story with hopes of raising awareness and inspiring others.

Working at a dog shelter is probably one of the most rewarding jobs a person could have. Sure, plenty of charities do a lot of good work for lots of people and animals all over the world, but there is something about working at a shelter that has always felt like a bonus for good deeds, and up until recently, we couldn’t quite figure out what that was.

But recently, when filling out the documents for one adoption we all worked on with passion and dedication, we realized what that bonus was: the ripple effect of shelter dog adoptions. In other words, one good deed can set off a chain of events that ultimately leads to more good things for our dogs. And this is not something particular to our shelter, but an effect that keeps other animal shelters operational around the world as well. Let’s get into it.

The Never-Ending Need for Room in Animal Shelters

It’s no surprise that most shelters are overcrowded, as turning away stray animals is heartbreaking. We do what we can because if we don’t act, no one else will.

So, despite the number of dogs we are all equipped to take in, we always do a lot of mental acrobatics and math to stretch the same resources to help more dogs. This happens because, despite endless awareness-raising campaigns and our collective efforts to take dogs off the streets, abandonment remains a significant problem. And it is happening in many countries.

Even in places where dogs are not simply discarded and left to fend for themselves, there is still a strain on shelter resources. Even in areas such as these, where animals are taken to shelters and left responsibly in a protected environment, freeing up resources otherwise used for rescue and immediate medical assistance for trauma or malnourishment, there is still a lot of pressure.

Combine abandonment with the lack of sterilization to sustain a continuous flow of homeless animals, even though the number of dog shelters remains limited, and overpopulation becomes more difficult to address.

Even Small Shelters Help

When a group of people decides to open a dog shelter, even one with very few residents, it means those dogs will be taken off the streets, sterilized, and, hopefully, adopted.

Sadly, most dogs saved tend to be very old and ill, which greatly reduces their likelihood of adoption. As a result, a small shelter with space for seven dogs, where 4 or 5 are considered less desirable for adoption, will only ever have 2 or 3 new spots available for new rescues—assuming it has a no-kill policy. This is contingent upon these 2-3 adoptable dogs successfully finding permanent homes.

Adopting an Animal is the Ultimate Act of Kindness

This is the action that starts the ripple effect. Donations are also vital to our work, as they provide the lifeline and resources we need to do what we do. But adoption is the ultimate game changer for our dogs and for us. Here is why.

A Life-Changing Event for the Chosen Dog

There is no greater joy for any of our residents than having their own families and homes. This is what we wish to achieve for all our rescues. But realistically, some of them will end up in our care permanently.

Some are very old, and most people have trouble envisioning such an adoption. Others have severe medical issues from diseases contracted on the streets or from traumatic injuries. These translate to high medical costs and a level of care and attention few people feel capable of offering.

And although it breaks our hearts, we understand the reasons people have and know the great responsibility that comes with taking on such a dog. So, we are committed to being their forever homes and providing them with the medical care they need until their last day.

This being said, we can only emphasize how important it is to have the rest of our perfectly adoptable residents swept up and taken to their forever homes by loving families. Because no matter how hard we try and how much we do for our rescues, nothing beats the love of a family and the feeling of belonging somewhere.

A Life-Changing Event for the Owners

New-time adopters are in for a treat as they will discover a life full of love, companionship, and overall happiness.

A dog in your life means great responsibility, but it comes with an improved quality of life. You will become more active, know what it’s like to be needed and loved unconditionally, and have the best reason to hurry home after a long day.

Freeing Up a Spot in the Shelter

With one dog in the care of a loving family, the resources devoted to its upkeep and the shelter spot it occupies can be used to care for another dog, one recently rescued from the street or turned in by owners who no longer wish to have the responsibility.

For us, this means having the room, time, and financial resources to rehome another rescued dog.

Every adopted dog means a chance for another. And in the rare cases when adopters are willing to take on a challenging case with everything it entails, such as special care, round-the-clock surveillance, medical bills, and rehabilitation, the amount of resources freed almost doubles.

The Psychological Effect on Shelter Staff

Most of the time, shelter staff operate on pure optimism and sheer willpower. Because it is challenging to know what some of these animals have been through, to see their resilience and capacity for love and devotion, and yet to see them get overlooked for every chance at adoption.

We feel for these residents because we know they will face significant difficulties finding homes. But we are happy to see that we will provide them with the food, shelter, medical care, and love they need for the rest of their lives. And it gives us some peace of mind to know that they will still be taken care of.

Yet, even for this to happen, we need our adoptable dogs—the ones that have no medical issues, are young, and would make perfect companions for a long time—to find their families. And when this happens, we know we will have the resources to care for our permanent residents.

The Community Effect

We’ve mentioned the large number of stray animals and the challenge of finding a place for every one of them. The best-case scenario is for them to be rescued by no-kill shelters, treated, vaccinated, rehabilitated when needed, and then adopted. Each dog is in its own home, and none is alone on the streets. Maybe some are in shelters, but on their way to their forever homes.

But until that happens, we must all do what we can. As far as shelters are concerned, regardless of how many dogs a unit can take in, they quickly fill, and only adoptions can free up space and give other dogs the chance to be saved and made adoptable.

Communities benefit from dog adoptions, even if this results in a ‘one-at-a-time’ rescue process. Every bit of help and involvement matters, as it prevents problems from continuously growing.

Feeding your dog should be easy, given the many options available on the market. Then why does it feel so overwhelming?

If you’re new to this, we know it can feel overwhelming. Just remember that it takes time to discover your dog’s true needs, but with guidance from a trusted veterinarian and a bit of trial and error—since your dog also has a voice in this—you’ll have clear options to consider.

Here is what to keep in mind when choosing your dog’s food.

1. Nutrition

The basic needs of a balanced canine diet include protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals.

Proteins are the foundation of your dog’s diet. Your dog will eat things other than protein, but if you skip out on this one, you will see it in its overall health and appearance soon enough. Dogs need protein to build muscle, repair tissues, and support overall growth and health. Solid sources of protein are: chicken, turkey, fish, beef, and eggs.

Carbohydrates supplement a dog’s diet with the necessary fibers needed for good digestion and give them an energy boost. Complex carbs are best; simple ones should be avoided, as they spike blood sugar levels and can cause a range of health issues. Best stick to brown rice, oats, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, apples, bananas, and legumes like lentils and peas.

Fats are essential for dogs, as they help keep their fur shiny, their brains active, and their energy levels up. Salmon oil, flaxseed oil, and chicken fat are excellent sources of unsaturated fats, whereas animal products, beef fat, and dairy products are great sources of saturated fats. Trans fats, such as those found in fried foods, processed meats, and sweets, should be avoided.

Even with this, moderation is key, and if you need to supplement or if your dog is deficient in any way, consult a vet and develop the proper diet.

The same goes for vitamins and minerals. Unless the food you give your dog is rich in vitamins A, C, D, E, K, zinc, and calcium, you might need to supplement. However, this is best left to a veterinarian to advise on. Anything in this area is problematic if it is too little or too much.

2. Understanding Commercial Dog Food

Picking dog food based on the most convincing commercial is as bad an idea as choosing your own food based on that. If you haven’t started reading labels yet, you should.

Many labels feature the ‘complete and balanced’ claim on the package. This indicates that they contain all the essential nutrients listed earlier, in the correct proportions, making the food a comprehensive source of necessary nutrients when choosing that brand of dog food.

If you don’t see this on the package and you find an ‘intermittent or supplemental feeding only’, it means that the product by itself is not considered sufficient to meet the dietary needs of your dog.

Another thing to watch out for is the ingredient list. Yes, it’s not enough that you go through that for your own food; you need to do it for your dog’s food, too.

Avoid vague terms for meat, such as by-product or animal digest. Anything other than chicken/lamb/beef meat should raise a red flag. Look for fillers such as corn, wheat, and soy, and avoid products containing them. Given that ingredient lists are ordered by weight in the product, the higher the filler, the more of it the dog food contains.

Check for hidden sugars and artificial additives, such as colors and flavors. These are harmful to humans who can metabolize them, and even more dangerous for dogs.

Keep in mind that the ingredients listed first are in the largest quantities, whereas the last one is in the smallest amount. Also, it’s always best to choose products with the shortest ingredient lists.

3. How to Choose Your Dog’s Food

Once you understand how to read the ingredient list and which nutrients to look for, it’s time to know what type of dog food to choose based on your dog’s specific needs. These will vary according to your dog’s age, size, and existing medical conditions.

Puppy food is different than adult food and senior dog food. Puppies need protein-rich food more often. Adult dogs need a more balanced diet to maintain their energy levels. Senior dogs need low-calorie food, as obesity in older dogs poses more problems and weight loss is more difficult at an advanced age.

Special needs in nutrition mean allergies, sensitive stomachs, and weight management. Usually, these are indicated on the package, but if a veterinarian identifies your dog’s needs, they might also recommend a brand of dog food and products.

4. What Type of Dog Food to Choose

As a dog owner, you can choose between kibble, wet food, or homemade food. Once again, when in doubt, you can consult your vet to make sure they recommend the best option available. However, apart from good intentions, there is also the issue of access to the right ingredients. Also, choices may vary significantly depending on your budget.

Dry kibble is the most budget-friendly option. However, this type of dog food varies significantly in quality, and you must become an expert at reading ingredient lists. Also, while affordability is its best asset, choosing more expensive brands with better ingredient lists might be the best option for your dog.

Wet food is tastier, but every dog owner knows that once a dog gets a taste of it, going back to dry kibble becomes challenging and puts a severe strain on the budget. This option is better for dogs since its ingredient list may contain fewer fillers and additives and because it also serves as a supplementary source of hydration.

Fresh food and homemade diets are often the healthiest options because you get to choose the ingredients. However, it needs a lot of careful planning, quality ingredients are not cheap, not even when purchased raw, and it spoils easily unless consumed in a timely fashion.

All available options have advantages and disadvantages. See what works best for you and don’t shy away from doing a combination of all three. It might just be the winning ticket.

5. Things to Watch Out For

If you pay attention to what your dog needs and which products on the market contain it, you should be good. But, you should still watch out for:

Quantity

Smaller dogs eat less than bigger dogs. Younger dogs eat more frequently and more than older dogs. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, and obesity comes with a plethora of associated diseases. Apart from that, the older and sicker your dog gets, the harder it is to bring it back to a healthier state.

Human Food

They will beg. And beg. And beg. They will beg relentlessly, especially if they know you will eventually give up. They have nothing but time and patience. But this does not mean you are doing them any favors. Most of the food we feed our dogs, given how it’s processed, cooked, and seasoned, is bad for them. Indulging them with a bite once in a while won’t immediately harm them.

But bite by bite, if it becomes a habit, it will be harmful. Chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, xylitol, alcohol, cooked bones, excessive salt, or fat must be avoided at all costs.

Sudden Food Switches

Keep in mind that your dog might not accept a complete food switch overnight, regardless of how well-meant or medically justified it is. Change it gradually and build acceptance; otherwise, you will have to add a lack of appetite to the list of things you need to solve.

Falling for Marketing Promises

A pretty package and an ad with a happy dog don’t make a product suitable for your best friend. A clean and short ingredient list will.

If any of the above issues have already given you headaches, congratulations! It means you are a responsible dog owner who is truly concerned with your dog’s well-being, and we couldn’t ask for more. We love it when we know dogs are in the care of people who want them to thrive!

So, don’t fret, look at your dog, know its needs, read ingredient lists, ask your veterinarian for some validation on brands and products when you are unsure, and if you can get good, clean, and healthy ingredients – not to mention the time to cook them – sprinkle some home-cooked dog meals into that for love and tender care.

For over 20 years, ROLDA has worked to build a safer future for abandoned and abused animals. Originating in Romania, where stray populations reached several million and public shelters faced extremely tough conditions, we have progressed by focusing on sterilization, education, and the construction of modern shelters. These efforts are transforming the lives of Romanian animals. Additionally, the ROLDA branches established in the US, Australia, and Europe support Romanian projects and campaigns.

For example, in the US, we operate as the Romanian League in Defense of Animals, Inc., while in Australia, we are ROLDA Ltd. In Europe, each branch carries its own ROLDA name. All these locations are crucial to our mission. Additionally, with our recent expansions into Denmark and the UAE, our international presence continues to grow, and we decided to expand our name to better reflect our growing global reach.

Together, we are now “ROLDA: United for Vulnerable Animals Worldwide.”

Looking ahead, our organization aims to support vulnerable animals in disaster-affected areas worldwide, alongside our ongoing efforts for animals in Romania. The addition of “United for Vulnerable Animals Worldwide” to the ROLDA name honors our origins and connects our present to a future in which we can assist animals in Ukraine, the Middle East, and other countries where animals have little hope.

Our #GiveHope slogan reflects on challenging times when we persevered as a team and celebrates the victories, big and small, that fueled our motivation.

As we move forward under our new name, our commitment to animal welfare remains unwavering. United by compassion and driven by hope, ROLDA will continue to make a difference for vulnerable animals wherever help is needed most.

Together, we can create a brighter, safer future for animals around the world