NETWORK INTRODUCTION:
Mission: This network will guide all to better understand Shar-pei and the purpose of rescue, and to encourage organizations to focus on animal welfare.
What are Chinese Shar-Pei?
There are some animals that, when you look deeply into their eyes, you realize that the animal is looking back with similar depth and intensity. It can be a very disconcerting experience! That level of intelligence and acute awareness is clearly evident in the eyes of the Shar-Pei. He is a thinking dog, active and alert, fully confident that equal is viewing equal.
The Shar-Pei is a surprising dog in many ways. His enchanting puppy hood, full of wrinkles and folds, makes him one of the most unique members of the dog world. As an adult, the pup's baggy, oversized costume becomes a well-tailored suit, appropriate for this calm and dignified animal. The transformation from charming to classy is the part of the mystery that surrounds this breed.
Shar-Pei can be source of joy and pride for the family that challenges his mind, encourages his obedience, and nourishes his emotional needs. His ancestors should always be remembered however, for underneath the charm is a powerful animal, as there still lingers the assertiveness and bravado that ensured his survival in less "civilized" world.
The Chinese word Shar-Pei loosely translates as "sand skin," which is a descriptive standard of their harsh coat, and our American breeders have proven their lineage connections are more closely related to the Mastiff family. For generations, this breed portrayed an image of undying loyalty, perseverance, and bravery, which has created the Shar-Pei into a valuable family companion and guardian today. They are a generally a very socially structured animal, integrating closely with their individual family order. It is imperative that humans establish "alpha" position as "pack" leaders.
What is Animal Welfare?
According to American Veterinary Medical Association, animal welfare is the physical and psychological well-being of animals. The term animal welfare can also mean human concern for animal welfare or a position in a debate on animal ethics and animal rights. There are also various means of measuring animal welfare, including (but not limited to) health, productivity, behavior, and physiological responses.
We believe the Chinese Shar-Pei is not the right breed for everyone. The best recommendation from all organizations is to take your time in choosing! Researching the local groups, going to see a number of dogs, and thinking carefully about the selection a specific dog are all strongly encouraged. The prospective owner/adopter must be realistic about the ability not only to afford a Shar-pei, but to be able to provide for the dog's physical, emotional, and training needs.
What are Non Profit Organizations?
According to National Council of Nonprofits, nonprofit organizations are "public benefit" corporations; the purpose of their existence is to benefit the public as opposed to the private interests of their board members, staff or even of individual clients. The mission of any charitable nonprofit expresses the particular way that the organization will fulfill its public benefit purpose.
We believe non-profit organizations should address all their fostered pets' needs, both physical and mental. Rescue is not meant to be a pet "flipping" business, with rehoming of only highly publicized animals with the least amount of money and time as possible. We realize foster and financial resources are critically limited, but rescued animals deserve better than the neglect or abuse they were rescued from, so please take the time to treat them right!