|
Are you interested in saving a life? If you answered yes, please complete and submit to us a Caregiver Application. Do you have questions regarding our caregiver program? If so, please contact shana@fortheloveofpits.org. |
There are few animal welfare organizations in Ohio actually helping pit bull dogs so you can imagine how many calls we get to help homeless pit bull dogs. Large organizations claiming to protect animals turn their back on the dogs who need their help the most and we believe it's inexcusable. We receive numerous calls and emails daily from owners, people who have found stray dogs, police, wardens, cruelty officers, rescuers, humane society staff and others requesting that we rescue pit bull dogs that will be killed if a rescue does not come forward. Because we are such a small organization, we are generally unable to help.
Despite what many people believe, we do not have an actual shelter (although we hope to begin raising money and planning for a building in the Cleveland area). For the Love of Pits® provides assistance to homeless dogs when generous and devoted volunteers open up their home to a dog in need (each, a “Caregiver” and, collectively, “Caregivers”).
 |
|
Dan with his 3 FTLOP's dogs. |
Caregivers are integral to our rescue efforts. Without the help and support of Caregivers, we have to turn away needy and deserving pit bull dogs. Although extremely rewarding, being a Caregiver is extremely challenging. Before you submit the Caregiver application, please carefully consider whether you and your family are up to the challenge.
The dogs in our rescue program often have been abused, neglected and/or abandoned, have not been socialized and have never had loving homes. As a result, Caregivers provide the rescue dog with a stable environment to recover from the abuse inflicted by former owners and/or society. Being a Caregiver and providing a temporary home to a needy dog is not easy; it takes time, love, attention and devotion to helping these dogs.
When For the Love of Pits accepts a dog into our program, we place the dog in a Caregiver’s home and do not uproot the dog until a forever home is found. Placing a dog in the dog’s forever home can take anywhere from three (3) months to two (2) years; however, For the Love of Pits generally never places a dog in its forever home before the dog has been in our rescue for at least six (6) months. On average, dogs are in our rescue program for approximately one year prior to being placed in a forever home.
For the Love of Pits pays for veterinary care, monthly heartworm and flea preventatives and a basic obedience class. Caregivers pay for quality food, treats, toys, blankets and other similar items.
 |
|
David with his FTLOP's dog. |
Here are just a few responsibilities of our Caregivers:
-
To provide daily care.
Just like owning a pet, this includes feeding, exercise, waste clean-up and positive, loving interactions, as well as being on the lookout for any emerging medical or behavioral issues. -
To provide a safe, loving, predictable and consistent home environment.
Many dogs are returned to humane societies because the dogs do not have manners, do not listen or are not sufficiently trained. As a Caregiver, you have the chance to teach the dog just what love is all about, in the form of consistent training, predictable routines, play and affection. -
To Attend Obedience Classes.
Many of the dogs we rescue have never learned basic obedience or good manners. Our goal is to provide each dog basic obedience training so that they are well-behaved ambassadors upon placement. Classes will be held once a week for six weeks and the Caregiver will need to work with the dog each day. -
To allow prospective parties meet the dog in its home environment.
After an interested party is screened in accordance with our policies and we believe we've found a potential forever home, we will work with you to arrange a meet-and-greet. We will solicit your input to help us match up the best possible family with the each dog. - To provide feedback.
Your role is to provide truthful and complete information about the dog. We'll also want to know how you are doing. We want to make your experience the most positive it can be!