Vladimir Golubev, President of the Russian Cynological Federation (RKF), has issued a strong warning against the practice of “dog sharing,” stating it is detrimental and potentially dangerous for canines. In a recent interview, Golubev emphasized that only inanimate objects should be rented, and utilizing animals for such commercial purposes is unacceptable.
The Rise of Dog Sharing
Offers for short-term dog rentals, commonly referred to as dog sharing, are increasingly found online. Individuals typically engage these services for purposes such as photo sessions, special events, or to simulate pet ownership before committing to acquiring their own puppy.
Profound Risks for Canine Well-being
“Such a business can lead to severe psychological trauma for a dog. Furthermore, it inherently puts their life at risk: you can never truly know the client`s intentions; they might even be an animal abuser. A pet is not a car or any other inanimate object; the very notion of renting them out should not even be entertained,” Golubev stated.
The expert highlighted that frequent changes in living environments are extremely detrimental to a dog`s stability. According to the cynologist, a pet should ideally be attached to a single owner or, at most, one family residing in a consistent home. Other individuals should ideally evoke indifference in the dog or only engage its attention for brief, temporary periods.
Behavioral and Health Consequences
A dog that is continuously passed from hand to hand through dog sharing services is highly susceptible to becoming anxious and irritable. Golubev cautioned that even mild stress can disrupt a dog`s crucial routines, including its feeding patterns, bowel movements, and sleep quality. Collectively, these disturbances can lead to a wide array of health issues and compromise the animal`s overall well-being.
The RKF President stressed that a dog`s daily routine is not designed for it to participate in various events or photo sessions for several hours each day. Ideally, a dog`s life should adhere to a consistent and clear schedule, the maintenance of which is the responsibility of a conscientious owner. Moreover, adult dogs require considerable sleep, often up to 16 hours daily, and overstimulation or insufficient rest can severely impair their physical health and mental state.
“Dogs become accustomed to a specific diet. Can you truly be certain that a client won`t disregard it? That they won`t try to feed the dog table scraps or simply at an inappropriate time? Any alteration in dietary habits can instantly impact their digestive system,” Golubev urged potential renters to carefully consider these risks.
Unacceptable Safety Risks: Abuse and Escape
Golubev finds it difficult to fathom a responsible owner willingly entrusting their cherished pet to a complete stranger. He reminded that distressing cases of animal cruelty frequently appear in the media, and it is inherently impossible to verify a “client`s” true intentions beforehand. Furthermore, a dog in unfamiliar surroundings might behave unpredictably, for instance, by breaking free from its leash and running away, posing a significant safety concern.
A Call for Prohibition and Responsible Alternatives
Overall, Golubev asserts that dog sharing offers no positive benefits for either the dog itself or for those who engage in renting it. He firmly believes that using animals for such commercial purposes demonstrates a negligent and irresponsible attitude towards them and should therefore be prohibited. He also suggested that those who engage in renting animals should face administrative liability.
For those genuinely interested in experiencing dog ownership in a responsible manner, the RKF President offered several valuable pieces of advice:
- Ask trusted friends or relatives if you can care for their pet while they are on vacation.
- Engage with reputable breeders and attend professional dog shows to learn more about breeds and responsible care.
- Volunteer for at least a day at a local dog shelter to gain practical experience and understand the commitment involved in pet care.
