Every homeless dog should be treated as an individual, so says the Animal Rescue League of Boston.
With a $3 million contribution from the Stanton Foundation, the league is establishing what it says will be the first facility in the nation dedicated to taking in homeless dogs, caring for them, and preparing them for adoption.
Instead of the stereotypical pound, with dogs in randomly assigned cages, the league's Center for Shelter Dogs will screen dogs early for behavioral problems and try to develop methods of dealing with stress that the animals experience in the shelter (as opposed to the home) environment. The facility on Chandler Street in the South End is expected to open in the fall.
The league will also work with families to try to match the right dog with the right home, and will follow up to reevaluate the matching strategies.
"It's not like buying a refrigerator," said Dr. Gary Patronek, a veterinarian and Animal Rescue League vice president. People sometimes fail to fully appreciate a dog's past experiences, he said, and the center will allow veterinarians to learn more about managing canine behavior.
The foundation is named for the late Frank Stanton, longtime president of CBS Inc. and a leading figure in the development of the television industry. The donation is the largest ever for the 109-year-old rescue league.
"We are honored to be selected by the Stanton Foundation to develop a world-class program for homeless dogs," said Jay Bowen, the league's president, in announcing the grant. "The Center for Shelter Dogs will greatly impact the welfare and placement of dogs in Massachusetts and throughout the country."
Patronek said information gleaned from the center will be made available to shelters nationwide through DVDs, web seminars, and direct contact.
JOHN M. GUILFOIL
