Dogworks Canine Rescue

Since we last visited DogWorks Canine Rescue in Vacaville, it seems that there's been no letup in the pace of Dobermans finding themselves homeless. It's always been the case that some people have been attracted to these intelligent, high-energy dogs and then found themselves overwhelmed by their real-life demands, but lately the long-term havoc created by the economy has also taken a heavy toll. DogWorks' Leanne Loza explains an innovative way the rescue has stepped up to adapt to the new demands. In response to a flood of requests from owners losing homes and jobs, who can't keep their dogs as a result, "we developed a program called 'direct referral,' where we make connection between owners and adopters without taking the Dobie into foster care. To qualify for this program, the Doberman must be spayed/neutered, vaccinations and heartworm status current, with vet proof to support the claim. Adopters whom we've already screened as good adoption candidates may meet the Dobie either in neutral territory such as our foster homes, or at home of either party. A condition of the adoption is that no funds be exchanged between parties." For the first time in their history, DogWorks fosters are hard pressed to keep up with the deluge of Dobies landing in Bay Area shelters, but fortunately, Dana Johnson of Red Bluff-based Northern California Doberman Rescue has been able to take in many of those dogs as well. more »

Doberman Pinschers' good looks and lively personalities can often lead to ill-advised adoptions. That's where DogWorks Canine Rescue comes in, taking in Dobes from Northern California shelters and owners unprepared for the breed's needs.

"Originally Dobermans were bred in Germany to be guard dogs," explains DogWorks' Joleene Ladyman, "but in the U.S., they have been 'softened' to be family companions appreciated for their alertness, faithfulness, intelligence, trainability, beauty and sense of humor. Dobes can be 'high maintenance' due to some health conditions in the breed, and they are a high-energy working breed. Many young Dobes are given up to rescues because their adopters did not realize how much exercise and attention they need to thrive and develop into ideal companions."

Meanwhile, adds Ladyman, the economy is causing still others to lose their homes. One recent rescue is Chris, a beautiful, sweet young guy who landed in a shelter as a stray, suffering from serious anemia and internal bleeding, probably from an injury. DogWorks supporters came through with donations, and Chris is recovering nicely.