HAL combines two basic frameworks in order to meet the needs of a dog. First, the dogs are always allowed access to wide open spaces surrounded by 8 foot high fences in which to run, walk, chew bones, play tag or simply be. Other than for health or acclimation reasons, no dogs are confined to small spaces. All of the dogs have constant access to a large insulated, heated building lovingly called t
he dog house. The dog house has furniture, blankets, toys, and a heated floor to provide comfort and fun 24 hours a day. The concept of the "dog park" was our inspiration after seeing the benefits to dogs that have the chance to run with abandon. HAL has seen many dogs turn from snappy and fractious to content, cheerful dogs simply by having constant access to exercise. Interestingly enough, the older dogs seem to benefit tremendously also from the exercise, as their old muscles strengthen to support joints; their hearts get a little stronger as well. The second framework is of the family home. A family lives on the site, and all of the dogs have access to the family home. Each dog receives whatever physical attention he or she wishes and is allowed to sleep in close proximity to their new human family. It is not uncommon for the floor to be filled by dogs sleeping side by side so that they can be in with the family. Dogs with separation anxiety are particularly benefited by this structure and seek contact enthusiastically. Feral dogs can take the time necessary to watch and learn from afar, without fear of being cornered or hurt. In short, HAL works by allowing dogs to be dogs! The pack structure works like a wolf pack structure, with the humans as the ultimate pack leaders. The pack leaders establish the rules of interaction and do not tolerate transgressions. Dogs feel a sense of relief to hand over the reins to their human leaders! The animals that come to us have been through sufficient trauma and transition that the decision to accept them into the HAL sanctuary means sparing them from the alternative (euthanasia) and letting them live a long life with us. HAL works with many rescue groups to provide options for people in search of an animal to adopt. Visits to HAL are extremely controlled and by special appointment only. Because many of our dogs have been traumatized by humans, and some of the details evade us, we cannot predict how some dogs will react to strangers. Visitors must agree to refrain from engaging in play or in correction for the safety of both dogs and humans. That said, many HAL dogs may greet visitors boisterously and affectionately. Every effort will be made by HAL caretakers to ensure safety and comfort on the part of the visitor. We encourage patience and a sense of humor when meeting HAL dogs since they have come from every imaginable history, and we welcome, instead of discourage, loving effusive contact with people.
