Rescue and Welfare
The size of the problem As with any breed, a situation may arise where owners may no longer be able to care for their BGV. BGVs come into rescue for various reasons but it is often due to changed circumstances such as the break-up of a marriage, a move overseas, a baby arriving so the dog needs to go, children too young to understand how to treat a dog or someone not being able to cope. Often it is simply because they are hounds – and it may be a case of the owners not being able to appreciate those special traits.Some are taken in by that lovely, cute puppy they have seen in magazines, in books on websites and even occasionally on TV. However, being a hound, a BGV is not the ideal pet for everyone - and some do not readily adapt to owning this type of dog. The new owners may find out the hard way especially if a breeder has not been completely frank or has failed to give enough information.
The hunting instinct can be very strong and the nose tends to take over from the brains. One small scent and the hunter will be off on the chase. If you stand your ground, your dog will eventually return – but how long are you prepared to wait? Understanding at the outset that these are scent-hounds who, given half a chance, may be off on the track of something will help potential owners to decide whether this is the right breed for them – and possibly prevent a BGV from ending up in rescue.
Whatever the circumstances, it is important that owners know we are able to offer immediate support and care and, where suitable, agree to find a new home for the BGV – or, in some cases, the BGVs.
Our Code of Practice: In 2006, to ensure high standards for our Rescue and Welfare arrangements, the Club implemented a Code of Practice with a Trustee/Rescue Co-ordinator with two additional Trustees. These people are collectively responsible for decisions made for the welfare of any BGVs needing our help.
Our Aim: Our goal is to never have a dog in our rescue kennels. With careful management and placing of dogs into the correct homes, we can achieve this. If we do take a BGV into our care, it will receive both our attention and that of a vet. We also ensure good feeding, grooming, health and contentment before the BGV goes to its new home. We aim to do this as quickly as possible to minimise distress for all involved and to ensure that the BGV is able to settle quickly.
How the club raises funds to help: The Basset Griffon Vendéen Rescue and Welfare is financed by the Club’s monthly Limited Odds Draw, donations and fund raising events. For the Limited Odds Draw, each participant contributes £12 a year and is allocated a number. Each month a draw takes place and three numbers are selected. If the participant’s number is chosen, a cash prize is won. The profit from this goes to the Rescue and Welfare fund. For further details of the LOD, contact Audrey Herring on 01923 283367 or click here.
Another way that the club raises money is to hold regional fun days and other get-togethers during the year. These are always highly enjoyable, giving pet owners and especially those who own rescued BGVs the opportunity to meet others with the same breed. It is always good to hear everyone comparing notes about what their dogs have been up to!
Help available:
If you hear of a BGV that needs help or you yourself need help with re-homing one, please call Diana Sadler on 01544 230794 or email dianasadler@btinternet.com
asdfasdf