Always bared teeth, aggressive barking and erect hackles – that’s how the male “Rafi” presented himself a few weeks ago. His overwhelmed keeper saw no way out and handed him over to the animal corner “Krone”, we reported. A special rehabilitation program gives “Rafi” a second chance and is well on its way to finding new owners.
What was unthinkable at the beginning of the summer has now become a reality. “Problem dog Rafi” walked calmly into the editorial office of the animal corner and then slept completely relaxed through the 20-minute visit to the krone.tv studio, where his case was presented. Even for former animal rights activist Maggie Entenfellner, this is almost a miracle: “I didn’t think our ‘Rafi’ would progress so quickly. I’m very happy that we’re on the right track here and can save him from staying in a kennel.”
a review
But what had actually happened? “Rafi” was taken from the streets of Romania to Austria by an alleged animal rights activist and placed in a totally wrong place. With the inexperienced owner, the male developed into a ticking time bomb – there were biting incidents, his case was taken up by the police.
But “Rafi’s” rescuer wanted nothing more to do with this and left dog and owner to their fate. “An absolute no-go in animal welfare and a crime against the animal itself,” warns Entenfellner in a TV interview.
In the reform school
But the tide has turned, since June is used professionally with the dog. Styrian Georg Resch took “Rafi” out of the kennel and included him in his rehabilitation program.
There the male is prepared for his new life – also with the help of animals – positive behavior is reinforced and negative things are corrected. “Much of this work is done by the pack in which ‘Rafi’ now lives. He learns from the other dogs and they balance him out,” Resch explains how he deals with cases like this.
Everything has to be learned anew
It is only when a dog has been successfully integrated into the group that the so-called “environmental work” begins. Every conceivable situation is practiced here until the dog is in the saddle and reacts relaxed to its environment. It starts with a simple visit to the mall, riding together on public transport, to a walk through the amusement park – because that’s where a dog’s senses are particularly challenged.
In Vienna’s Prater
Many people, noise, light and smells – these stimuli can be trained particularly well in the Wiener Wurstelprater. Together with the editor, they dared to take a walk through the crowds, with Georg Resch explaining exactly why this is important: “Normally this kind of training should be practiced from puppyhood, it forms the basis of dog training. once you have mastered the environmental training, you can start thinking about tricks or dog sports.”
mediation to the best place
With our “Rafi” it will take a few more weeks before he has mastered all tasks routinely and flawlessly. The long-term goal is to find the perfect place for him. “What exactly that looks like will become clear over time and the choice will certainly not be easy. In any case, they must be experienced owners who can even offer them a place next to a sovereign second dog. Georg Resch will also help the new owner get used to and handle it in the early days,” says Maggie Entenfellner confidently.
“Rafi” is six years old, neutered, vaccinated, wormed and chipped of course. If you are interested in taking over “Rafi” or if you would like more information, please contact the animal corner by phone at 05/7060 23317 or by email at tierecke@kronenzeitung.at.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
