Working with Rescue and Shelter Dogs’ L.E.G.S.

How do L.E.G.S. help us better understand dogs coming from shelters and rescues? This course explores the unique realities of adopted dogs, including the unknown histories, environmental changes, stressors, and expectations that often come with rescue work. While every dog has their own L.E.G.S., dogs who enter shelter or rescue systems may arrive with layers of uncertainty that make thoughtful assessment and support especially important.

This presentation helps professionals look beyond labels and assumptions to better understand how learning history, current environment, genetic tendencies, and individual health or temperament can shape behavior. Participants will explore how to support decompression, placement decisions, behavior planning, and adopter expectations in ways that protect welfare and reduce unnecessary blame. The goal is to help rescue and shelter dogs be seen more clearly and supported more fully.