Stop gushing! (on Petfinder, in particular)

[casablanca1]

Reading Petfinder, while diverting, often makes my teeth hurt. The purple prose, baby-talk, shameles bs'ing is overwhelming after a while. Every dog "wonders why he/she can't be part of a family" (do dogs really wonder things?) Every former owner "didn't take the time to train X." Every large dog is really "a big baby." All dogs 'give lots of kisses," "is beautiful' and "loves to play.' And then there are the listings that are in the first person, ie, the dog is speaking directly to wouldbe adopters. I'm surprised more people don't drop dead of insulin shock reading these things. Please, I'm begging you: if you write a Petfinder ad, just be honest and clear. What's so hard about saying something like:

Bill is about 1 year old and, best guess, a beagle or beagle mix. He is neutered and weighs about 25lbs. We have had him examined by a vet and he is now up-to-date on basic vaccines, on heartworm preventative. He will walk on a leash with some pulling, and sits on command. He's been temperament-tested and does not have the patience or tolerance we look for when adopting out to families with small children. He does test well with dogs, but appears predatory with cats.

Instead of:

Princess is a SWEET, SWEET girl with a capital S! She loves everyone, although she is a little shy when you first meet her! Princess needs to be an only dog so that she can get all the love to herself! She loves her kong and other toys and really enjoys cuddling, snuggling, and giving LOTS of big wet kisses!

or

Mmm! This milk chocolate treat acts almost as delicious as she looks! It's hard to take your eyes off this beauty she appears so yummy! Bounding about with lots of energy she would love a home with lots of room or a human friend who loved to go for long walks out in the park. Pack a picnic basket full of treats for you and her and come pick this supermodel up for a permanent date!

I'm not exagerating, these are real ads. I particularly like the Princess one, where they managed to slip in what is likely dog-aggression in a way that makes it sound like she just wants all you luuuuv to herself. Yes, that's one way to look at it.

[Zoom]

You really are a bitter person, aren't you.

[Gustav]

You really are a bitter person, aren't you.

*Snorts* If the shoe fits.. :D

[Julie]

I think it takes special caring people to work rescue, therefore the ads may seem childish or mushy to "harder" people. They are also trying to "sell" the dog to find him a permanent loving home.
The ads don't make my teeth hurt,... maybe you should see a dentist. :D

[Momof2Pups]

You really are a bitter person, aren't you.
LOL. Sure seems like it.

[bluezano]

Given the number of dogs that are put down in shelters every year, I would assume that the rescues and shelters would try any method to attempt to give their dogs a chance at a forever home, including sweet with a capital S, picnics and such.

While it might not be "just the facts", some people approach dog ownership from the heart, rather than the mind, and these ads might appeal to them.

[Sweet72947]

Right bluezano, its all about marketing. Bios are written that way because its what the people respond to.

[casablanca1]

1) The ends don't justify the means. Marketing and emotional manipulation are how ad execs sell toothpaste and pet stores sell puppies, they're not appropriate ways to attract people to your shelter or dogs. They play into exactly what shelters and rescues are supposed to avoid - impulse buying, emotional and thoughtless choices, the kind that led to the purchase and subsquent surrender of these same animals. People thinking 'with their heart' is why I hear stories like this: the 28-year-old guy living with his frail grandmother and working 12 hours a day buys a second Rottie after having to euthanize the first for biting grammie; the 35-year-old man who travels constantly for business and has a busy wife with a career insists on buying not one but two Mastiffs; the pregnant girl who adopts a high-strung, one-person lap dog. Everyone thinks with their heart when they go to adopt a dog. The shelters and rescues aren't supposed to encourage that, they're supposed to add common sense, not burble about chocolate treats and kisses.

2) Bitter? Hard? Wow, for a bunch of warm, soft, open people, some of you really know how to talk nasty. It is possible to disagree with someone without being rude and inappropriate. bluezano managed it, for which I thank her.

[LhasaLover]

It's called "positive spin" and it's used for everything in the world when we're trying to pass off neutral or negative information in a positive manner. ;)

Some of it *is* a little over the top, but if they put "just the facts, Ma'am" in all those ads what do you think the response rate would be? Just because people respond to those ads doesn't mean they get the animal, either. The rescue I work with seriously screens all applicants, and I know a lot of others do, too.

The ads are designed to get an inquiry, which may or may not turn into the person getting that animal. After they contact rescue and are screened, some of them are switched over to better suited animals. The end result *does* justify the means.

[mamasobuco]

Given the number of dogs that are put down in shelters every year, I would assume that the rescues and shelters would try any method to attempt to give their dogs a chance at a forever home, including sweet with a capital S, picnics and such.

While it might not be "just the facts", some people approach dog ownership from the heart, rather than the mind, and these ads might appeal to them.

This pretty much sums it up blue. I write petfinder bios for my fosters and YES, they are mushie and gushing with wonderful things. Part of my job is to get to know the pups so that I can tell potential adoptors about them. In this process, I tend to fall in love with every one of them and those bios come straight from my heart. It is also very good way to help people feel that warm and fuzzy feeling you get when you see a puppy in person. These bios are much like personal ads IMO. For Goodness sake, we are trying to find them homes.
Just a little side note, we get WAY more calls and emails on the dogs with first person bios. :p

[Serena]

Having been involved in rescue for quite a few years now I have written my share of bios for adoptable dogs..

For the most part I tend to take in the "special needs" dogs that is those with little training, socialization, behavioral problems, etc...In other words for the most part the dogs I work with and foster if they are able to be rehabiliated and adopted out many of them require a more experienced owner...because of this the bios I write tend to reflect the dogs strenghts and weaknesses..so potential pet owners know exactly what they are getting into right from the get-go.

Is either method right or wrong? No, just because a bio written up on a dog is all positive does not mean the rescuer does not discuss any problems within the first phone call or email..Just because a bio points out things the dog needs to work on does not mean it can't come from the heart.

In the end how a bio is written up is of little importance..whats more important is extensive screening of potential pet owners to ensure that each dog adopted out goes to a worthy forever home.

[noludoru]

Casablanca does have a point. They all tend to sound the same when they're written like that, and I've seen plenty of ads that posess almost no real information, but are so sweet they could be mistaken for chocolate. It's great if people want to write a cutesy ad, and as long as they provide real information about the dog's strengths and weaknesses as well as past history (if applicable) I don't care if they write the ad in netspeak.

I just get irritated at the ones that provide false information, or the ones that provide almost no information (Cookie is a Beagle/Pomeranian mix, cute as a button, and waiting to go to a new home? Apply here to be Cookie's forever home!).

[Melissa_W]

Have you ever interviewed for a job? I assume you have. And if you got the job, you know it's the same way. You have to sell yourself. You talk about your strong points. It's the same way with the ads.

[casablanca1]

In regards to the crazy ads: I've never applied for a job by sending out resumes on scented pink paper covered in unicorns to 'cute' my way into a job, or gone to an interview with my medical bills in hand to show how much I need the position. Which is only sensible because any employer in their right mind would react like I was crazy if I did. There's a difference between positive spin and emotional blackmail.

In regards to the less crazy but still evasive ads (Rex's first owners couldn't be bothered to train him, but he's full of love! Prefers to be a single pet) sales methods are inappropriate to adopting out living creatures. Shelters and rescues should use sales to publicize themselves and their work, but their core work, matching people with animals, should be sacrosanct.

[Melissa_W]

In regards to the crazy ads: I've never applied for a job by sending out resumes on scented pink paper covered in unicorns to 'cute' my way into a job, or gone to an interview with my medical bills in hand to show how much I need the position. Which is only sensible because any employer in their right mind would react like I was crazy if I did. There's a difference between positive spin and emotional blackmail.

In regards to the less crazy but still evasive ads (Rex's first owners couldn't be bothered to train him, but he's full of love! Prefers to be a single pet) sales methods are inappropriate to adopting out living creatures. Shelters and rescues should use sales to publicize themselves and their work, but their core work, matching people with animals, should be sacrosanct.

Neither have I, and I didn't say anything even remotely like that. :confused: I was referring to "positive spin". I haven't seen many (if any) ads that are as ridiculous as the ones you've seen, I guess. I think most rescues do a fine job matching dogs with owners. In fact, some of them are too picky, imo.

[MafiaPrincess]

Guess this makes me cold too, but the mushy ads have turned me off petfinder.. When I have inquired on dogs that had mushy bios, I was told they weren't the right dog for me before I'd told them half a sentence. I think they should be a little more honest. And a little off topic, I wish some weren't so stuck on having to have breed experience to even dare contact single breed rescue about their specific breed. Mushy bio sucks someone in to be told dog isn't for you. Maybe if the ad was straight forward, it would be clearer what that dog actually needed in a home. *shrug*

[noludoru]

There's a difference between positive spin and emotional blackmail.

In regards to the less crazy but still evasive ads (Rex's first owners couldn't be bothered to train him, but he's full of love! Prefers to be a single pet) sales methods are inappropriate to adopting out living creatures. Shelters and rescues should use sales to publicize themselves and their work, but their core work, matching people with animals, should be sacrosanct.

:hail:

[mjb]

I have heard more complaints about having a hard time qualifying for a pet through pet rescues. I don't know if it's the same rescues that advertise their fosters as positively as possible or not. Some have extensive screening processes, though.

[Melissa_W]

I have heard more complaints about having a hard time qualifying for a pet through pet rescues. I don't know if it's the same rescues that advertise their fosters as positively as possible or not. Some have extensive screening processes, though.

They sure do... I'm automatically disqualified from at least half the rescues around here because I don't have a fenced yard. :rolleyes: As if that automatically makes you a good dog owner. Nevermind the fact that you could just dump your dog in the yard and totally ignore it... but I digress...

[LhasaLover]

As to the ad writing, it's a basic tool of sales to evoke an emotional response in someone to motivate them to buy. I would classify dogs as an emotional acquisition so it's particularly important to use that tool with them, especially since virtually all of them are adult dogs, not cute little puppies.

As to rescue screening, many older dogs come with issues and it's very important to know the applicant can handle those issues; otherwise you're going to end up with the dog being surrendered again because someone couldn't handle the unhousebroken dog, the dog that doesn't get along with other animals or kids, the dog that has aggression issues.

About 30 years ago I put an ad in the paper for a large & beautiful white German Shepherd mix that had become extremely possessive of me, to the point that he was lunging at little children that passed me and even going after my family if there was any physical contact. I was too inexperienced at that time to handle him, so I put in the ad that no one with kids could have him and you wouldn't believe how many people with kids called me and said they wanted a guard dog for them. :rolleyes:

[RD]

Marketing is fine, but honesty is equally important. I wrote out petfinder ads for quite awhile and I know I would have felt horrible if someone adopted the wrong dog because I made them seem all happypwettyrainbows on petfinder.

It's important to be honest about the dog's issues. If the dog doesn't like other dogs, SAY it. Wanting "all the love to herself" is just sugarcoating dog aggression. I think it's perfectly fine to say that the dog needs work. People shouldn't expect to acquire a robot.

By trying to portray a dog as perfect, people are often attracting the wrong kind of "buyers". JMO.

[Aussie Red]

You really are a bitter person, aren't you.

:hail: :hail: :hail:
Only to add if they annoy you stop reading them

[Aussie Red]

1) The ends don't justify the means. Marketing and emotional manipulation are how ad execs sell toothpaste and pet stores sell puppies, they're not appropriate ways to attract people to your shelter or dogs. They play into exactly what shelters and rescues are supposed to avoid - impulse buying, emotional and thoughtless choices, the kind that led to the purchase and subsquent surrender of these same animals. People thinking 'with their heart' is why I hear stories like this: the 28-year-old guy living with his frail grandmother and working 12 hours a day buys a second Rottie after having to euthanize the first for biting grammie; the 35-year-old man who travels constantly for business and has a busy wife with a career insists on buying not one but two Mastiffs; the pregnant girl who adopts a high-strung, one-person lap dog. Everyone thinks with their heart when they go to adopt a dog. The shelters and rescues aren't supposed to encourage that, they're supposed to add common sense, not burble about chocolate treats and kisses.

2) Bitter? Hard? Wow, for a bunch of warm, soft, open people, some of you really know how to talk nasty. It is possible to disagree with someone without being rude and inappropriate. bluezano managed it, for which I thank her.

And I wonder if you have gone back and reread some of your posts to us? I would prefer no rudeness as well. You have doled it out quite often.

[Beanie]

Mmm! This milk chocolate treat acts almost as delicious as she looks! It's hard to take your eyes off this beauty she appears so yummy!

I just have to say, everything else aside... that is downright disturbing. Is this an ad for a dog, or a personals ad? "Mmm?" "Milk chocolate treat?"
I am creeped the heck out.

[Brattina88]

I have never seen an add like that one ^^.
I'd like to see a link - I have the feeling someone is over exaggerating. :p
Maybe I'll be proved wrong?

[StillandSilent]

I have written many different types of bios and have found that people do tend to gravitate towards the ones that are written from the dogs point of view. That doesn't mean to sugar coat it. For example, here is Huberts:
Hi, my name is Hubert!
I am a 1 1/2 year old Pitbull mix. I may have some shepard in me, look at my huge ears. I am good with adults. I like children, but I am a little rowdy and may knock small ones down. I am an alpha male, which means like to be the boss and need to go to a home where I am the only dog, or with a submissive female dog. Absolutly no cats, I think they look tasty. I love to play fetch and will chase a ball for hours. I have no house manners, so my new owner needs to take me to an obedience class so I can learn what is expected of me.
This doesn't apply only to Petfinder. When we do adoptions at Petsmart, it is the same.
Another reason some of the ads sound the same is the volume of dogs that are going though. When you write a thousand or more ads a year, it becomes very difficult to come up with new things to say about them.

[Buddy'sParents]

I have never seen an add like that one ^^.
I'd like to see a link - I have the feeling someone is over exaggerating. :p
Maybe I'll be proved wrong?

*ding ding ding* We have a winner! Brattina you get a milk chocolate bar! But only if you like them. ;)

[Doberluv]

As to the ad writing, it's a basic tool of sales to evoke an emotional response in someone to motivate them to buy. I would classify dogs as an emotional acquisition so it's particularly important to use that tool with them, especially since virtually all of them are adult dogs, not cute little puppies. :hail: :hail: :hail:

Exactly. I've been a real estate marketer, a sales team trainer for a large city's main newspaper and top selling producer during a particular time frame... and this quote is all true. This most certainly is about selling something. It's about the transference of valued thing. And dogs are generally valued things. Whether they're an inanimate object or a living being doesn't change that they are valued by someone. Therefore, it is all about selling. Extreme silliness isn't necessary and might turn some people off. But cuteness in the adds still gives the message while applying to the readers' inner feelings of attachment to animals. They wouldn't be looking at the adds if they didn't have that love of dogs, most likely. I haven't noticed, for the most part anything out of line. I don't read them like a book, but I have seen my share.

Of course, you need to supply accurate information, leaving out one or two points to get the phones to ring. It is not argued here that it's OK to deceive people and not disclose important information about a dog. But writing to sell something to a cold trout isn't what it's about at all. It's about appealing to human beings' senses.....as many senses as possible. And tied to the senses are emotions, which most human beings looking for a dog possess, at least ones with a heart because those without shouldn't even have a dog....shouldn't try to have a relationship with any living thing.

[Beanie]

*ding ding ding* We have a winner! Brattina you get a milk chocolate bar! But only if you like them. ;)

MMMM! A milk chocolate treat!! Almost as delicious as it looks!! LOL


I plain don't look at Petfinder because I'm likely to find a dog I like and I can't have another one right now, so I can't say if I've seen anything like that or not personally. ;> You guys may very well be right.
I've still got the heebie-jeebies just thinking about it, LOL.

[SpringerDog]

Look at ads for singles, cars, houses, even jobs and there must not be a loser date, lemon car, rickety house, or horrific occupation in the entire universe. We all know better than that.

Why date a divorced guy with two kids when you can date a loving father with two adorable children?

Why buy an old car that needs a lot of work when you can purchase a classic auto with a storied history?

Why buy an old house that needs renovations when you can own a historical home with an interesting layout?

Why work as an underpaid clerical person when you can have a career as a personal assistant?

Why would anyone try to adopt out a dog with problems when you can get a sweet dog that needs time and training?

It's that old adage: you get more with honey than vinegar, even if it does give you a toothache.:)

[Brattina88]

*ding ding ding* We have a winner! Brattina you get a milk chocolate bar! But only if you like them. ;)

WooHoo! Yummy!! :p http://zimfamilycockers.com/Forums/images/smiles/PartiCockerAnimation-small.gif

[Melissa_W]

Look at ads for singles, cars, houses, even jobs and there must not be a loser date, lemon car, rickety house, or horrific occupation in the entire universe. We all know better than that.

Why date a divorced guy with two kids when you can date a loving father with two adorable children?

Why buy an old car that needs a lot of work when you can purchase a classic auto with a storied history?

Why buy an old house that needs renovations when you can own a historical home with an interesting layout?

Why work as an underpaid clerical person when you can have a career as a personal assistant?

Why would anyone try to adopt out a dog with problems when you can get a sweet dog that needs time and training?

It's that old adage: you get more with honey than vinegar, even if it does give you a toothache.:)

:hail: Thank you! That was my point exactly!

[LhasaLover]

Yep, beautifully stated!

[Renee750il]

It's important to be honest about the dog's issues. If the dog doesn't like other dogs, SAY it. Wanting "all the love to herself" is just sugarcoating dog aggression. I think it's perfectly fine to say that the dog needs work. People shouldn't expect to acquire a robot.

One of my favorite adoption bios was for a Great Dane named Niles. It said, "Niles wants to be your ONLY dog" accompanied by a very dignified and stern photo . . . It got the point across, lol!

[Boemy]

I can see both points of view . . . On the one hand, a shelter wants to get their dogs adopted and appealing to emotions is the most effective way to do that. Part of it is getting people to look at a dog as an individual with feelings instead of just a "thing" like a vacuum cleaner. On the other hand, yes, some ads work so hard to hype up the positive that they gloss over the negative, and that's not acceptable. Problems like dog aggression, high prey drive, snappishness towards strangers, etc, should always be stated flat out.

I don't mind cuteness, though, as long as the facts are presented.

This ad is fine:

Hello, my name is Iris and I am such a beautiful girl, and so very well mannered. You won't even notice this, but I only have three legs! Yep, I lost my rear leg in a skydiving accident. Oh, I'm just kidding. I don't take things too seriously, and I get around just fine without that leg. I am housebroken and good with kids other dogs. I don't do well with cats or other small animals, though. I know sit, stay and lay down and my favorite game is tug-o-war. I am active, friendly and playful, and fun, fun, fun!

This one is even better:

Mary is a three year old Labrador Retriever mix. She is a very sweet girl who just loves people. She is easy to handle and is gentle, calm and relaxed around her human friends. Mary already knows how to sit on command and she does like other dogs but she prefers them to be submissive as she wants to be the boss. Mary is a mature dog and does like people very much. She will make a great companion for that special person. She likes to go for rides and for walks but also would love to be a couch potato. Mary does love to talk to her human friends and would also like some space to roam as well. She is a fabulous dog that is just looking for that special someone, is that you? She sure hopes so.... Mary is a member of the Lonely Hearts Club and her adoption fee is only $32.50. She has also been micro chipped.

[PWCorgi]

You won't even notice this, but I only have three legs! Yep, I lost my rear leg in a skydiving accident. Oh, I'm just kidding. I don't take things too seriously, and I get around just fine without that leg.

ROFL :D I love it!

[Aussie Red]

The thing is it is all designed to get you to come to the shelter in the first place. If you did not see ads how many would actually go ?? Once you are there to look at the animal they advertised you may find that is not the exact one for you and look around and wow there is your heart dog just waiting for you. Lighten up on the ads folks it is working and dogs are getting homes. If mooshey sqooshy gets you down there where is that wrong. And dah ask questions before committing I am sure they are truthful about that. I personally applaud them for doing what ever it takes to get people to come in and at least look before supporting yet another byb.

[Herschel]

I'm not gushy at all and I also get a little bit repulsed by the "lolzzzz" Petfinder listings.

However, I really appreciate well written listings from the dogs point of view. ToscasMom writes posts like that from time to time and, if written correctly, I think its a great way to convey the observed nature of the dog.

[wookie130]

I guess I've never given this ad thing a thought, one way or another.

So apparently the cutesy ads don't bug me too much.

I've always just looked at it as a way to reel people in and spark some interest, and if the people actually go to visit the animal in person, they can get the real scoop from the shelter staff from a more accurate standpoint.

With what the rescues and shelters deal with on a daily basis, I'd try the cutesy thing too, if it worked...

I don't see what the deal is here. If you don't like an ad, but like the looks of a dog, just go to the freakin' shelter, and get the real low-down. :p

[casablanca1]

I have never seen an add like that one ^^.
I'd like to see a link - I have the feeling someone is over exaggerating. :p
Maybe I'll be proved wrong?

*ding ding ding* We have a winner! Brattina you get a milk chocolate bar! But only if you like them. ;)

WooHoo! Yummy!! :p http://zimfamilycockers.com/Forums/images/smiles/PartiCockerAnimation-small.gif

That's an embarassing exchange.

[Momof2Pups]

You really always have to find something to be critical about, don't you?

[casablanca1]

It would be more accurate to say I have a hard time taking an insult lying down. Thank you for the interest in the inner workings of my mind, however. I will return the favor by saying you are evidently a person who cannot let an opportunity for pointless invective pass you by.

[Momof2Pups]

Right when I saw you replied I knew you would flip over what I said and turn it in to an insult at me. I'm not going to be in a pissy fight. Have a great day.

[Brattina88]

That's an embarassing exchange.
...
It would be more accurate to say I have a hard time taking an insult lying down. Thank you for the interest in the inner workings of my mind, however. I will return the favor by saying you are evidently a person who cannot let an opportunity for pointless invective pass you by.


First of all, its spelled embarrassing :o
http://zimfamilycockers.com/Forums/images/smiles/bs.gif
I hope you are not implying that I was insulting you. The only one insulting you is you every time you post critically or negatively about simple things that do not need to be over analyzed

Where is the link? You don't have it? Imagine that.

[casablanca1]

I wasn't implying anything - your post made it abundantly clear that you were insulting me. My comment was on the unseemliness of two grown women swapping childish jokes about candy bars in lieu of making a contribution to a conversation. But now I see that you don't understand why anyone thinks critically, so that's partly explained.

[Momof2Pups]

LOL. Are you talking to me or Brattina?

[casablanca1]

LOLLOLOLOLOLlL... Now that we've both contributed to the inane drivel quotient: I was talking to brat. You may notice that everything I said was about something she'd written, and none of it applies to your earlier post.

[tessa_s212]

I have to agree with the OP. I can't stand the gushiness and outright lies in some of these petfinder descriptions. I don't want some bull fed to me. I want the truth. If the dog is aggressive towards men, SAY it. Don't feed me a bunch of mushy, cute crap to try and hide it. Afterall, you SHOULD want a person that knows what they are doing and knows to expect the aggression over some idiot that wouldn't have a clue how to address this dog's aggression problems. That right there is asking the dog to just go and bite someone.

As a temperament tester that writes all of the dog's personality profiles at the humane society, sugar coat and attempt to hide personality and behavioral flaws is one thing I will NEVER do. In the end, it is only going to get someone hurt, whether that be person, dog, or both.

[Buddy'sParents]

That's an embarassing exchange.

I'm terribly sorry that you are embarrassed by your inability to provide factual evidence to support your "rant".

[Doberluv]

This so called, "gushiness" DOES NOT HAVE TO COVER UP THE FACTS. Of course, they shouldn't keep pertinent information from people. DUH! There is such a thing as writing an ad which IS informative, leaving out only enough information to get people to walk through the door (you never give every bit of information in an ad) AND be appealing enough to the emotions of the majority of human beings that they spike interest. (most people aren't cold as trout) People don't get dogs because they are unloving, uncaring, unemotional people...most people anyway. Some get them for strange reasons, I guess or strictly for working dogs.

Having feelings and emotions is what most pet owners have. So, to write only cold, hard facts isn't as likely to reach most people. And most advertisers and sales people know this. You don't have to leave out information just because you write a cute ad. And it doesn't have to be overly silly or "gushy." And I don't think most are. JMO.

[casablanca1]

I'm terribly sorry that you are embarrassed by your inability to provide factual evidence to support your "rant".

I'm curious. Why do you think that you have no responsibility to either contribute to a conversation or stay off a thread that's clearly intended to be a debate? There are plenty of places on Chaz where you can go to be silly and goofy and post photos and exchange personal stories - and, I suppose, call people liars and exchange internet candy bars with much emoticoning. Why do you come to forums intended for less personal conversations and debate and attempt to turn them into these LOL-fests where there is no conversation possible?

[adoptashelterpettoday]

It's just sad that you feel that way.


I write bios for my fosters too and yeah I do write good things because I actually do think they are terrific animals. I do put flaws as well, because I want them to get the perfect home.

Most of the bios I have seen have all been truthful and include flaws.

I dont know why you felt it was nessesary to insult rescuers because the bios are "too mushy". Some of these dogs too have a very short amount of time before euthanasia, so you do have to be "mushy" to find them a home. You have to make them stand out and you do that by telling their good traits.

I have never heard anyone complain about dogs on petfinder having nice, positive bios??


I dont know why any human aggressive dog would be posted on PF???? Especially not labeled aggressive? I would question that rescue's integrity to be honest.

[Ladychaos]

I dont see anything wrong with putting a little mush into it. People just really care to show the true personality of the dog. I personally enjoy a little creativity, it makes the page unique thus making the dog standout more. I would rather read a long long bio with mush in it. Then read oh yeah he is vaccinated and likes dogs, and cats. It makes the ad feel sort of cold and uncaring. I know sometimes you have to distance yourself from being overzealous so you don't scare people away. But over the internet when you have no face to face a little personality behind the text may help. I do agree some people go overboard. But lots of people go overboard not just about the dog their adopting out.

[Buddy'sParents]

I'm curious. Why do you think that you have no responsibility to either contribute to a conversation or stay off a thread that's clearly intended to be a debate? There are plenty of places on Chaz where you can go to be silly and goofy and post photos and exchange personal stories - and, I suppose, call people liars and exchange internet candy bars with much emoticoning. Why do you come to forums intended for less personal conversations and debate and attempt to turn them into these LOL-fests where there is no conversation possible?

I'm curious. Are you capable of having feelings other than sheer disdain for the world and every single living being in it? Why come to dog forum -such as Chazhound- and force yourself to be amongst those who love and cherish animals? Why put yourself in a position to hear about sweet pit bulls, gushy petfinder ads that find loving dogs permanent forever homes and just general warm fuzzies that radiate from the forums as people tell stories of their dogs? I mean, really, why do this to yourself when you are obviously so very unhappy with life and all that it entails.

Wait.

Don't answer. I already know all that I need to know.

The only reason why there is no "conversation possible" is because there are some thoughts that you may be exaggerating and did not -for whatever reason- provide proof of your wild claims of "gushing". My- how dare the world be so warm and fuzzy when there are people like you incapable of feeling such. Such a shame.

And, hell, laughing is good for the soul, you should try it sometime.

[shadowfacedanes]

This so called, "gushiness" DOES NOT HAVE TO COVER UP THE FACTS. Of course, they shouldn't keep pertinent information from people. DUH! There is such a thing as writing an ad which IS informative, leaving out only enough information to get people to walk through the door (you never give every bit of information in an ad) AND be appealing enough to the emotions of the majority of human beings that they spike interest. (most people aren't cold as trout) People don't get dogs because they are unloving, uncaring, unemotional people...most people anyway. Some get them for strange reasons, I guess or strictly for working dogs.

Having feelings and emotions is what most pet owners have. So, to write only cold, hard facts isn't as likely to reach most people. And most advertisers and sales people know this. You don't have to leave out information just because you write a cute ad. And it doesn't have to be overly silly or "gushy." And I don't think most are. JMO.


Just wanted to give this a round of applause.

Casa, you're missing a HUGE point here....

Petfinder is not an online transaction - you meet the dog via the internet and their ad. THEN you begin a relationship with the rescue group, who will then interview you and determine whether the dog is the right match for you or not. It's not like the dog is picked out, paid for and arrives in the mail with no conversation between rescue worker and adopter. The ad you see online is only to attract your attention to said pet, or perhaps even the organization as a whole. I always disclose EVERYTHING about an adoptee before they go to their new home....lest I get bitten in the butt and have the pet come back to me weeks or months later because it wasn't a perfect match. Perhaps you're unfamiliar with rescue work? I'd be happy to walk you through how it works.

When people have seen the same animal sit in a shelter or foster care for months on end, they tend to become creative in attracting attention to that pet. There is nothing wrong with that, unless of course you'd just prefer the animal be PTS so you don't have to view cute ads.

[Momof2Pups]

Just wanted to give this a round of applause.

Casa, you're missing a HUGE point here....

Petfinder is not an online transaction - you meet the dog via the internet and their ad. THEN you begin a relationship with the rescue group, who will then interview you and determine whether the dog is the right match for you or not. It's not like the dog is picked out, paid for and arrives in the mail with no conversation between rescue worker and adopter. The ad you see online is only to attract your attention to said pet, or perhaps even the organization as a whole. I always disclose EVERYTHING about an adoptee before they go to their new home....lest I get bitten in the butt and have the pet come back to me weeks or months later because it wasn't a perfect match. Perhaps you're unfamiliar with rescue work? I'd be happy to walk you through how it works.

When people have seen the same animal sit in a shelter or foster care for months on end, they tend to become creative in attracting attention to that pet. There is nothing wrong with that, unless of course you'd just prefer the animal be PTS so you don't have to view cute ads.

If this is all it takes to bother you, I suggest you talk to someone about getting that stick removed.


*applause*

[Aussie Red]

I guess this is why I choose to rescue dogs and help out anyway I can because they do appreciate it. Imagine how I would feel bring you some food because you were hungry only to be met with disdain and scarcasim ?? Anyway animals are where my money goes people I leave to figure it out on their own.

[jess2416]

I think its sad, no I take that back, I think its pathetic that someone actually had the time to pick on petfinder ads...good lord get over it already...:rolleyes:

[Dizzy]

1) The ends don't justify the means. Marketing and emotional manipulation are how ad execs sell toothpaste and pet stores sell puppies, they're not appropriate ways to attract people to your shelter or dogs. They play into exactly what shelters and rescues are supposed to avoid - impulse buying, emotional and thoughtless choices, the kind that led to the purchase and subsquent surrender of these same animals. People thinking 'with their heart' is why I hear stories like this: the 28-year-old guy living with his frail grandmother and working 12 hours a day buys a second Rottie after having to euthanize the first for biting grammie; the 35-year-old man who travels constantly for business and has a busy wife with a career insists on buying not one but two Mastiffs; the pregnant girl who adopts a high-strung, one-person lap dog. Everyone thinks with their heart when they go to adopt a dog. The shelters and rescues aren't supposed to encourage that, they're supposed to add common sense, not burble about chocolate treats and kisses.



I actually think this is a VERY good point.

[~Jessie~]

Just wanted to give this a round of applause.

Casa, you're missing a HUGE point here....

Petfinder is not an online transaction - you meet the dog via the internet and their ad. THEN you begin a relationship with the rescue group, who will then interview you and determine whether the dog is the right match for you or not. It's not like the dog is picked out, paid for and arrives in the mail with no conversation between rescue worker and adopter. The ad you see online is only to attract your attention to said pet, or perhaps even the organization as a whole. I always disclose EVERYTHING about an adoptee before they go to their new home....lest I get bitten in the butt and have the pet come back to me weeks or months later because it wasn't a perfect match. Perhaps you're unfamiliar with rescue work? I'd be happy to walk you through how it works.

When people have seen the same animal sit in a shelter or foster care for months on end, they tend to become creative in attracting attention to that pet. There is nothing wrong with that, unless of course you'd just prefer the animal be PTS so you don't have to view cute ads.

:hail: :hail: :hail:

Completely agree.

[Doberluv]

Quote:
Originally Posted by shadowfacedanes
Just wanted to give this a round of applause.

Casa, you're missing a HUGE point here....

Petfinder is not an online transaction - you meet the dog via the internet and their ad. THEN you begin a relationship with the rescue group, who will then interview you and determine whether the dog is the right match for you or not. It's not like the dog is picked out, paid for and arrives in the mail with no conversation between rescue worker and adopter. The ad you see online is only to attract your attention to said pet, or perhaps even the organization as a whole. I always disclose EVERYTHING about an adoptee before they go to their new home....lest I get bitten in the butt and have the pet come back to me weeks or months later because it wasn't a perfect match. Perhaps you're unfamiliar with rescue work? I'd be happy to walk you through how it works.

When people have seen the same animal sit in a shelter or foster care for months on end, they tend to become creative in attracting attention to that pet. There is nothing wrong with that, unless of course you'd just prefer the animal be PTS so you don't have to view cute ads.



Completely agree.

Completely agree with Jessie who completely agrees with Shadowfacedanes.

Adds are only to get people to inquire. That's just the first itsy bitsy step in the whole big process.

[shadowfacedanes]

Isn't it funny how Casa always makes these inflammatory comments and then disappears from the thread once everyone is stirred up? I'm still waiting to find out why I am "slightly blind" from another thread - if someone is going to have the gall to insult other people, the least they could do is back it up with explanation or, God Forbid, a fact.

Casa NEVER answers the real questions.....just runs with her tail tucked when she's called out.

Bravo, Casa, Bravo. :rolleyes:

[Aussie Red]

Isn't it funny how Casa always makes these inflammatory comments and then disappears from the thread once everyone is stirred up? I'm still waiting to find out why I am "slightly blind" from another thread - if someone is going to have the gall to insult other people, the least they could do is back it up with explanation or, God Forbid, a fact.

Casa NEVER answers the real questions.....just runs with her tail tucked when she's called out.

Bravo, Casa, Bravo. :rolleyes: Funny thing I have been noticing that too. Seems like noting is ever said to anyone in a nice tone and that is why in the beginning when she asked why she was being insulted and rude I asked if she ever took the time to read what she says. Glad I am not the only one who sees that she does this.

[Buddy'sParents]

Good eye, ladies, good eye. ;)

[Brattina88]

Yup. Still waiting on that link. Guess its a good thing I'm not holding my breath :o

[Aussie Red]

Yup. Still waiting on that link. Guess its a good thing I'm not holding my breath :o

Oh now isn't that ashame you would have been such a pretty shade of blue right now too. lol

[casablanca1]

Here's the thing. If I don't respond to you after a certain point, you're on my ignore list. I sometimes click the 'read' button to view your latest post anyway (which is why I'm responding to 3 people I have on ignore) but in general, I don't. My ignore list is composed of people who clearly are uncomfortable with debate (well, those who are not moderators, as the system won't allow you to 'ignore' a moderator) as I've found that they respond with inappropriate aggression to most of my posts. I believe people can disagree and argue without using personal insults and slurs - they do not. Hence the 'tail between the legs' kind of comment.

[Gustav]

To be honest.. I don't care if someone were to call my dog a "Cutsey, wootsey.. Bundle of joy, who loves everyone" If it was to get him a good home in the case of my demise..

It obviously got your attention Casa... Even if it does annoy you.. You looked, took note, and remarked. That is half the battle in pet placement, getting someone to notice the pets. ;)

If it just said.. Dog, doesn't bite.. Won't poop on your carpet.. Would you really retain that? No, you'd just move onto the next cute pup that needed a home.

It's all a case of marketing.. Like those annoying adverts on the telly that have you singing the jingle to yourself when you see the products in the supermarket.

[casablanca1]

But does emotional blackmail advertising get your dog a home? Or does it get a lot of attention, and not much serious interest? Plenty of ad campaigns have gotten huge attention and audiences during the Super Bowl, but then didn't give their companies any added boost in sales. Best case scenario, as someone said, is that people call in about the dogs and get brushed off because the shelter/rescue knows what they didn't say and is screening after the fact, thus putting off enthusiastic adopters who feel they were misled. Worst case scenario, the shelter simply hands over the dog without decent screening.

[Gustav]

Ahh, but for everyone that doesn't ring, there is someone who does.. ;)

If it makes me naive to think that these adverts do actually help dogs get placed, then as they say.. Ignorance is bliss..

I quite like the upbeat tone on rescue sites.. I am glad to see that people who work with even the worst of cruelty cases, can be upbeat, and chirpy enough to write positive blurbs for the animals... It really can't be all that easy.

[Charliesmommy]

OMG. Is this arguement seriously still going on?

[jess2416]

OMG. Is this arguement seriously still going on?

Its not an argument its a debate:rolleyes: ;)

[Gustav]

Its not an argument its a debate:rolleyes: ;)

*snorts* I knew I could count on you Jess!

You're quality with a capital Q! ;)

[daaqa]

Why date a divorced guy with two kids when you can date a loving father with two adorable children?

Why buy an old car that needs a lot of work when you can purchase a classic auto with a storied history?

Why buy an old house that needs renovations when you can own a historical home with an interesting layout?

Why work as an underpaid clerical person when you can have a career as a personal assistant?

Why would anyone try to adopt out a dog with problems when you can get a sweet dog that needs time and training?

It's that old adage: you get more with honey than vinegar, even if it does give you a toothache.:)

sorry to jump in on a dying thread, but i've been away. anyway, i'd have to say i agree with this. i am not "sappy/mushy" and find some of the "sweet widdle fing" baby talk to be overboard. HOWEVER, despite my more clinical taste, i have to admit that i am more likely to pay attention to a shelter that seems to love animals, rather than treating them like livestock.
i think shelters are desparately trying to kill the thought that rescue dogs aren't worthwhile. breeders and pet stores "cutesy" dogs to a ridiculous extent, and shelters have that to compete with on top of all the bias against them -- especially with adult dogs! they are fighting the way that people write off these animals as less than important.
as far as i have seen, most shelters have a strict process for matching dogs with people or at least screening out aggressive dogs or bad owners. as someone else said, if we could at least get people out to shelters to meet these dogs, half the battle is won.
with millions of dogs being pts every year, i say milk the cuteness!

[Brattina88]

But does emotional blackmail advertising get your dog a home? Or does it get a lot of attention, and not much serious interest? Plenty of ad campaigns have gotten huge attention and audiences during the Super Bowl, but then didn't give their companies any added boost in sales. .. .. ...

It gets attention. That's the whole point of the mushy-gushy petfinder ads ;)
My theory is that it must work, because people keep on doing it. And typically, people do what works :p

And its hard for me to compare petfinder ads to super bowl comercials. Unless people are crazy/obsessed like most of us here on Chaz (LOL) When they get on petfinder they are already considering, or are actually looking for a pet to adopt. ;) Meeting the dog/s and filling out the applications are the more important aspect . . .
As always, thats just MHO