Review: Dogtown: A Series With a Heart

There is something about the "Dogtown" series, aired weekly on National Graphic TV, which I find to be incredibly moving and compelling. I look forward to each new weekly episode which features individual heartwarming stories about "unadoptable" dogs rescued from horrendous circumstances and caringly rehabilitated so they may hopefully have a second chance at finding a new and forever loving home.

Some of these dogs were a group of Pit Bulls rescued from Michael Vick's dog fighting establishment. Some were dogs lost or abandoned during hurricanes and other natural disasters and some are just strays, roaming city streets in desperate need of food, shelter and medical care. Some were dogs languishing in animal shelters, scheduled for euthanasia, deemed unadoptable due to advanced age, or unacceptable behavioral issues. Dogtown's mission is to "protect and serve our animal friends, including pets of all sorts."

During the hour show, which goes by all too quickly, not only do we get to meet some of the wonderful canine residents, we are also able to observe their progress. I am always highly impressed with the methods the trainers use which patiently reestablishes trust in humans.. Each dog is individually assessed and handled with the goal of placement in a permanent home when the dog is ready. Those dogs which are emotionally damaged too deeply to be safely placed will of course have a forever home at Dogtown.

Viewers will get deeply involved in the material presented. You will laugh, you will cry and you will get downright angry at times. I highly recommend this series, not only for dog lovers, but for anyone who is passionate about animals and who cares about their welfare. I highly recommend the Dogtown series.

Friday, May 1 is the third episode in the series. The show features Chico, a Border Collie Mix with strong prey drive. Trainer John Garcia takes on a highly challenging project with this unpredictable dog.

Airtime is Friday Nights 10:00 PM EDT. Check your schedules for local broadcasting times.

Read more about the show at: http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/series/dogtown/all/Overview and http://www.bestfriends.org/dogtown/

If you miss an episode you can catch up at http://www.bestfriends.org/dogtown/index.cfm?csid=2759&csii=3725&csit=Set

Watch clips of the show at: http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/series/dogtown/4099/Overview?source=link_bfs_20#tab-Videos/06594_00

Has my description of the show inspired you to watch? Leave a comment and let us know.