Is it cruel for a dog/cat/other smaller animal to live outside?
Since you ask specifically “Why is the ASPCA so picky…” I checked their website. They have an article written by Jacque Lynn Schultz, CPDT, Companion Animal Programs Advisor, ASPCA National Shelter Outreach, that concerns just this issue. (See the link below). I grew up on a farm and our farm dogs were always outdoor dogs, but my father and the helpers were always outside with them, all day, everyday. The dogs got plenty of exercise, were well trained and knew their boundaries, and had work to do. I belive the ASPCA’s concern is this pack animal may not get enough human interaction. So if they have refused to let you adopt a dog because you will keep it outside, it will be up to you to convince them you do have the resources and time for that critical human interaction. Invite them to your home to see their living situation, to see that they are not confined and chained, and meet your other dogs to see how well behaved and social they are. Perhaps even a note from your vet asserting
