Common Sense Media Review
By Andrea Beach
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Uplifting but emotionally intense dog-rescue/rehab docu.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 11+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Second Chance Dogs
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
SECOND CHANCE DOGS goes behind the scenes at the ASPCA's Behavioral Rehabilitation Center in New Jersey, following six rescued dogs that weren't adoptable because they were too fearful and/or hadn't been socialized, and would otherwise have been put down. By carefully and patiently applying proven training techniques, and following scientific methods to monitor and track progress, the Center has been able to rehabilitate dogs that have known nothing but cruelty and hardship, ultimately placing the vast majority in loving "forever" homes.
Is It Any Good?
Heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time, this Animal Planet documentary shows how dogs that were labeled "unadoptable" can become loving family members. Second Chance Dogs doesn't shy away from describing the problems and cruelties endured by breeding dogs in puppy mills, and even by dogs in "hoarding" situations where there can be over 100 dogs crowded together in one small home. Sensitive kids (and adults) may need reassurance and to think of ways they can help, too. But the ultimate takeaway is uplifting, and viewers will be left with a real sense of admiration for the people dedicated to helping these dogs, and for the dogs themselves.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about why Second Chance Dogs shows and talks about dogs suffering from cruel treatment. It's sad to think about, but what can we do to help?
How do you think people should go about adopting dogs? Should they go to pet stores, or to an animal shelter? Why?
Why do you think dogs make great pets? If you've never had a dog, have you read about or seen one in movies or TV that you especially like? Why?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : April 1, 2016
- Cast : Kristen Collins
- Director : Kenn Bell
- Studios : ASPCA , DogFiles
- Genre : Documentary
- Topics : Animals , STEM
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Perseverance
- Run time : 56 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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