Second Chance Dogs
Common Sense is a nonprofit organization. Your purchase helps us remain independent and ad-free.
Second Chance Dogs
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
Suggest an Update
A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Second Chance Dogs is a documentary originally shown on Animal Planet in April, 2016. Graphic, newsreel-type footage of dog rescues repeatedly show and discuss inhumane and cruel conditions some dogs endure. This is difficult for viewers of any age to see, and may cause lingering distress to sensitive kids. The overall takeaway is upbeat with positive messages about how dogs deserve a happy life, and how carefully applying scientific methods and a lot of patience and care can help even the most fearful dogs become loving family members. Great role models implementing a showcase program for rehabilitating dogs that would otherwise be put down hope to inspire other communities to do the same.
Community Reviews
There aren't any reviews yet. Be the first to review this title.
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: Cats, Dogs, and Mice, Science and Nature
- Character Strengths: Compassion, Perseverance
- Run time: 56 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: September 20, 2019
Our Editors Recommend
-
Hachi: A Dog's Tale
Dramatic story of a dog's devotion is emotionally intense.
-
Lucky Dog
Animal rehabilitation tales are inspiring for families.
-
Because of Winn-Dixie
A girl and a dog educate a small southern town.
For kids who love animals
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate