In 2009, STLRR implemented a new special program "Save the Young: Train for life" dedicated to the rescue of young untrained Labradors. The program was created in response to the sad reality that often we cannot save young Labradors (typically less than 2 year old) because they need proper training which cannot be financed by the daily operational budget of the rescue. These youngsters are most of the time rowdy and not adapted to family life because theri owners have not taken the time to properly train them. The typical situation is teh Christmas puppy gift: cute adorable puppy that grows up without appropriate training and less than one year later is abandoned at the high-kill shelter for "behavioral problems".

The Labrador Retriever is one terrific family dog -- given enough exercise (preferably including swimming and fetching games) and not just a walk around the block once a day. Too much confinement, not enough exercise and lack of obedience training can lead to rambunctiousness and destructive chewing.

We recognize that these young untrainded Labradors need dedicated obedinece training, which will allow them to become model pet citizens, and that withouth it we will only perpetrate an unsuccessful situation.

In 2010, in recognition of our committment to training, the Save the Young program's activities were partially supported through a Community-based grant program from the Union Pacific Foundation.

Here are some of the Labs that we were able to rescue and rehome through to this special Program.