City of Santa Rosa Animal Control: Dog Enrichment Grant Report
How did this grant help your organization and the pets in your care?
The Petfinder Foundation Dog Enrichment Grant has had a significant positive impact on both our organization and the dogs in our care. With the funding, we were able to purchase durable dog toys, frozen-treat-dispensing toys, outdoor raised dog beds, bowls and storage supplies, and agility equipment including a tunnel and seesaw.
These enrichment items have greatly improved the daily quality of life for the dogs in our facility. The durable toys and treat-dispensing toys have helped to reduce kennel stress, boredom, and kennel anxiety while encouraging healthy mental stimulation and natural behaviors. The agility equipment has provided additional opportunities for exercise, confidence-building, and positive interaction with staff. The raised outdoor beds have improved comfort during play time, while the additional bowls and storage have helped us stay better organized and improve daily care routines.
As a small rural organization with limited resources, this grant allowed us to provide enrichment opportunities that would otherwise have been difficult to obtain within our operating budget. The improvements made possible through this funding have enhanced animal welfare at our facility and helped create a healthier, more stimulating environment for the pets we serve.
How many pets did this grant help?
60
Please provide a story of one or more specific pets this grant helped.
Oso (first photo) was a nervous dog who struggled with fear and anxiety around both people and other dogs when he first arrived to our facility. He would often hide in his kennel, would bark/howl frequently, and had difficulty relaxing in his kennel.
After receiving the enrichment items, staff began incorporating the toys and supervised play with agility equipment into his daily routine. The enrichment items have helped keep him mentally engaged and provided comfort and positive stimulation. As he has become more comfortable, he started showing interest in people and other dogs and has gained confidence. These items have encouraged him to explore, build trust, and engage in positive social behaviors.
Today, he is much more outgoing, playful, and comfortable in the shelter environment. He now enjoys playing with toys, interacting with staff, and playing with other dogs. These enrichment items made a meaningful difference in his emotional well-being and greatly improved his adoptability.
