Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter: Dog Enrichment Grant Report
How did this grant help your organization and the pets in your care?
The grant received from the Petfinder Foundation was used to address a long-standing drainage issue in the shelter’s outdoor play yards by fixing the grading of the yard. Prior to the improvements, poor grading caused water to collect and pool in several areas, creating muddy, unsanitary conditions that limited the dogs’ ability to enjoy time outside — especially after rain and snow. This not only disrupted enrichment and exercise routines but also prevented us from doing meet-and-greets with potential adopters and dogs that were currently in the home, which is a required step in the adoption process.
By regrading the yard, water now flows properly away from the play areas, significantly reducing standing water and preventing mud buildup. This improvement has made the outdoor spaces more accessible and usable year-round. Dogs now have a clean, dry environment where they can safely run, play, and engage in essential physical and mental stimulation, which supports both their health and adoptability.
For staff and volunteers, the improved drainage means less time spent cleaning up muddy dogs and gear and more time focused on quality interactions and care. It also reduces slip hazards and the physical strain that came with managing the previous conditions. Thanks to the support from the Petfinder Foundation, the play yards are now safer, cleaner, and more functional for everyone involved.
The changes have also led to aesthetic improvements. There is sod surrounding the exterior of the play yard, and with proper drainage, grass has begun growing back in the bare patches that had previously been worn down by water and mud. The result is not only a more functional space, but also a more attractive and welcoming one for visitors, staff, and volunteers.
How many pets did this grant help?
300
Please provide a story of one or more specific pets this grant helped.
Scar, a young bully-breed mix, arrived at Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter from an overcrowded municipal facility. As a stray, he bore physical scars along his back, likely from crawling under fencing. Though energetic and eager to please, Scar was repeatedly overlooked due to his breed, high energy level, and behavioral needs.
At just 5 months old, Scar began weekly training under the guidance of our certified dog trainer. He quickly impressed with his focus, intelligence, and eagerness to learn. His trainers even noted he might have the potential to become a service dog, possibly for a veteran, given his responsiveness to task-based commands. However, his progress would require more than just weekly sessions — it would take consistency, structure, and time.
The outdoor play yard became a vital part of Scar’s development; he began spending a great deal of time there, burning off his excess energy through active play, working on commands, and participating in structured walks. The yard gave him the freedom to run, learn, and decompress — essential elements for a young dog with his energy and potential.
When a potential adopter expressed interest in Scar, we knew it was critical to ensure the match was right. We asked the adopter to take the time to really get to know him. The play yard again became an essential tool in this next phase. Over the course of several weeks, the adopter visited the shelter every few days to build trust and familiarity. They joined training sessions and spent time with Scar in the yard — playing, practicing commands, and observing his behaviors in an open, low-stress setting. This hands-on experience helped the adopter gain a deep understanding of Scar’s needs and how to support his continued growth.
The adopter’s commitment never wavered. They finalized the adoption and will be bringing Scar home in August. They’ve also committed to continuing his training, ensuring he has the structure and support he needs to thrive. Scar’s story is one of resilience, growth, and the power of patience — and thanks to the improved play yard, consistent training, and a compassionate adopter, he’s finally getting the second chance he deserves.
