Animal Care Centers of NYC: Dog Enrichment Grant Report
How did this grant help your organization and the pets in your care?
Like many shelters across the country in recent years, Animal Care Centers of NYC has seen an increase in surrendered and abandoned animals. Well over 60% of the homeless dogs who enter our shelters are 40 lbs. and larger, and it can be challenging to place big dogs with adopters in NYC. The average length of stay for large dogs can sometimes exceed 30 days. Canine enrichment is crucial for keeping dogs in the shelter physically and mentally healthy, and is especially important for those long-stay dogs.
Thanks to the Petfinder Foundation, ACC’s canine enrichment program was able to purchase a large supply of healthy training treats, long-lasting chews, and soft stuffed toys, all items that need to be frequently replenished and replaced, as we have an average of over 300 new canine intakes monthly across our shelters in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Staten Island.
Fun-filled play times and training sessions with our staff and volunteers help to relieve the stress and anxiety of shelter life and make the dogs eager to meet new people, leading to successful adoptions and foster placements. Having soft toys to cuddle in their kennels and learning to “sit” and “wave hello” for delicious treats builds resilience, gives comfort, and offers hope.
How many pets did this grant help?
125
Please provide a story of one or more specific pets this grant helped.
These four dogs have been at ACC for a month or more. Canine enrichment enables our staff and volunteers to learn more about them with every interaction as we work to find them forever homes.
Pookie (first photo) is a staff favorite with a sunny personality. She is making progress in walking politely on leash without pulling her companion to the first comfortable spot to sit down. Meet Pookie here.
Brunson (second photo) is an outgoing and clever 1-year-old dog who is particularly fond of stuffed toys. Meet Brunson here.
Falafel (third photo) is 3 years old, energetic and funny. She enjoys walks and loves chasing a ball in the play yard. Meet Falafel here.
Pat (fourth photo) is a snuggly and affectionate young dog. He is deaf, likely from birth, and has quickly learned to respond to hand signals and light taps to get his attention. Meet Pat here.
