SPCA of Texas: KONG Toys Grant Report

How did this grant help your organization and the pets in your care?

The Kong toys got some heavy usage by the dogs in our shelter. Some dogs waiting for adoption played with/chewed on the toys and others who needed behavior modification played with the toys during behavior sessions -- the behaviorists used the toys as rewards for the dogs when they behaved as expected.

The Kong toys helped tremendously. We rely heavily on donations so we can provide veterinary care, shelter, and food, and meet other needs the pets in our care have. Toys are a huge need and the Kong toys filled that need. They are so durable that we were able to clean and reuse them for many dogs.

How many pets did this grant help?

200

Please provide a story of one or more specific pets this grant helped.

Dakota was a rescue. He, along with another dog, were removed from a Dallas apartment in early March. The dogs were found confined to separate crates inside of the unit. Both crates were covered with dried feces. Neither of the dogs had access to food or water, and both appeared to be severely underweight.

Dakota was emaciated and covered in urine and feces. Once he was with us, he received constant care. We were pretty worried about him during those first few days. Our veterinarians and veterinary technicians worked for weeks to restore Dakota back to health, and when he was medically ready, the behaviorists took over.

He had major trust issues and was afraid of people. The behaviorists worked with Dakota using Kong toys and other items to get Dakota to trust humans. With the help of the staff and the Kong toys, Dakota became a happy, healthy dog. He’s lovable, sweet, and super-smart too. He knows sit, down, shake and he loves his toys! Dakota has found his forever home, as has the dog he was rescued with.