Little Victories Animal Rescue Group: KONG Toys Grant Report

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

KONG toys provide an invaluable support to the dogs in our care at Little Victories Animal Rescue. We are a low-intake, high-enrichment shelter and we prioritize the mental and physical health of our animals every day. Our goal is to fulfill all of their needs to help them be as ready for a more permanent home as possible.

KONGs are essential to that goal, as each dog receives designated in-kennel enrichment each day. This grant helped make sure all 55 dogs in our care can stimulate their minds and their natural desire to chew, helping ease the anxiety of shelter days. Twice a week, these toys are refilled and distributed among our population, allowing them to stay calm, quiet, and stress-free.

How many pets did this grant help?

100

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

Mazeleigh’s story is a meaningful example of the impact this grant had on our dogs.

Mazeleigh was young, shy, and deeply unsettled when she was returned to the shelter after being adopted as a pup. The sudden change caused her to regress into behaviors she had previously overcome: making messes in her kennel, reacting to the dogs around her, and losing weight from stress.

Enrichment became a turning point for her. With access to KONG toys, Mazeleigh could redirect her anxiety into something soothing and rewarding. Instead of pacing, barking, or stressing in her kennel, she could settle in with a stuffed or frozen KONG and find a moment of peace. For a portion of her day, she was able to relax and reset.

Shortly after we received this grant, Mazeleigh was adopted by a family that absolutely adores her. The comfort and calm she found during enrichment helped her show her true personality, and ultimately helped her get the second chance she deserved.