Over 1,900 dogs have come to Dane County Humane Society (DCHS) so far in 2018 in need of care and compassion. Our Canine Behavior Team staff and volunteers work hard to ensure that dogs living at our shelter stay active and mentally stimulated while they wait for a loving home. Dogs in our care are offered over a dozen enrichment activities, such as puzzle toys and treat boxes, yard time, walks outside, quiet cuddle time, behavior training and our dog playgroup program.
Started in 2018, our dog playgroup program is a favorite for staff, volunteers and dogs alike! Currently we are able to offer playgroup 4 days a week for 2 hours at a time, with group sizes from 2 dogs to 10 dogs. All this variety allows us to give our pups time to interact with dogs that have a similar play style, enriching their time at the shelter.
Playgroup gives dogs physical and mental outlets that help minimize behavior issues during their stay. Through these interactions, we learn more about each individual dogs’ sociability and what will make them most comfortable while they are at the shelter. Playgroup also helps dogs gain confidence with people and other dogs by providing positive experiences.
“We have seen very shy dogs overcome their fears within days after learning directly from other dogs that the kennel environment is okay and that they can play and have fun together here,” says Jessica Marchant, our Canine Behavior Team Coordinator.
Your support allows us to offer playgroup and other enrichment to our shelter residents so they stay happy and healthy while at DCHS and find a home quickly. Due to the generosity and positive support of adoption from our community, our average length of stay for dogs at DCHS is only EIGHT DAYS before they find a home! Thanks to you, those eight days are filled with treats, cuddles and plenty of playtime!
Donate today to help every animal remain happy and healthy while they wait for their forever home. Your donations today will be DOUBLED thanks to the generosity of our #GivingTuesday donors. All gifts (no matter their size) will be MATCHED up to $30,000! Donate now to be a part of this one-day-only challenge!
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