Humane Society of Camden County: KONG Toys Grant Report

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

The KONG products we received were used as enrichment for shelter dogs.

The KONG toys we received helped our shelter dogs pass the time enjoyably. Filled with yummy treats and snacks, they gave the dogs entertainment and satisfied their natural instincts to lick and chew.

How many pets did this grant help?

100

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

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the year 2020 has encompassed the idea of “essential.” As a Humane Society, we consider the work we provide to the homeless and stray animals of Camden County to be necessary and essential. We have not been able to have volunteers at the shelter as normal due to the pandemic. The KONG toy grant has helped many shelter dogs during this stressful time in their lives as they await their forever homes.

The KONG toys we received enabled us to provide important enrichment to shelter dogs. Chewing is a natural stress-busting activity. Dogs that chew regularly have access to a great, natural way of self-soothing. Kongs are also a useful way to keep dogs busy, divert them into some quiet time or encourage them to stay on their beds.

Landry, a young 8-week-old female Beagle mix, was adopted in October 2020 by a wonderful family. Landry and her three siblings greatly benefited from their KONG toys, as the toys provided them with something they could lick and chew, starting them with good puppy habits from the beginning! Landry’s family is over the moon with her and she has grown up so much since.

The grant has impacted many animals like Landry and will surely continue to help the many more we are sure to see.