Lowell Humane Society: Shelter Challenge Grant Report

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

The Orvis Company Grant - The money was used to purchase limber to frame the play yard and enclose the gravel. We also purchased 15 tons of pea-stone gravel as well as several kong enrichment toys.

The grant allowed us to re-do our dog play area and provide a safe turf for the dogs to run, socialize and interact with potential adopters. We also spent a small portion on sturdy enrichment toys for the dogs.

How many pets did this grant help?

The grant will help provide a safe play area for all dogs who enter our shelter this year (94 TD) and years to come.

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

Peachie (photo attached) is a dog that has been with us since January. Although it is not always in the best interest of the animal to house them long-term, Peachie is an exception. Without the proper outlets for exercise and play time, Peachie’s stay at the shelter could be much different. By having a proper play yard for the dogs to interact with one another and exercise, we are providing them with the mental stimulation they need to remain healthy while searching for a new home. Every dog that comes to the shelter, benefits by having the option of off-leash dog to dog interaction. They also have access to an area where they can play fetch, run, interact with volunteers and just be a dog.