Associated Humane Societies: COVID-19 Operation Grant Report

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

The grant was used to purchase necessary enrichment for the cats and dog during the lockdown where volunteers were not allowed to come in and socialize the animals.

We were able to purchase frisbees and clips to hang outside the 160 dog kennels to give them something to do along with treats and peanut butter. We also purchased toys for the cats to play with.

How many pets did this grant help?

Over 400

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

“Hello, my name is Rusty. I was surrendered to the shelter by my owners through no fault of my own and I was very sad. I missed them dearly and I did not know why they left me. I was unsure of my new surroundings and the new people at the shelter. At first, I was very shy, but with each day of playing with toys, going on walks and enjoying my chew toys, I was growing more confident! Eventually, after growing to trust the fun people who often played with me and the fun toys, I broke out of my shell and was like a changed dog!”

The enrichment program at our shelter helps scared and shy dogs learn to trust our staff and volunteers every day. The difference that our enrichment program makes in a dog’s personality from their first day at the shelter to their last really helps their anxiety, fearfulness and their ability to trust! Thanks to the recent grant, we have been able to pour more resources into keeping our dogs happy and help them transition to shelter life!