Tennessee Humane Animal League / Pet Placement Center: KONG Toys Grant Report

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

We received Kong products to help with the dog-enrichment program at our shelter.

Our dogs are able to spend time outdoors and have interaction with people during the day, but are in their kennels overnight from 5 p.m. until 9 a.m. We like to give each dog a Kong every evening so they can enjoy the special treat and have a fun activity while they are alone. We also like to have Kongs available for visitors or potential adopters so they give them as a special treat or to help shy dogs be more comfortable during a meet-and-greet. It's also a great volunteer opportunity for groups to get together and fill the Kongs, so we have them readily available.

How many pets did this grant help?

So far this year, these Kongs have helped about 20 dogs have a more comfortable stay at the shelter while they wait for their home.

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

Frida Pawhlo (first and second photos) is an Australian cattle dog/blue heeler mix who is also deaf. She has done really well with learning some sign language, and being treat-motivated really helps with this training. She absolutely loved her Kong! She already has an approved adopter with a scheduled meet-and-greet.

Liberty is a shepherd and corgi mix girl who got to enjoy the Kongs (third photo) before getting adopted (fourth photo).

Tofu (fifth photo) is still available. Meet Tofu here.

Pico (sixth photo) is still adoptable. Meet Pico here.

Benedict Cumberbark (seventh and eighth photos) is still adoptable. Meet Benedict Cumberbark here.