Houston SPCA: KONG Toys Grant Report

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

The Houston SPCA uses the product (KONG toys) as enrichment for its shelter dogs. Animal-care staff place peanut butter, kibble, or treats inside the toys, then present them to the dogs for their enjoyment. The KONGs are cleaned and rotated dog-to-dog on a daily basis.

The enrichment provided by KONGs helped – and will continue to help – our dogs maintain their mental and emotional vitality. In turn, this positive mood helps the dogs in our care show off their individual personalities to potential adopters. It is easier to find a forever home for a happy and fulfilled dog than a sad and bored dog. KONGs also help timid dogs learn to trust humans again, or for the first time in their lives. They learn that people can indeed mean good things, such as a fun treat to keep them busy. In the end, our mission is to find these animals loving families. KONGs provided by the Petfinder Foundation help us towards that mission, and we are deeply grateful. Thank you!

How many pets did this grant help?

1,100 dogs

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

Meet Mocha. She was under Houston SPCA care for many months before adoption. She is a special girl, but tended to get overlooked because of her patchy fur and silly teeth. Whenever she got her KONG, however, Mocha came to life! People couldn’t help but notice and become infected by her joy. The KONG really gave her something to wag her tail about! We are happy to report that Mocha found her forever home, and is currently lighting up the life of her new family. The Houston SPCA thanks the Petfinder Foundation for its generous donation!