In Times of Joy, All of Us Wish We Possessed a Tail To Wag
By Linda Brecher
I have been involved and dedicated to the Humane Society of Sedona for 17 years. This organization exudes kindness to the shelter dogs in every way possible. I can only write about the dogs, but I’m sure the same love goes to the cats.
Here are some of the reasons I feel kindness abounds.
When lights are turned on in the morning, staff sings to the dogs so they adjust to a new day and a hopeful forever home.
If a dog shows he is uncomfortable, staff or volunteers may sit in their kennel for a soft massage, soothing words, or a warm bath.
Each dog has their own special diet, medications, and treats. A white board in the feeding area tells staff the special needs.
All dogs are examined upon arrival for spay, neutering, dental, and injuries. A recent dog had major challenges and was given stem cell therapy ( $3000 ). He is just fine now and was adopted. Whatever is needed is addressed. We are a no kill shelter.
On holidays, they get a special meal which could be turkey or chicken, pumpkin, or fruit. Our refrigerator is full of cut up hot dogs for those who need a special treat to let them know we humans are their friend. If a dog is a fast eater, he is given a slow feeder so they can enjoy their meal and not have any digestion problem.
Play groups are arranged after testing temperament. They can then play in our large HS dog park, or the courtyard to release energy and play.
On cold nights, sweaters are put on for those who need it.
We have a 3-3-3 program where volunteers call on the pet parents 3 days after adoption, 3 weeks, and then 3 months. These calls inquire how things are going and are there any challenges they need help with.
Volunteers are encouraged to get them out for a hike, a car ride (to Starbucks for a pupperoni) or an overnight. Two hours out of the kennel reduces stress by 40%.
Before closing for the night, piped in music is turned on. The dogs receive a special KONG toy filled with kibble and topped with peanut butter. On as cold night, staff puts the blankets in the dryer just so they will be warm and cuddly.
This is why I love the shelter. This is what I see and observe. This is why I spend many days a week over there, sometimes just to sit in their kennel and give them pets and cuddles. I usually get kisses as a return.
Kindness is everywhere at 2115 Shelby.
Here are some of the reasons I feel kindness abounds.
When lights are turned on in the morning, staff sings to the dogs so they adjust to a new day and a hopeful forever home.
If a dog shows he is uncomfortable, staff or volunteers may sit in their kennel for a soft massage, soothing words, or a warm bath.
Each dog has their own special diet, medications, and treats. A white board in the feeding area tells staff the special needs.
All dogs are examined upon arrival for spay, neutering, dental, and injuries. A recent dog had major challenges and was given stem cell therapy ( $3000 ). He is just fine now and was adopted. Whatever is needed is addressed. We are a no kill shelter.
On holidays, they get a special meal which could be turkey or chicken, pumpkin, or fruit. Our refrigerator is full of cut up hot dogs for those who need a special treat to let them know we humans are their friend. If a dog is a fast eater, he is given a slow feeder so they can enjoy their meal and not have any digestion problem.
Play groups are arranged after testing temperament. They can then play in our large HS dog park, or the courtyard to release energy and play.
On cold nights, sweaters are put on for those who need it.
We have a 3-3-3 program where volunteers call on the pet parents 3 days after adoption, 3 weeks, and then 3 months. These calls inquire how things are going and are there any challenges they need help with.
Volunteers are encouraged to get them out for a hike, a car ride (to Starbucks for a pupperoni) or an overnight. Two hours out of the kennel reduces stress by 40%.
Before closing for the night, piped in music is turned on. The dogs receive a special KONG toy filled with kibble and topped with peanut butter. On as cold night, staff puts the blankets in the dryer just so they will be warm and cuddly.
This is why I love the shelter. This is what I see and observe. This is why I spend many days a week over there, sometimes just to sit in their kennel and give them pets and cuddles. I usually get kisses as a return.
Kindness is everywhere at 2115 Shelby.