One form of enrichment for cats and dogs, that we have found to be very successful for the animals and people alike, is a "Reading to Animals Program."
Our shelter has a club at the local high school, which, prior to the pandemic, had become the most popular one amongst students. Among the many other activities the students participated in, they would read to the animals (who were caged at all times) and would even bring their homework and sit in front of cages, reading their homework to the animals! Amazingly dogs and cats can be mesmerized by "social studies'!
Younger students also participated and we were told that for some, it really helped them improve their reading skills, in addition to bringing relaxation and cheer to the animals.
Youngsters spending non-judgmental time with the animals brings enrichment and a sense of calm to animals in the shelter, especially to new arrivals who are still trying to figure out what has happened to them. The students recognized how important their efforts are to the animals, making them aware of the importance of compassion for homeless animals.
We are working to revive the reading program, post-Covid and in the process of recruiting volunteers to oversee the students, while at the shelter. We have learned that it's a great way to build relationships with our community, while providing solace to our animals in their time of need.
Wishing you luck in your enrichment efforts!
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Nicky Jones
Development Director
Santa Paula Animal Rescue Center
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Original Message:
Sent: 06-17-2023 08:58 PM
From: Jessica Quaresimo
Subject: Enrichment program charts
I have recently been put in charge of creating a cat enrichment program. I am looking for any ideas and forms/charts/ enrichment ideas
I am creating a program for volunteers to go into our medical wing and socialize with specific cats that are in need. Then I am creating a section/program for our cat rooms and kitten rooms where we have free roaming cats. I'd also be open to seeing any dog enrichment things as well.
#Behavior,TrainingandEnrichment
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Jessica Quaresimo
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