We are all painfully aware of the catch-up game that cats have been playing against dogs, not only in the shelter world, but everywhere. The research and resources are limited in quality and quantity, especially when it comes to working with cats within a shelter environment. At my shelter I have spent the last few years developing a feline behavior and enrichment system that is practical, low-cost, and adaptable to other shelters. I have seen great success with these programs and I believe other shelters would benefit from integrating some of these trainings and programs. While I have shared a decent amount here on Maddie's Fund, I'm hoping to offer more targeted support to those who are interested.
So what exactly is being offered?
- Guidance and resources for training staff or volunteers on feline handling, improved daily care, and targeted behavior work
- Developing or refining enrichment programs
- Creating or improving behavior monitoring and tracking
- Integrating behavior work into daily workflow
- Troubleshooting difficult feline cases
- General guidance on improving feline welfare with limited resources
My goal is not to overhaul your shelter, but to help build systems that work within your existing structure, staffing, and capacity based on what I have found to be successful and all that I have learned through experience and continuing education.
Why should I ask you?
Now, I'm definitely no Jackson Galaxy, but I have seen the changes that I have made actually make a difference within my own shelter. Nebraska Humane Society(NHS) is a non-profit animal shelter with a government stray contract bringing in 15,000+ animals annually and in 2024 we actually achieved a 90+% save rate making us a no-kill shelter. Best Friends also recognized NHS as a touchstone shelter for one of the greatest improvements in lifesaving efforts in the nation. The implementation of TVNR has given us the time and space to work with more complex cases, but just having the space to hold onto a FAS 5 cat for a few extra days does nothing to actually improve it's outcome, work has to be put in to decreasing stress, improving handleability, and creating trust between the humans and the cats. Since implementing the changes that I have, I have seen a significant increase in staff confidence when it comes to handling, easier decision making and pathway planning, increased positive outcomes for overstimulated, fearful, and high FAS cats, and a decrease in returns due to behavior for these more tricky cats. Because of the confidence my staff has in their ability to carry out these programs on their own and doing so wonderfully, I now have the time to be able to help others do the same (or similar, every shelter is different!)
How do I sign up?
If you are interested, I've created this form to help me understand your shelter's setup, challenges, and goals. This will help tailor support to your specific needs rather than offering generic advice without actionable steps. I am excited to help however I can, whether you're starting from scratch or wanting to strengthen what you already have.
*Please note this is for behavior and enrichment programs only and not intended for transfer requests
#Behavior,TrainingandEnrichment------------------------------
Laurel Wilton
Feline and Critter Welfare Supervisor
Nebraska Humane Society
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