Animal Welfare Professionals

Hi!

We are starting to discuss a much-needed re-design of our dog kennels. I am curious if anyone is able to share what has or has not worked with recent kennel updates in your facility. Most specifically, kennel doors. If anyone is comfortable sharing photos that would be tremendously helpful as well!

Thank you,

Hi!

We are starting to discuss a much-needed re-design of our dog kennels. I am curious if anyone is able to share what has or has not worked with recent kennel updates in your facility. Most specifically, kennel doors. If anyone is comfortable sharing photos that would be tremendously helpful as well!

Thank you,

Hi!

We are starting to discuss a much-needed re-design of our dog kennels. I am curious if anyone is able to share what has or has not worked with recent kennel updates in your facility. Most specifically, kennel doors. If anyone is comfortable sharing photos that would be tremendously helpful as well!

Thank you,

What are you looking to improve or what problems are you looking to solve? 

For one, Having to walk dogs past other dogs is a huge issue. Many of the dogs are already stressed, and barking when dogs are going out, then seeing a dog walk by accelerates this.  It's bad enough when it's am aggressive dog, but even dog friendly dogs get worse and become more dog reactive over time. 

Being able to get them outside without walking past other kennels is ideal. Something solid that blocks the bottom/visual aspect doesnt totally fix the problem but is helpful. 

Hi!

We are starting to discuss a much-needed re-design of our dog kennels. I am curious if anyone is able to share what has or has not worked with recent kennel updates in your facility. Most specifically, kennel doors. If anyone is comfortable sharing photos that would be tremendously helpful as well!

Thank you,

Yes. I do it all day and you can see the results.

I help them. The environment helps them. Just because yours doesn't, doesn't mean it's not possible. Why I'm here! To help people know and choose a better way.

Blocking sight lines interferes with my ability to communicate with all the dogs in the moment and can add much undo stress.  You've not loved the difference. I want to give yaz a chance to do so, but not beyond your current abilities.

For me it's a benefit, not a problem.  If I have a dog that is a danger to itself or others, I can put additional precautions in place so That dog feels safe and can adapt comfortably.

When I walk a dog thru the 'gauntlet', (so many times already today), my dog on lead is not the only one I'm paying attention to, or paying! 

What are you looking to improve or what problems are you looking to solve? 

For one, Having to walk dogs past other dogs is a huge issue. Many of the dogs are already stressed, and barking when dogs are going out, then seeing a dog walk by accelerates this.  It's bad enough when it's am aggressive dog, but even dog friendly dogs get worse and become more dog reactive over time. 

Being able to get them outside without walking past other kennels is ideal. Something solid that blocks the bottom/visual aspect doesnt totally fix the problem but is helpful. 

Hi!

We are starting to discuss a much-needed re-design of our dog kennels. I am curious if anyone is able to share what has or has not worked with recent kennel updates in your facility. Most specifically, kennel doors. If anyone is comfortable sharing photos that would be tremendously helpful as well!

Thank you,

Oh my goodness. When I first read that last line I thought, well, of course I pay attention to the other dogs. But this morning I reread this and a light went on - I observe the other dogs, but I don't pay them when I walk by with a dog. Mostly I try to hustle past to minimize the time they're reacting. 

I'll give it a try, but it is hard to imagine. We have what seems to be the usual hallway of kennels facing kennels so there are the two sides to deal with. I know they get used to waiting for me to get to them when I've been consistently treating them when I show up in the kennel, so in theory they'd get used to the dog walk treats. It's hard to imagine adding a dog in tow to the treating routine, but honestly, a lot about successfully working with dogs can be achieved by sticking with the theory. 

Yes. I do it all day and you can see the results.

I help them. The environment helps them. Just because yours doesn't, doesn't mean it's not possible. Why I'm here! To help people know and choose a better way.

Blocking sight lines interferes with my ability to communicate with all the dogs in the moment and can add much undo stress.  You've not loved the difference. I want to give yaz a chance to do so, but not beyond your current abilities.

For me it's a benefit, not a problem.  If I have a dog that is a danger to itself or others, I can put additional precautions in place so That dog feels safe and can adapt comfortably.

When I walk a dog thru the 'gauntlet', (so many times already today), my dog on lead is not the only one I'm paying attention to, or paying! 

What are you looking to improve or what problems are you looking to solve? 

For one, Having to walk dogs past other dogs is a huge issue. Many of the dogs are already stressed, and barking when dogs are going out, then seeing a dog walk by accelerates this.  It's bad enough when it's am aggressive dog, but even dog friendly dogs get worse and become more dog reactive over time. 

Being able to get them outside without walking past other kennels is ideal. Something solid that blocks the bottom/visual aspect doesnt totally fix the problem but is helpful. 

Hi!

We are starting to discuss a much-needed re-design of our dog kennels. I am curious if anyone is able to share what has or has not worked with recent kennel updates in your facility. Most specifically, kennel doors. If anyone is comfortable sharing photos that would be tremendously helpful as well!

Thank you,

What are you looking to improve or what problems are you looking to solve? 

For one, Having to walk dogs past other dogs is a huge issue. Many of the dogs are already stressed, and barking when dogs are going out, then seeing a dog walk by accelerates this.  It's bad enough when it's am aggressive dog, but even dog friendly dogs get worse and become more dog reactive over time. 

Being able to get them outside without walking past other kennels is ideal. Something solid that blocks the bottom/visual aspect doesnt totally fix the problem but is helpful. 

Hi!

We are starting to discuss a much-needed re-design of our dog kennels. I am curious if anyone is able to share what has or has not worked with recent kennel updates in your facility. Most specifically, kennel doors. If anyone is comfortable sharing photos that would be tremendously helpful as well!

Thank you,

Hi!

We are starting to discuss a much-needed re-design of our dog kennels. I am curious if anyone is able to share what has or has not worked with recent kennel updates in your facility. Most specifically, kennel doors. If anyone is comfortable sharing photos that would be tremendously helpful as well!

Thank you,

Our shelter is set up where our dog kennels are directly across from each other, 10 on each side.  Each kennel does have a bottom barrier, however the large dogs can stand and see through the bars so they have access to the dog next to them and also can see the ones across from them.  Usually the bottom barrier does help, however when taking the animal out of the kennel and walking them down that gauntlet is a huge challenge.    So I agree would be great to get some feedback from others on what set ups they have to help deal with the gauntlet walk.

Hi!

We are starting to discuss a much-needed re-design of our dog kennels. I am curious if anyone is able to share what has or has not worked with recent kennel updates in your facility. Most specifically, kennel doors. If anyone is comfortable sharing photos that would be tremendously helpful as well!

Thank you,

Our shelter is set up where our dog kennels are directly across from each other, 10 on each side.  Each kennel does have a bottom barrier, however the large dogs can stand and see through the bars so they have access to the dog next to them and also can see the ones across from them.  Usually the bottom barrier does help, however when taking the animal out of the kennel and walking them down that gauntlet is a huge challenge.    So I agree would be great to get some feedback from others on what set ups they have to help deal with the gauntlet walk.

Hi!

We are starting to discuss a much-needed re-design of our dog kennels. I am curious if anyone is able to share what has or has not worked with recent kennel updates in your facility. Most specifically, kennel doors. If anyone is comfortable sharing photos that would be tremendously helpful as well!

Thank you,

Hi Anonymous,

Ok. Walking the gauntlet.  Do I understand correctly that you are depending on a visual barrier to calm the dogs?  Ineffective, right?

When you walk thru Without a dog, is it still a challenge?

I need to know if you are counting on the barrier, leaving it up to the dogs to make it easier, only focusing on the dog in hand as you walk thru, or actively participating in their behavior modification of all within your routine?

So I condition all my boarders to expect something (i.e. a kibble) to come to them Under their nose height, and I bet others do too, whether I have a dog out or not.  Positive associations- because I am walking past you are focused on ME and it's worth it to You. 

Do I need to go into more detail?  

Be proactive. It's easy to condition yourself to slide kibbles under bottom rails. Watch your timing and delivery and things should get easier.

Our shelter is set up where our dog kennels are directly across from each other, 10 on each side.  Each kennel does have a bottom barrier, however the large dogs can stand and see through the bars so they have access to the dog next to them and also can see the ones across from them.  Usually the bottom barrier does help, however when taking the animal out of the kennel and walking them down that gauntlet is a huge challenge.    So I agree would be great to get some feedback from others on what set ups they have to help deal with the gauntlet walk.

Hi!

We are starting to discuss a much-needed re-design of our dog kennels. I am curious if anyone is able to share what has or has not worked with recent kennel updates in your facility. Most specifically, kennel doors. If anyone is comfortable sharing photos that would be tremendously helpful as well!

Thank you,

Great information.  I appreciate that suggestions.  I get that behavior training during the process is the best for long term adoptions opportunities as well. Teaching the dogs to ignore what's not necessary to focus on.  Thanks so much

Hi Anonymous,

Ok. Walking the gauntlet.  Do I understand correctly that you are depending on a visual barrier to calm the dogs?  Ineffective, right?

When you walk thru Without a dog, is it still a challenge?

I need to know if you are counting on the barrier, leaving it up to the dogs to make it easier, only focusing on the dog in hand as you walk thru, or actively participating in their behavior modification of all within your routine?

So I condition all my boarders to expect something (i.e. a kibble) to come to them Under their nose height, and I bet others do too, whether I have a dog out or not.  Positive associations- because I am walking past you are focused on ME and it's worth it to You. 

Do I need to go into more detail?  

Be proactive. It's easy to condition yourself to slide kibbles under bottom rails. Watch your timing and delivery and things should get easier.

Our shelter is set up where our dog kennels are directly across from each other, 10 on each side.  Each kennel does have a bottom barrier, however the large dogs can stand and see through the bars so they have access to the dog next to them and also can see the ones across from them.  Usually the bottom barrier does help, however when taking the animal out of the kennel and walking them down that gauntlet is a huge challenge.    So I agree would be great to get some feedback from others on what set ups they have to help deal with the gauntlet walk.

Hi!

We are starting to discuss a much-needed re-design of our dog kennels. I am curious if anyone is able to share what has or has not worked with recent kennel updates in your facility. Most specifically, kennel doors. If anyone is comfortable sharing photos that would be tremendously helpful as well!

Thank you,

Thanks. Just needed a reminder? :)

Choosing to engage ( or not) is management.

How you engage is also management, and leads to modification.

Consistent modification conditions and trains behavior patterns.

IMO, LIMA should include it all. Not just training techniques, but that seems to be the focus. (?)

Getting it and doing it are very different things.
Everyone:  Choose to practice your skills with every opportunity.  You'll see the benefits.

I'm trying to give everyone an environment in which they can more easily, do. I believe most shelters are not designed for ease of operation (that benefits dogs), although may think they are, only because it's what they know. Not judging.  Just stating.

The environment should be Setting not just the dogs up to succeed, but any person choosing to interact.  

The shift needed is not just in the physical applications.

Great information.  I appreciate that suggestions.  I get that behavior training during the process is the best for long term adoptions opportunities as well. Teaching the dogs to ignore what's not necessary to focus on.  Thanks so much

Hi Anonymous,

Ok. Walking the gauntlet.  Do I understand correctly that you are depending on a visual barrier to calm the dogs?  Ineffective, right?

When you walk thru Without a dog, is it still a challenge?

I need to know if you are counting on the barrier, leaving it up to the dogs to make it easier, only focusing on the dog in hand as you walk thru, or actively participating in their behavior modification of all within your routine?

So I condition all my boarders to expect something (i.e. a kibble) to come to them Under their nose height, and I bet others do too, whether I have a dog out or not.  Positive associations- because I am walking past you are focused on ME and it's worth it to You. 

Do I need to go into more detail?  

Be proactive. It's easy to condition yourself to slide kibbles under bottom rails. Watch your timing and delivery and things should get easier.

Our shelter is set up where our dog kennels are directly across from each other, 10 on each side.  Each kennel does have a bottom barrier, however the large dogs can stand and see through the bars so they have access to the dog next to them and also can see the ones across from them.  Usually the bottom barrier does help, however when taking the animal out of the kennel and walking them down that gauntlet is a huge challenge.    So I agree would be great to get some feedback from others on what set ups they have to help deal with the gauntlet walk.

Hi!

We are starting to discuss a much-needed re-design of our dog kennels. I am curious if anyone is able to share what has or has not worked with recent kennel updates in your facility. Most specifically, kennel doors. If anyone is comfortable sharing photos that would be tremendously helpful as well!

Thank you,

Diane,

What a great insight!

Training and management aka engagement happen 24/7. What we do and how we do it is so important and all interactions should be directed by the dog's body language. They communicate all the time, we just need to learn to listen. Keep in mind that the environment also dictates behaviors and if we are clever we can use or modify the environment to help us out. I agree with you 200%. 

Thanks. Just needed a reminder? :)

Choosing to engage ( or not) is management.

How you engage is also management, and leads to modification.

Consistent modification conditions and trains behavior patterns.

IMO, LIMA should include it all. Not just training techniques, but that seems to be the focus. (?)

Getting it and doing it are very different things.
Everyone:  Choose to practice your skills with every opportunity.  You'll see the benefits.

I'm trying to give everyone an environment in which they can more easily, do. I believe most shelters are not designed for ease of operation (that benefits dogs), although may think they are, only because it's what they know. Not judging.  Just stating.

The environment should be Setting not just the dogs up to succeed, but any person choosing to interact.  

The shift needed is not just in the physical applications.

Great information.  I appreciate that suggestions.  I get that behavior training during the process is the best for long term adoptions opportunities as well. Teaching the dogs to ignore what's not necessary to focus on.  Thanks so much

Hi Anonymous,

Ok. Walking the gauntlet.  Do I understand correctly that you are depending on a visual barrier to calm the dogs?  Ineffective, right?

When you walk thru Without a dog, is it still a challenge?

I need to know if you are counting on the barrier, leaving it up to the dogs to make it easier, only focusing on the dog in hand as you walk thru, or actively participating in their behavior modification of all within your routine?

So I condition all my boarders to expect something (i.e. a kibble) to come to them Under their nose height, and I bet others do too, whether I have a dog out or not.  Positive associations- because I am walking past you are focused on ME and it's worth it to You. 

Do I need to go into more detail?  

Be proactive. It's easy to condition yourself to slide kibbles under bottom rails. Watch your timing and delivery and things should get easier.

Our shelter is set up where our dog kennels are directly across from each other, 10 on each side.  Each kennel does have a bottom barrier, however the large dogs can stand and see through the bars so they have access to the dog next to them and also can see the ones across from them.  Usually the bottom barrier does help, however when taking the animal out of the kennel and walking them down that gauntlet is a huge challenge.    So I agree would be great to get some feedback from others on what set ups they have to help deal with the gauntlet walk.

Hi!

We are starting to discuss a much-needed re-design of our dog kennels. I am curious if anyone is able to share what has or has not worked with recent kennel updates in your facility. Most specifically, kennel doors. If anyone is comfortable sharing photos that would be tremendously helpful as well!

Thank you,

Hi Anonymous,

Ok. Walking the gauntlet.  Do I understand correctly that you are depending on a visual barrier to calm the dogs?  Ineffective, right?

When you walk thru Without a dog, is it still a challenge?

I need to know if you are counting on the barrier, leaving it up to the dogs to make it easier, only focusing on the dog in hand as you walk thru, or actively participating in their behavior modification of all within your routine?

So I condition all my boarders to expect something (i.e. a kibble) to come to them Under their nose height, and I bet others do too, whether I have a dog out or not.  Positive associations- because I am walking past you are focused on ME and it's worth it to You. 

Do I need to go into more detail?  

Be proactive. It's easy to condition yourself to slide kibbles under bottom rails. Watch your timing and delivery and things should get easier.

Our shelter is set up where our dog kennels are directly across from each other, 10 on each side.  Each kennel does have a bottom barrier, however the large dogs can stand and see through the bars so they have access to the dog next to them and also can see the ones across from them.  Usually the bottom barrier does help, however when taking the animal out of the kennel and walking them down that gauntlet is a huge challenge.    So I agree would be great to get some feedback from others on what set ups they have to help deal with the gauntlet walk.

Hi!

We are starting to discuss a much-needed re-design of our dog kennels. I am curious if anyone is able to share what has or has not worked with recent kennel updates in your facility. Most specifically, kennel doors. If anyone is comfortable sharing photos that would be tremendously helpful as well!

Thank you,

Hi!

We are starting to discuss a much-needed re-design of our dog kennels. I am curious if anyone is able to share what has or has not worked with recent kennel updates in your facility. Most specifically, kennel doors. If anyone is comfortable sharing photos that would be tremendously helpful as well!

Thank you,

#Behavior,TrainingandEnrichment

------------------------------
Tina Hope
Shelter Behaviorist
Seattle Animal Shelter
------------------------------

Hi Tina,

I think Best Friends has the best design for their original kennels. They house 5-6 dogs per unit built like a hexagon. In the middle of the hexagon is a workstation so the dogs don't see each other. Each kennel is connected to its own yard and the dogs don't need to do a gauntlet walk. I try to find photos but the best way to share this is to use a map. You can see the hexagon structure and the outdoor yard connected to the kennels. I volunteered at Best Friends years ago and have always felt this design is very clever. 

Hi!

We are starting to discuss a much-needed re-design of our dog kennels. I am curious if anyone is able to share what has or has not worked with recent kennel updates in your facility. Most specifically, kennel doors. If anyone is comfortable sharing photos that would be tremendously helpful as well!

Thank you,

Where is best friends located and I will try and look them up?  TY

Hi Tina,

I think Best Friends has the best design for their original kennels. They house 5-6 dogs per unit built like a hexagon. In the middle of the hexagon is a workstation so the dogs don't see each other. Each kennel is connected to its own yard and the dogs don't need to do a gauntlet walk. I try to find photos but the best way to share this is to use a map. You can see the hexagon structure and the outdoor yard connected to the kennels. I volunteered at Best Friends years ago and have always felt this design is very clever. 

Hi!

We are starting to discuss a much-needed re-design of our dog kennels. I am curious if anyone is able to share what has or has not worked with recent kennel updates in your facility. Most specifically, kennel doors. If anyone is comfortable sharing photos that would be tremendously helpful as well!

Thank you,

Hi!

We are starting to discuss a much-needed re-design of our dog kennels. I am curious if anyone is able to share what has or has not worked with recent kennel updates in your facility. Most specifically, kennel doors. If anyone is comfortable sharing photos that would be tremendously helpful as well!

Thank you,