We typically will use Kong's stuffed with food or treats (Sometimes frozen to last longer and help them cool down), we also use Frisbee's by using a hole puncher to put a small hole in it and zip tying a clip to it so we can clip it to the kennels(you can also freeze these on warm days). As for Dogs who typically can't have certain foods, like dogs on Z/d, C/d diets and food allergies, we try to let them outside a little more often, even if its just to the outside kennels. We try to give all of our dogs at least 2-3 toys in the kennels, usually a rubber toy, a Nyla Bone, and a stuffed toy for the day but we usually take stuffed toys out at night since we can't watch them then. If you have a power chewer that can't have the general softer rubber toys I'd recommend black rubber Kong toys, as they are the toughest rubber Kong makes toys with and they make more than the standard Kong stuffer as well. Which, Kong stuffers can be even given without food in them as well to provide enrichment. We also have little noise machines with pre-recorded noises to help the dogs settle (kind of like white noise to help people sleep)
As for sprays, we only use Adaptil, its a pheromone spray that can help to calm down particularly stressed dogs and puppies who were separated from their mothers. There is a cat version called Feliway as well that does the same thing. They both have a wall plug-in diffuser option as well
Aside from that we have our Volunteers that take our higher energy dogs on walks or hikes.
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Ky Crawford
Animal Care Attendant
Little Traverse Bay Humane Society
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Original Message:
Sent: 07-17-2023 07:48 AM
From: Sarah Reida
Subject: Kennel Enrichment for Dogs
I am needing some ideas for enrichment to offer our dogs while they are in the kennel. We are currently have quite a few dogs in isolation who are not able to get as much outside time or walks. We have an enrichment program that incorporates a lot of food/treat based enrichment. I am wanting to offer these dogs enrichment other than just the taste based enrichment they are already receiving.
We also do have music playing and I am looking into spraying scents in their kennel areas.
Essentially, we have some basic enrichment in place but I am looking to beef it up to help these isolated dogs.
Any ideas?
#Behavior,TrainingandEnrichment
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Sarah Reida
Behavior Department Manager
Kansas Humane Society
Wichita KS
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