Another Good Reason to Volunteer

Natasha, one of our senior volunteers, took Koa (who was adopted almost immediately) for a short hike at Heart Creek.  It is clear from the pictures that they both had fun, and that is always an objective of any outing.  What is not so clear is that Natasha, like all of our volunteers, is teaching/training every time she takes a dog out.

We are unique in that we do not just have dog walkers.  We really get to know our dogs and work with them to make them excellent companions for their forever family.  Providing a safe and healthy physical environment is essential for any SPCA/Humane Society/Rescue Group.  We do that, but believe that we need to do more--we want to work with each dog as an individual and understand his/her behaviours. 

Every dog is assessed for common behavioural issues (pulling on the leash when walking, resource guarding, ease of handling, playfulness...) after they arrive at our adoption centre.  A plan is developed and volunteers, like Natasha, follow that plan and work with each dog to help it learn the new skills/behaviours that will make it a great companion--all with positive rewards!

And we see our cats in exactly the same way--as individuals.  We strive to match the cat's behaviour and temperment to that of the family who adopts her/him.