Second Chance: More on Enrichment Program

13 May Second Chance: More on Enrichment Program

Good day pet column readers, my name is Daisy and I am writing another installment in our series about the Enrichment Program at Second Chance Humane Society.

As a dog that has truly benefited from this program, I am going to discuss how the variations within it can benefit animals across an entire spectrum of needs – again all good data to apply to your pets at home…

Daisy

Not all components of a good Enrichment Program come in the form of simply offering pets different activities to keep them challenged and engaged. Some take place off the Second Chance campus such as  field trips into Town, parks and animal friendly shops, etc. to become better socialized and able to handle new situations when we are adopted.

Beyond that, I just returned to the shelter from a multi-week stay with my friend and trainer Ted Hoff at the Cottonwood Ranch and Kennels in Crawford, where I received some extended enrichment and training. Because I’m a young hound mix, I’m my best when I get exercise along with enhanced cues si I can follow my gifted nose. At Cottonwood Ranch, I was able to really let loose and stretch my legs on the many beautiful acres.

Now that I’m back at Second Chance I get to explore our trails and fields, where there are more than enough smells to keep me busy, but I still miss the chance to just flat out run. To keep me happy, the staff introduced me to the treadmill. Because the treadmill is foreign to a young dog like myself, we started out slowly with lots of treats and encouragement, but the more I explore this crazy contraption, the more I enjoy it.

Moving on the treadmill really allows me to release that focused energy that defines my personality. Until I find my human friend who will take me on hikes, runs, and bike rides, this is a great outlet for me, particularly on the rainy spring days we have been experiencing.

I understand not all animals would enjoy running on a treadmill, like my new cat friend Pickle, who just came up for adoption in the Cat Castle. Pickle hasn’t fully adjusted to Second Chance and is still a little shy, so thankfully the enrichment program can address her needs as well. Pickle gets designated time where she is held and cuddled each week, as well as exploration time with other calm and friendly cats who help show her the routine and ease her tension.

Pickle

Thankfully the Enrichment Program at Second Chance has a variety of programs and activities so that a high-energy girl like me, and reserved animals like Pickle, can be equally satisfied. But of course, the goal of all of this effort is to help us stay happy and healthy until our true destiny of being adopted by our new families unfolds…

Editor’s note: It’s no secret. The Telluride region is dog heaven. Well, pet heaven. Unless you are one of our furry friends who gets caught in the maw of neglect and abuse. Then heaven is on hold until Second Chance Humane Society comes to the rescue. Second Chance is the region’s nonprofit dedicated to saving animals’ lives and promoting responsible pet parenting and human-animal bond. In her weekly blog, executive director Kelly Goodin profiles at least one, generally two of the many animals now living at the no-kill shelter, Angel Ridge Shelter, a dog and a cat, hoping to find them loving permanent homes. The column is sponsored by Ted Hoff of Cottonwood Ranch & Kennel, who from time to time exercises his skills as a dog whisperer, partnering with Kelly and her staff to help train a particularly challenging animal.

Ted Hoff &  Magnificent Mae

By the by, there is no better place to park your pup than Cottonwood whenever you head out of town (for locals) or are heading to town and staying somewhere that does not allow pets. Consider joining Ted’s Very Important Dog (VID) Club for added benies. (Details on Ted’s website.)