Animal Shelter Enrichment: Teton Valley Community Animal Shelter

Teton High School seniors funded the Teton Valley Community Animal Shelter’s Youth Philanthropy Grant for Animal Shelter Enrichment with a $730 grant award. The Teton Valley Community Animal Shelter takes in stray and unwanted animals, caring for them while they wait to be adopted. When people visit the adoptable animals, they appreciate knowing that the animals are well cared for and happy. This can be difficult if the dogs and cats are stressed or bored. When the animals are content, have some training, and are well adjusted in the animal shelter, they are more adoptable and more likely to find a home quickly.

The Shelter’s goal is to provide enrichment and training for rescued animals using toys and training tools. Shelter staff and volunteers will use these funds to purchase hardy, sanitizable dog and cat toys, lasers, treat puzzles, cat towers, training leashes, clickers, harnesses for walks, and some ingredients to make enrichment treats. The more variety offered, the more beneficial it is for the dogs and cats, who play and train for treats that are designed for reducing boredom.

Students appreciated the immediate impact of this project, as these funds will provide for more content, less stressed animals that are more appealing to prospective new owners and visitors alike. Well-trained dogs can also attend adoption events, showcasing their adaptability and friendliness. The Community Animal shelter takes pride in caring for the homeless dogs and cats of Teton Valley. This grant will help with the comfort, training, entertainment, and stress of rescued animals to improve their chances of quick adoption.