Abandoned Animal Rescue: KONG Toys Grant Report

How did this grant help your organization and the pets in your care?

We received Kong toys for shelter dogs' enrichment and entertainment.

Because there is no time limit on how long a dog remains at AAR until adoption, enrichment and entertainment toys are vital to help prevent shelter stress. At AAR, dogs are taken outside twice a day for exercise and play; they spend the night in an indoor kennel. Kong toys are great for both areas; they provide entertainment both in the exercise yard and overnight in the kennel.

How many pets did this grant help?

Fifteen at a time. We will sterilize and reuse them.

Please provide a story of one or more specific pets this grant helped.

Haylie was rescued with her sister after living as strays in a rural area. AAR provided heartworm treatment and lots of tender, loving care. Haylie was nervous after being separated from her sister, and had some issues being in a kennel. Having a treat-stuffed Kong toy helped her get through the nights. She was heartworm-positive and is now awaiting adoption. You can meet Haylie here.

Bruno was heartworm-positive when he arrived at AAR. During heartworm treatment, the dog must stay quiet — no playing or running. The classic Kong toy that can be stuffed with treats was a great help to an active pup like Bruno when he was going through the treatment. And he still loved them when he was finally allowed to play in the exercise yard. Bruno is now awaiting adoption. You can meet Bruno here.