Sacramento SPCA: Play Yard Renovation Grant Report

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

The grant funds were used to renovate a large Frisbee yard into three distinct play yards. This consisted of grading the yard to remove grass and weeds and route drainage to avoid flooding of the yard. New gates and barriers were installed to separate the yards and to allow for safe and easy entrance. Fencing was repaired or replaced as needed to ensure the yards are properly enclosed to avoid the possible escape of dogs.

This grant is instrumental in helping reduce the stress of dogs in our care by allowing them time out of the kennels to run and play with other dogs. It also offers insight into their true personalities by allowing them to interact with other dogs in a social setting. Behaviors and interactions are noted on each dog’s record for easy retrieval when working with staff, volunteers, or potential adopters.

How many pets did this grant help?

We do not have a solid number at this time, as the playgroups were implemented in late August 2017.

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

Buffalo is an energetic 1-year-old terrier who has been with the Sacramento SPCA since Aug. 18, 2017. Buffalo is a healthy, energetic “linebacker” who LOVES to run. While in the renovated play yard, he can often be seen running and jumping with his tongue hanging out. The play yard provides an opportunity for Buffalo to show off his football skills while working through the excess energy 1-year-old dogs tend to have. Buffalo is still at the Sacramento SPCA, but we are hoping he finds his forever home soon! Meet Buffalo: www.petfinder.com/petdetail/39325661