Head Start & Paws to Pet

Many of the animals who come through our doors need additional guidance to prepare them for placement. Others are devastated by the loss of their homes and have difficulty adjusting to shelter life – often by totally withdrawing.

The staff and volunteers have responded to the needs of our shelter animals through two unique programs that have reduced the stress caused by the shelter environment and resulted in higher adoption rates.

HeadStart    

The HeadStart program gives dogs with little or no training a jumpstart on learning. Dogs are evaluated by our staff and given a training plan that our volunteers follow. HeadStart volunteers get specialized instruction and work as a team training our dogs on a regular basis in a consistent manner. HeadStart Volunteers also work with prospective adopters. This is a very challenging but rewarding program, which results in many successful adoptions. Dogs are also better able to cope with the stress of shelter life because of all the individual attention they receive.

Paws to Pet

Amazingly – just pausing a few minutes to pet and gently converse with a frighten kitty makes his or her day. We have seen dramatic results from this simple program. Volunteers are assigned to our neediest cats. Interactions between cats and volunteers have helped cats adjust to shelter life much more quickly – making them more relaxed and attractive to our adopters.

If you are interested in learning more about either program and how you can get involved, contact Joyce Barton, Director of Volunteers at 401 846-8276 or joyceb@potterleague.org