We have awarded a $10,000 Buddy's Grant to SMART Animal Sanctuary and Rehoming Centre to build a new multipurpose area for the well-being and adoptability of their dogs.
SMART dedicates their time to helping animals find their ways into lifelong loving homes with an excellent quality of life of comfort, security and love. They focus on rescuing many dogs and puppies from death row in country pounds.
This new space is designed to be a dynamic area that serves multiple critical functions like enrichment, training and a meet and greet area.
The intention is that it will:
1. Enhance Dog Well-Being: The enrichment area will provide a stimulating environment where dogs can engage in physical and mental exercises, reducing stress and behavioural issues associated with long term shelter stays. This will include features such as agility equipment, puzzle toys and space for interactive play.
2. Increase Adoptability: By offering a welcoming and interactive space, potential adopters can meet and engage with dogs in a relaxed, home-like setting. This will facilitate stronger connections between dogs and adopters, showcasing each dog’s personality in a positive light.
3. Facilitate Dog Training: The area will also function as a dedicated space for training sessions led by a team of skilled trainers and volunteers. These sessions will focus on basic obedience, socialization, and house manners, making the dogs more appealing to potential adopters and preparing them for a life in a home.
4. Accelerate Adoption Process: By improving the overall experience for both dogs and adopters, SMART aim to increase the adoption rate, thus reducing the length of stay for each dog. This will allow them to accommodate more dogs in need, enhancing their overall impact on the community.
We look forward to sharing some photos of the finished area when it is complete!
