Finding homes the fear-free way

Our staff at HSHV are Fear Free Certified. But what does “fear free” actually mean??

The Fear Free method means identifying and alleviating fear, anxiety and stress (FAS) in shelter animals. This requires a well-rounded approach: knowing how to read animal body language and how to modify our own body language toward them, providing mental enrichment and physical exercise, and adjusting the animal’s housing situation to meet their needs. ?

All animals can experience FAS, but this week we’ll take a tour through the dogs currently in our care and show you how we are implementing fear-free tactics to improve their stay with us.

We are fortunate to have expert canine behaviorsts on staff who evaluate every dog who comes through our doors. Dogs like Caesar, who need basic training to improve their chances of adoption, qualify for our "Head Start" program. This program consists of positive reinforcement based training, and is implemented by staff and trained volunteers. Caesar was initially so reactive to other dogs that we could barely walk him, but after months of training his reactivity has greatly improved and he is finally available for adoption! ?

Socialization is incredibly important for reducing barriers to adoption. We match dogs up in play groups as much as possible, to allow them to expend energy, relieve stress and practice having positive experiences with other dogs. Here are Bowman and Moonlight in the play yard, getting to know each other.

We are grateful to have a truly state-of-the-art shelter, which offers a wide variety of housing options depending on an animals' needs. Gigi is an older lady looking for a calm environment, and is easily overwhelmed by activity and noise -- so we are housing her in a spacious room with high windows separate from the rest of the dog kennels, where she can't hear barking or see other dogs but can see people. Other dogs who are less sound-sensitive but still reactive to visuals can be housed in regular kennels, with blankets attached to the front to reduce overstimulation.

Sometimes, the greatest comfort to an animal is their best friend! It's hard to find adopters who will take 2 animals at once, but when a pair is truly bonded, like Dually and Missy, we require that they remain together. Being housed together gives them comfort during this time of transition, and helps both of them gain confidence and show their true personalities.

When shelter housing options aren't working for an animal, we rely heavily on our incredible fosters. For example, Spud is a youngster who needs basic manners training during his formative early months. He has been learning a lot living with an experienced foster, who can give him the round-the-clock care any puppy needs to become the best dog that he can be!

This is only a short list. We have 100 dogs currently in our care, and each of them receives individualized attention based on their needs. Change is stressful for animals, but it is critical to reduce that stress as much as possible -- because happy dogs attract adopters, adapt more easily to their new homes, and are less likely to return to the shelter!

For more fear-free training resources, check out our Behavior Help blog:?