For three days, Sumter County Animal Services employees and volunteers received training on how to better incorporate playtime into the daily lives of the dogs from Dogs Playing for Life.
Dogs Playing for Life works to redefine the meaning and importance of quality of life for all sheltered dogs by improving their experience through playgroups and individualized training. By helping shelters improve the quality of life for their dogs, more dogs will be adopted and fewer will fall through the cracks.
“Bringing fun to their environment helps the dogs,” said Aaron Caldwell, Director of shelter programming, Dogs Playing for Life, who facilitated the three-day training session. “The goal is to reduce fear, frustration and stress with playgroups. The more socialization the dogs get with other dogs and with people, not only does it help their quality of life but also makes them more adoptable.”
Sumter County Assistant Administrator Stephen Kennedy said he was aware of Dogs Playing for Life and the work they were doing, but after seeing a presentation by DPFL’s founder, Aimee Sadler, he was sold in bringing their program to Sumter County.
“Ensuring we focus on the quality of life for our animals is the key to lowering length of stay, improving adoptability, and at the same time ensuring the mental health of our team members; four-legged and others,” said Stephen Kennedy, Sumter County Assistant Administrator.
One of the longest residents at Sumter County Animal Services, Tank, enjoyed the playtime with his fellow mates. Tank is a mixed-breed senior dog looking for a nice home where he can live comfortably for his remaining years. Tank is approximately eight years old.
While he still likes to play some, Tank prefers doing his own thing or relaxing in a wading pool. He is friendly, easy going, and easy to walk. What more can a prospective adopter want?
There are plenty of dogs and cats at Sumter County Animal Services to adopt or foster, so please visit at 819 CR 529 in Lake Panasoffkee, from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
