Behavioral Therapy Program

We have implemented a cognitive behavioral therapy program for dogs at the Lancaster County Animal Shelter. A contracted Certified Family Dog Mediator and Fear Free Certified Trainer provides services using the most current and effective scientifically proven techniques to work with dogs. The program aims to reduce behavioral euthanasia, reduce the length of stay for shelter animals with behavioral issues, and address the shelter’s most significant needs (i.e., enrichment, adoptions, marketing, training, etc.).

The scope of the program includes:
-Shelter assessment to determine greatest needs.
-Creation of an action plan to address needs.
-Develop a training program (including a training manual) for canine behavior and enrichment (as needed).
-Hands-on work with dogs identified as having behavior challenges.
-Conduct staff and volunteer training for canine safety, behavior, and enrichment.
-Develop standard operating procedures for canine training and behavior.
-Develop training aids and assist in answering behavior/training questions.

This is a much-needed program that will help to prevent the euthanasia of dogs identified as having behavior issues and create a safer environment at the shelter for staff and volunteers.

We need your help to fund this much-needed program. Any donations, big or small, will help as we move toward our goal of preventing needless euthanasia of dogs that can be rehabilitated and adopted into loving families. Recurring monthly donations are needed even more as we hope to make this an ongoing program. ❤️🐾🐶