EMPOWERING SHELTER DOGS THROUGH CHOICE.
EDUCATION FOR SHELTER STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS.
ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITIES THAT INCLUDE PLAY.
EMPOWERMENT
Our shelter playgroup guidelines are driven by the concepts of choice and empowerment, and adherence to the ethical guidelines adopted by certifying bodies, like the IAABC and CCPDT.
Through the application of the
science of choice and the Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive (LIMA) principles, we promote healthy dog-dog interactions.
EDUCATION
Managing healthy dog interactions requires knowledge and skill. Our guidelines are accompanied by
educational materials, including videos on our YouTube channel.
We have developed the
guidelines and materials to be clear yet flexible so that you can
implement them in your shelter, regardless of resources.
ENRICHMENT
Playgroups are only one part of a shelter enrichment program. Our guidelines have been developed by animal behavior experts with
recognized credentials, and feature information on developing a robust enrichment program.
If you need help implementing an enrichment program our educational offerings can help you!
ABOUT US
The Shelter Playgroup Alliance is 501(c)(3) entity that provides education to shelters on building comprehensive enrichment programs.
Our playgroup guidelines are the result of a collaborative effort among shelter staff and behavior experts who developed a framework that supports safe and “healthy play” and limits the use of aversives to manage playgroups.
Learn more about our impact in 2020 by reading our End of Year Report.