Chippewa County (WQOW) – A local animal shelter is changing the way you meet your potential new furry friend in hopes of increasing adoptions.
After months of deliberation, the Chippewa County Humane Association will no longer have kennels open for viewing.
Staff conducted additional mapping and behavioral assessments throughout November, and they noted that on days when the shelter is open and strangers pass by the kennel, the dogs show more signs of intense anxiety.
This anxiety has led to certain behaviors that seem aggressive, such as excessive barking, chewing, or urinating in kennels. Officials say the behavior can have a chilling effect on adoption.
“We want the first impression to be better. You know, the happy ones wagging their tails, and like, ‘oh, I’m glad to see you’ instead of spinning and barking and ringing out of their minds. They’ It’s not like that. It’s just the stressful environment,” said Stacy Wiemer, kennel supervisor for the Chippewa County Humane Association.
Now the staff will speak with you first to discuss the type of dog you are looking for to determine which one best suits your lifestyle. There is also a bulletin board with the photos and biographies of the dogs. Then you will meet the pup one-on-one in a quiet environment. Staff believe this will lead to more forever homes and fewer returns.
