FALL 2022
THE HAVEN
News
IN THIS
ISSUE
SHELTER RECEIVES AWARD DOG TRAINING TIPS HAPPY TAILS VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT GIVE FROM YOUR WILL
559 S. Section St. • Fairhope, AL • (P) 251.929.3980 • www.havenforanimals.org
THE HAVEN NO-KILL SHELTER RECEIVES TOP SHELTER AWARD The Haven for Animals was selected as a Top Shelter in the U.S. from MuttNation and received a $5,000 Mutts Across America Grant. The grants are awarded annually to one exemplary shelter in each state. Founded in 2014 by Miranda Lambert’s mother, Bev Lambert, the grants have totaled over a quarter-million dollars. Co-sponsor of the program is Tractor Supply Company. The Haven, the first no-kill animal shelter in Baldwin County, focuses on preventing euthanasia of healthy and treatable cats and dogs in area shelters. Since 2000, over 10,800 homeless cats and dogs have found loving homes. The nonprofit works with like-minded rescue groups and government animal control shelters to end pet homelessness.
Upon receiving the great news, Michael Graham, Executive Director of The Haven, remarked, “We are very proud to receive a Top Shelter in the U. S. recognition from MuttNation. It demonstrates that our agency’s comprehensive lifesaving programs continue to positively impact the people and homeless pets of Fairhope and surrounding communities. The special award would not be possible without our dedicated donors, our team of good board members, the City of Fairhope, Mayor Sherry Sullivan, volunteers, and our small staff.
Thanks to MuttNation and Tractor Supply for their support.
From Left to right: James Tucker, Haven Animal Care Tech.; Kasey Cotten, Haven Office Manager; Stephanie Calhoun, Haven Board President; Katherine Ono, Haven Vice President; Fairhope Mayor Sherry Sullivan; Michael Graham, Haven Executive Director; Jenny Williams, Haven Board Member
DOG TRAINING TIPS Creating a bond with your new puppy or adult dog is an important part of building a lasting relationship.
play can cause behavioral issues. These undesirable behaviors include anxiety, aggression, and whining.
Here are just a few ways to build a stronger bond with your wonderful new family member:
B rushing and grooming your dog helps you grow closer by building trust.
T raining is a great way to build a bond with your dog. Choose a basic behavior or something more complex, but remember not to make training sessions too long. Look for tips from your veterinarian or online resources.
onsistent positive communication is an important part C of creating a strong bond with your dog. Make sure you are using the same words and non-verbal signals when training.
E xercise with your pet by walking, running, or even going for a swim!
reate a peaceful environment in your home. Use a C crate or a dog bed in another room, where your dog can retreat in case they need to get away for a while if they feel overwhelmed or want to stay away from loud houseguests.
reating a routine helps your dog understand C expectations. Having the same feeding time and bathroom breaks make your dog feel comfortable in their new home. P lay time increases the bond with your pet as well. Dogs need to engage in fun activities to be mentally and physically fit. Research has found that a lack of
When you take the time to bond with your dog, it shows him how much you care and how important he is to you and the whole family.
Happy TAILS Brad andJasper Brad was hoping to get another service dog, after his previous, elderly Haven dog, Harley, sadly passed away. The only problem was that he was in Minneapolis. Luckily, on a quick trip to Florida, he stopped by The Haven in Alabama and met his new best friend and Emotional Support Dog, Jasper. Jasper is a lively 6-month-old hound mix who loves his new friend and home. “I take him to the park and also an open field
to run around off-leash. He loves it! We also go for a walk in the evening. He hasn’t seen snow yet, so that will be a new experience for him.” While Brad completes his master’s degree online, Jasper keeps him company.
Izzy Coraline, a stray cat, was brought to The Haven and was obviously on her own for quite a while. She was sweet and loved the attention, so she was clearly someone’s pet in the past. According to Alecia, Adoption Coordinator, “Coraline was about ten years old and quickly became a favorite at the shelter, with her cute little chirp meow and her “love nips.” She loved to be held! When Amy Boles brought her mother-in-law, Sue, to The Haven to look for a lap cat for Sue, a lap cat is what she found in Coraline. Coraline settled comfortably into Sue’s lap for brushing. Amy said, “My mother-in-law is loving her new companion – now named Izzy! Whenever I go over to visit, I find them snuggled in “their” favorite recliner. They are certainly the perfect pair. Thank you for adding some sunshine into Sue’s life! I had not seen her smile so big as when she brought Izzy home from the shelter. The fact that you provided everything we needed to get started was a great bonus. We are very thankful to have such a sweet shelter in our community!”
He was thrilled with The Haven’s ability to help him find his new pet companion.
