Dogs who have been at the shelter for an unduly long period may suffer from frustration and stress often labeled "kennel crazy." This can happen to dogs of all types, and it is important to maintain as calm an atmosphere as possible to diffuse this undirected and sometimes misdirected energy.

Please try to incorporate the following techniques for the betterment of all the dogs:

1. Read and observe all signs and symbols on each individual kennel

2. Do not enter a kennel until the dog is sitting or has all paws on the floor.

3. Do not remove a dog from his/her kennel unless the dog is sitting or has all paws on the floor

4. Keep the dog close to you when entering and exiting. Do not let the dog out in front of you.

5. If you are an inexperienced walker or under the age of 21, keep a choke chain and leash on

   "Experienced Walker" (EW) designated dogs at all times when out of the kennel.

6. If you enter a play pen with such a dog, you can allow that dog to run and romp with his  
    leash still attached. It will slow them down jus t a bit and you can stop them and retrieve
    them by stepping on the leash.

7.  Do not play tug of war with EW dogs. It encourages tenacity, which is not always desirable.

8. For playing fetch with a dog who has not learned to release the ball/toy on command, use
    two or more items. Encourage the dog to "drop it" before tossing the other item.

9.  Be aware of dogs who focus on or stare at other dogs with intensity. Change their focus or
     turn the other direction.

10.  Do not leave children unattended in play pens with dogs.

11.  Walkers under age 18 must be accompanied by a parent at all times while walking dogs.

12. Parents must maintain control of the dogs, including getting them in and out of kennels

13.  We want all the dogs to get outside daily. It is better for all dogs to have longer leash walks
      than to simply roam around the play pens or to get overly excited.

14.  We have been given permission to walk dogs across the street from our shelter in the 84
      Auction parking lot. WE MUST CLEAN UP AFTER THE DOGS to maintain this privilege.

15.  If you are uncertain about a specific dog, check with staff.

16.  See How to break up a dog fight

16.  Report all incidents or accidents to staff immediately.