Lewis & Clark Humane Society Receives Grant from ASPCA

Funds Will Support Additional Training for Shelter Dog Behaviorists

June 10, 2011

The Lewis & Clark Humane Society (LCHS) received a $3,200 grant from the ASPCA to support additional training for their two dog behavior consultants, it was announced today by shelter officials.

The competitive grant was awarded to the shelter by the national animal welfare organization in recognition of the need for continuing education in dog behavior and training techniques, LCHS Executive Director Gina Wiest said.

“We are grateful to the ASPCA, a national funder, for recognizing the needs of a small, rural animal shelter and its staff. One of the main reasons dogs are given up to the humane society is because of behavior issues,” Wiest said. “There are several results-oriented programs that our two on-staff dog trainers will now be able to attend due to the generosity of the ASPCA, and these staff will be able to pass on to our dogs the new techniques they learn as a result of this training.”

Additionally, Wiest noted that this additional training will allow the shelter to offer more courses to the public in the next year on how to deal with common behavioral issues.

“The shelter wants to help the community learn how to have the best possible relationship with their four-footed friends. Education is a key component of our mission, so this ASPCA grant is timely and relevant for our organizational goals,” Wiest noted.

The shelter cares for approximately 2,000 animals a year, from strays to owner turn-ins to animals rescued in cruelty cases brought by law enforcement. For more information about the shelter and the dog training program, please call the shelter at 442-1660 or visit the website: www.mtlchs.org