Dogs at a Rhode Island animal shelter will now get the chance to connect with their future guardians in an outdoor play area, thanks to the ingenuity and compassion of a local troop of Boy Scouts.
This initiative, led by 17-year-old Norman Decelles, is a shining example of the positive impact just a single person can have on animal welfare.
“When it came for him to do his Eagle Project, I knew it would revolve around animals,” Michele Decelles, the Scout’s mother, told Lady Freethinker. “We go once a year to St. Marteen and while on vacation, he volunteers at the animal shelter.” After visiting Cumberland Animal Control and brainstorming with the officers, he realized the shelter needed an outdoor play area — and quickly set to work on making the idea a reality.
This initiative provides a safe and enjoyable space for meet and greets between the pups and people.
“The dog will always act differently if they’re in a cage and you’re behind a wall, and you don’t really get to have that much hands-on experience with the animals,” Norman Decelles said.
Providing time for dogs to play outside is not just a luxury, it’s a necessity. Extended periods of living in a shelter can lead to increased anxiety and stress for any animal. With shelters across the country reaching capacity, any initiative that can help the dogs feel calmer and more relaxed — thereby facilitating their connection and bonding with future families — is a great idea.
Some might wonder about the community’s cats. Following the success of the dog’s play area, the shelter is now considering the addition of a “catio.” If built, the cat-friendly space could inspire similar initiatives in other shelters.
Lady Freethinker commends the Scouts’ compassionate plan and resourcefulness in providing a space for dogs to show their true personalities and find their forever families sooner.
