#54: The Mod Squad
All of HAWS’ volunteers are crucial to us. There is one group, though, that is so unique we’ve trained other shelters how to create their own!
The Mod Squad is a group of specially-trained volunteers that acts within our Behavior department to assess and work with HAWS’ adoptable and not-quite-ready-to-adopt dogs, both while the dogs are in the shelter and out in foster homes. With the number of dogs in our care, this group is the additional eyes and ears of our Behavior department employees, plus they work alongside our caretakers to ensure our dogs are receiving the enrichment they need.
Because of HAWS’ Mod Squad, even the work-in-progress dogs are able to leave the shelter for outings to local businesses. With a Squad member as their advocate and handler, a reactive or shy dog can try a social situation – and quickly be given the unique support they need to succeed. Many long-term dogs have seen remarkable behavior changes because a Mod Squad member was able to devote one-on-one time to that dog.
These volunteers have gotten special training through HAWS with our Behavior team. Some even have college degrees in animal behavior and have chosen this as their way to help and give back.
Many of HAWS adoption success stories start with the crew in the bright orange shirts!