Last week, we had the privilege of hosting Dogs Playing for Life (DPFL) for an intensive, hands-on training focused on the life-changing power of dog playgroups. This multi-day training was designed specifically for our staff and volunteers, and it delivered more than just valuable skills; it reinvigorated our commitment to providing the best behavioral support and enrichment for the dogs in our care.

Leading the training were Max and Kylie, DPFL’s Lead Trainer and Presenter, both of whom brought deep expertise, contagious enthusiasm, and a genuine passion for helping dogs thrive in shelter environments. Under their guidance, our team learned how to safely and effectively introduce dogs to one another, interpret canine body language, and manage playgroup dynamics to ensure safe and enriching interactions. Their instruction emphasized that playgroups aren’t just about giving dogs time to play; they’re an essential tool for understanding a dog’s behavior, reducing kennel stress, and helping dogs become more adoptable.

Over several days, Max and Kylie led our team through a combination of classroom-style learning, live demonstrations, and hands-on work with dogs in the play yard. Staff and volunteers were able to observe dogs in different stages of social comfort, learning how to assess readiness, monitor body language, and make thoughtful decisions to support each dog. Watching shy or reactive dogs come out of their shells, engage with their peers, and experience joy in the yard was truly inspiring.

One key takeaway from the training was how playgroups can be used as a diagnostic tool, helping us learn more about a dog’s energy level, social skills, and communication style. These insights will enable our team to create more effective behavioral profiles, make more informed adoption matches, and identify which dogs may benefit from additional support or enrichment. This training also equipped our volunteers with new confidence and clarity in working with dogs of varying needs, enabling them to play a more active and informed role in enriching the lives of the dogs. Max and Kylie even took time to tailor their guidance to the specific layout and daily operations of HSVC, ensuring that the techniques and routines they shared could be realistically and sustainably implemented in our shelter. Their support was hands-on, practical, and encouraging, leaving our team not only more knowledgeable but truly empowered.

We are deeply grateful to Dogs Playing for Life for sharing their time, talent, and heart with us. Max and Kylie’s leadership made a lasting impression, and their visit has already sparked new energy among our staff and volunteers. Playgroups will now become a more consistent and intentional part of our daily routine, helping dogs relieve stress, build social confidence, and, most importantly, just be dogs. At HSVC, we believe that a shelter should be a place of hope and healing, not just a temporary stop. Thanks to DPFL’s training, we’re even better equipped to provide an environment where dogs can thrive while they wait for their forever families. We’re excited to continue putting these new skills into practice and look forward to the brighter, more joyful days ahead for the animals we serve.