I spent most of the day yesterday at the Washington Animal Rescue League, touring their amazing facility. They have reinvented the notion of what an animal shelter should be, and what it should offer. We were given our tour by the Executive Director Scotlund Haisley, a most amazing man. This guy travelled the world looking for better ideas to house and help our furry friends, and discovered cages with bars drove the dogs insane. He studied human prisons, talked with experts, added waterfalls and smooth jazz, and in general has built a model program and facility. Here is what his fluff bio piece says on the WARL website:
Recently Scotlund has been responsible for the success of many WARL projects, most recently conceptualizing and overseeing the League’s renovation project, which will create a comfortable “cageless” shelter, enabling animals to transition more smoothly into loving homes. In addition to launching one of the world’s most progressive and ambitious shelter renovations, Scotlund has also improved the quality of lives of WARL animals through simple measures. He has paired compatible dogs in adjoining cages, encouraged sociable cats to wander the cat room, exercised animals more frequently, and employed a dog trainer and animal massage therapist. All of these changes make our shelter animals happier and more socialized which, in turn, results in more successful adoptions. In addition, Scotlund implemented a more stringent adoption process, including a visit to the prospective guardian’s home. This visit educates the adopter on the animal’s specific needs.
This is some cool stuff, it's a cool way to run a volunteer program, and it's a pleasure to meet people who are passionate about their mission. I was inspired, and almost brought home a beagle! Here is their link, do check them out:
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