16d • General discussion
Learning From a Shelter That’s Getting It Right
I’ve been really inspired by the adoption success of Bide Awhile Animal Shelter in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia.
At times, they’ve had no animals waiting because adoptions happen so quickly. That doesn’t come from one magic trick. It comes from how deeply connected they are to their community.
Here are a few things that seem to be working beautifully for them:
🐾 Adoption is part of the local culture, supported by consistent education and outreach, so people actively look to adopt and show up quickly when animals are posted.
🐾 They focus on thoughtful matching rather than rushed placement, taking the time to pair animals with homes that truly fit their needs, which builds trust and long-term success.
🐾 Their adoption process is clear and supportive, so people know exactly how to adopt, what to expect, and what steps to take, reducing confusion and increasing follow-through.
🐾 They reduce fear around senior and special-needs pets by offering supportive programs like foster incentives and help with medical care.
What stands out to me is this: their success is rooted in community participation, not just shelter effort.
I’d love to hear from you:
- What could this look like in your area?
- What ideas have you seen work locally, even on a small scale?
- Are there barriers you wish shelters or rescues could help remove?
- What would make adoption easier or more inviting in your community?
There’s no single right answer. Sometimes the most powerful ideas come from lived experience and shared conversation.
Looking forward to learning from you. 🐾💗
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Learning From a Shelter That’s Getting It Right
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