Training Videos and Resources

Thanks to a grant from the Pedigree Foundation, VHS staff and volunteers undertook a project to create basic training resources to help shelter workers and Vieques animal lovers learn to give their animals more training and enrichment.

Basic training is crucial for dogs because it helps improve behavior, safety, and the bond between you and your dog. Here’s why it matters:

1. Better Behavior: Commands like "sit" and "stay" prevent undesirable actions and make your dog easier to manage.

2. Safety: Reliable commands, like "come" and "stay," keep your dog safe in risky situations.

3. Stronger Bond: Training builds trust and communication between you and your dog.

4. Mental Stimulation: Learning commands keeps your dog’s mind engaged and reduces boredom.

5. Prevents Problems: Well-trained dogs are less likely to develop behavioral issues.

6. Socialization: Training exposes your dog to new people and environments, promoting confidence.

In short, basic training is key to a happy, healthy, and well-behaved dog.

Enrichment is vital for dogs because it promotes their mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Dogs need more than just food and shelter—they thrive on activities that challenge their minds, fulfill their instincts, and provide exercise. Here’s why it matters:

1. Mental Stimulation: Keeps dogs’ brains active, preventing boredom and undesirable behaviors like chewing or barking.

2. Behavioral Benefits: Reduces problem behaviors by providing positive outlets for energy.

3. Physical Exercise: Helps maintain fitness, preventing obesity and supporting joint health.

4. Bonding: Strengthens the relationship between you and your dog through interactive play and training.

5. Instinct Fulfillment: Meets dogs’ natural needs (like hunting or retrieving) through engaging activities.

6. Stress Relief: Reduces anxiety by offering structure and mental challenges.

Enrichment activities, like puzzle toys, training, playtime, or scent games, help dogs stay happy, healthy, and well-behaved.

Please enjoy browsing our videos and resources, and stay tuned for more to come!