Published 21st October 2022
You might not know this, but we often refer to our staff as Kennel Mums! We would of course have Kennel Dads too, but as you can see from the photos, we currently have an all-female team of Kennel Assistants (with one exception, Alex, our Kennel Grand-Daddy who oversees the team of assistants).
Our staff work hard to build relationships with the animals that come into our care, and because a lot of time is spent together these can be long lasting, with new owners often bringing in their dogs to visit their Kennel Mums months and even years after them finding their furrever homes. The dogs remember the staff that have cared for them, as they build a bond during their time here.
Dogs can be very nervous on arrival here at LAA. Whether they have been stray, neglected, or even come from a loving home where their owners sadly can no longer care for them, the dogs can still be understandably apprehensive of new surroundings. Can you imagine having a new home overnight, with different people, a change in routine and lots of new sights and sounds to take in? The team work on training our dogs and combine this with enrichment activities such as treat puzzles and fun agility, to ensure that the dog’s confidence and trust in humans is built up slowly and gently. Dogs who are able, have regular walks and exercise, and of course playtime with their Kennel Mums. They are also socialised and walked together for those who like the company of other dogs. This helps our team assess whether they could be re-homed within a household that already has pets.
Our staff work very hard to give the dogs a safe and healthy environment in preparation for finding homes. Whilst caring for the dogs, Kennel Mums become very fond of them, and they can usually recall the names and details of dogs they have cared for since they have been here if shown a photo – it is quite impressive and very heart-warming!
Leicester Animal Aid is a rescue and rehoming centre for dogs and cats. Every year, we care for more than 400 dogs and cats who are lost, abandoned, neglected, unwanted or relinquished because their owners can no longer look after them.
We rely on the generosity of people like you to keep our doors open to the hundreds of animals who need our help.