Puppy Love

by Elizabeth Dengler


Have you been looking for a special addition to the family? A cuddly companion or a hiking buddy? Then, check out SCRAPS. We had the opportunity to tour the entire facility with Joanne Meleney, the SCRAPS volunteer coordinator. And we are so excited to share with you their commitment to animals and pet owners.



Did you know that SCRAPS takes in ALL the homeless, abused and stray domesticated animals from Spokane Co. including horses, cows, sheep, rabbits, chickens and pigs?! They have over a 90% save rate for cats and dogs and are deemed a no-kill shelter. Every animal receives full medical treatment and is cared for by vets, volunteers, and foster families until they find their forever home. SCRAPS impounds over 10,000 animals every year, with a slight decrease last year.



The SCRAPS Hope Foundation was set up as their 5013C non-profit. They rely heavily on donations and accept money, supplies and volunteers. SCRAPS is the only open-admission shelter, only enforcement agency, and a community partner.



With a commitment to promote responsible pet ownership they offer free dog training on the first and third Saturdays of the month. You can bring in your dog or puppy and the trainers will work with your specific training needs. Furthering that commitment is a food bank with cat and dog food along with litter and other necessities. Microchipping is provided for just $10 and they offer low-cost vaccinations for your pets.


Kevin Vanhook, from the SCRAPS Behavior Team, introducing Payton to Josh and Stella Dengler.


Not quite ready to make a commitment to adopt? You can hang out with a dog for a day in their Dog Meets World program. This unique opportunity requires watching a training video and program approval. Then you can take a dog on a field trip, or hang out with them on your couch, go for a walk at the park, etc. It’s like a day foster program.


We got the opportunity to hang out with Payton. What a sweetie! Kevin Vanhook, one of the behavior specialists told us that Payton hasn’t been all that lucky with having a family that loves him. But you’d never know it! He hung out with Josh, 9 and Stella, 11. Payton didn’t bark once and didn’t jump. He was curious and boy did he love treats and giving kisses! Stella was somewhat surprised when she crouched in front of him to give him some ear scratches and Payton gave her a big smooch.



How can you adopt? You can come to their location at 6815 E Trent Spokane Valley or to one of their monthly offsite adoption events at Petco and Petsmart. How can you support SCRAPS? They accept donations of money and supplies dropped off at their location during their operating hours. You can follow SCRAPS on Facebook to see pictures of all the furry friends and who knows, maybe you’ll find a match!


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