PALs (Providing Animals Love) is a team of volunteers who work together to provide consistent, targeted training to select dogs who need extra help in finding loving homes. With input from shelter staff and professional trainers, PALs members meet to assess behavioral or other issues that might be obstacles to adoption, set training goals, and agree on activities to most effectively achieve those goals.

Schedules are coordinated so that the dog is visited by at least one team member daily, and the group continually communicates their progress and observations via e-mail, making adjustments as needed. Presently, the group selects two dogs to work with simultaneously – typically one small and one large breed – so that members at all skill levels have a dog they can feel comfortable handling.

In addition to training and socialization, the PALs team also acts as a cheerleading squad for their chosen dogs. We post banners and flyers, as well as hold special events to showcase the dogs and introduce them to prospective adopters.

Started in November 1999 by two dedicated volunteers who believed that many more hard-to-place dogs could be saved if they received consistent training, socialization and affection, PALs has worked with over 110 dogs who’ve been adopted to date. In the process, many of us have made lifelong friends who share our deep commitment to and love for animals.

We welcome all interested IACC volunteers who’ve completed the required shelter orientation and training to join us! The time commitment is very flexible and based on whatever suits your schedule. No prior experience with dogs is required – we value input and participation from individuals at every skill level who share our common goal of helping more deserving animals, especially the “overlooked” ones, find their forever families.