The Special Needs Program at the Southampton Animal Shelter is dedicated to treating dogs with special problems, so that they can become more adoptable. These special problems range from physical disabilities, such as amputations, birth defects, muscle weakness, neurological deficits or orthopedic pre and post op rehabilitation. Other special needs could be psychological, including depression, anxiety, shyness, fear, and aggression.

These dogs are referred to the department by the medical staff or the trainers. An initial evaluation is done and a program is planned based on the diagnosis and the dog’s specific personality.

The treatment takes place in a home-like environment with furniture, flowers, rugs and music. We use training stairs, massage mats, treadmills and toys. Music is played to help the dogs relax. When the weather permits, the animals are taken on car rides, trips to town, excursions to the beach and shopping. The more exposure the better.

The dog’s progress is noted and any additional problems are passed along to the staff. All other departments are encouraged to communicate with our staff. Usually the dogs are treated individually, but when socialization is a problem, they are treated together with a compatible dog.

In summary, most dogs who live in a shelter have special needs. But some have needs that might interfere with adoption. The goal of this department is to help these dogs to eliminate these problems so that they can go to their “forever home”.

Special Needs Graduates!