Innovative sheltering approach prioritizes animal wellness, enrichment, and successful adoptions
Tails Together is redefining animal sheltering through a comprehensive, best-practice model that prioritizes the physical and emotional well-being of every pet in its care. By implementing industry-leading standards, Tails Together is helping animals thrive while they await adoption.
At the core of all care is treating a shelter pet as a beloved homed pet until they find a family of their own. From nutrition, to medical care, to mental enrichment, each and every pet is treated with the same level of daily love and care that a family pet receives.
MEDICAL CARE
At the time of adoption, every Tails Together pet will be spayed or neutered, up to date on age appropriate vaccinations, preventatives for flea, tick, and heartworm, have a microchip, and pets over 6 months* are tested for heartworm (dogs) and FeLV/FIV (cats).
*this test is inaccurate in cats under 6 months and is recommended to be done after this age
Spay and neuter is legally required for adoption and is the most effective long-term solution to overpopulation in shelters. Tails Together uses high-volume spay/neuter veterinary practices and professionals, resulting in smaller incisions, faster healing times, and lower risks of complications.
NUTRITION
Tails Together is proud to be the first shelter partner for NutriSource, a family-owned and operated, high-quality pet food brand. NutriSource donates all food and treats to feed the shelter’s pets, ensuring every dog and cat receives premium nutrition comparable to what they would enjoy in a loving home.
NutriSource provides a variety of treats and food to accommodate a range of needs, as well as a limited-ingredient line for sensitive stomachs. Proper nutrition is the basis of good health and treats are the best communication tool in shelter environments, serving important roles in training, enrichment, and medical care.
IN-SHELTER CARE
Within the shelter, animals benefit from thoughtfully designed spaces that resemble a home environment. Calming music, soothing scents, and comfortable animal suites help reduce stress and promote emotional wellness.
Tails Together is committed to using only positive reinforcement and Fear Free training and handling methods. Every staff member and volunteer is certified in Fear Free practices, ensuring that all interactions are designed to minimize anxiety and build trust. Dedicated volunteers engage with pets throughout the day, providing companionship, enrichment, and individualized attention.
Daily meals are given in puzzle feeders and volunteers provide multiple walks and socialization sessions throughout the day, all supplemented with daily enrichment to prioritize mental and physical health.
Tails Together’s physical shelter is a cage-free facility, but most of the animals reside in foster homes, which remains a priority for the shelter. Foster homes allow for valuable insight on pets’ personalities, behaviors, and needs to create successful, lasting matches between pets and families.
“At Tails, we believe every animal deserves to experience comfort, compassion, and quality care while waiting for a family,” said Tails Together CEO and Founder Kristina Rosinia. “Our goal is not simply to shelter animals, but to help them thrive and prepare them for successful lives in their forever homes.”
By combining foster-based care, Fear Free practices, enrichment-focused programming, comprehensive veterinary services, and premium nutrition, Tails Together offers a model for what modern animal welfare can and should look like.