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 every shelter animal as a beloved pet until they find a family of their own. From nutrition, to medical care, to mental enrichment, each and every Tails animal is treated with the same level of daily love and care that a family pet receives.
MEDICAL CARE
Every animal adopted through Tails Together is provided with appropriate medical care inclusive of age appropriate vaccinations, preventatives for flea, tick, and heartworm, a microchip for identification, and pets over 6 months* are tested for heartworm (dogs) and FeLV/FIV (cats).
Spay and neuter is legally required for adoption and is the most effective long-term solution to overpopulation in shelters. Tails Together performs hormone saving procedures and titer testing to avoid unnecessary medical care or complications, pursuing best in class solutions for our animals.
Additionally, Tails Together partners with local professionals for grooming, physical therapy, massage, and nutritional care support, providing customized care for what every animal needs.
*these tests are considered inaccurate under 6 months
NUTRITION
Tails Together is proud to be the first rescue partner for NutriSource, a family-owned and operated, high-quality pet food brand. NutriSource donates food and treats to feed Tails’ pets, ensuring every dog and cat receives premium nutrition as they would enjoy in a loving home.
“They are a genuinely independent, family-owned business, not driven by corporate or private equity interests,” says Tails Advisory Board member Angie Demars, “You can feel their genuine passion for animals and their commitment to quality in everything they do. We couldn’t ask for a better fit.”
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 foundation of good health and as a fear free shelter, we utilize treats and food 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 such as lick mats, chews, and toys, 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 Co-Founder Kristina Rosinia. “Our goal is not simply to rescue 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, forward thinking veterinary services, and premium nutrition, Tails Together offers a model for what modern animal welfare can and should look like.