Epic arrived at Detroit Dog Rescue (DDR) in terrible shape, with severe neck wounds likely from wearing a too-small collar for too long. His story is a poignant example of the challenges many dogs face before finding sanctuary at DDR. Founded by Kristina Millman-Rinaldi, this no-kill shelter promises calm and love for all its residents, starting with a much-needed bath.
Bath time can be stressful for dogs, especially those who’ve endured abuse and hardship. To make it easier for dogs like Epic, Millman-Rinaldi and her team use a simple trick: they smear peanut butter on the shower walls. This approach, called “Peanut Butter Bath Time,” helps the dogs focus on the tasty treat rather than their fears, associating bath time with something positive.
“We go through so much peanut butter at Detroit Dog Rescue! Over 40 jars per month,” Millman-Rinaldi said. Jif is their preferred brand, and they buy the largest jars they can find. For Millman-Rinaldi, this mission is deeply personal. She was abused as a child and remembers the anxiety of new and uncomfortable situations. She also remembers the people who helped her through those times. Now, she and her staff play that role for dogs like Echo.
“I’ve been right where these dogs are. A lot of people on our staff have felt like these dogs, so we do everything possible to make them feel confident and loved,” she said.
It takes patience, it takes enrichment, it takes thinking outside of the box. And a lot of peanut butter. So much peanut butter.”
The 40 jars of peanut butter are not just for bathing. With nearly 90 dogs in residence, DDR uses peanut butter and other treats like cheese to make every activity and training session, even medical procedures, enjoyable. “Detroit Dog Rescue’s entire animal care program is centered around positive reinforcement and force-free handling,” Millman-Rinaldi said.
This approach helps the dogs at DDR feel secure and cared for, transforming their lives from ones of pain and fear to ones filled with love and comfort. For Millman-Rinaldi, every jar of peanut butter used is a small step towards healing for dogs like Epic and Echo. And if you’d like to donate to Detroit Dog Rescue, feel free. Watch below for the shelter’s other peanut butter ideas for a delicious doggy treat.
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Source: The Dodo
