Pawsitive Vibes: Youth-Led Shelter Enrichment & Public Advocacy

A student spending quiet time with a shelter dog at DCHS

Darlington County Humane Society

Pawsitive Vibes Program Application

Thank you for your interest in Pawsitive Vibes! This six-week program gives students a chance to learn about animal care, practice compassion, and help tell the stories of dogs who have been waiting the longest for homes. We want to hear your own thoughts and experiences.

Student Information

Please have the student answer the questions in their own words. A few sentences per question is plenty.

Student First Name *

Student Last Name *

Email Address *

Confirm email *

Phone Number *

Where do you go to school? *

What grade are you in? *

1. Logistics & Availability

Can you participate in the full six-week program?

Yes *

I have a possible conflict I would like to discuss *

If you know of any conflicts, please list them here.

Do you have reliable transportation to and from DCHS for scheduled sessions?

Yes *

I would like to discuss this *

2. Animal Safety & Respect Agreement

I understand that students must follow staff instructions at all times, ask permission before interacting with any animal, and respect an animal’s need for space. I also understand that some enrichment and advocacy activities will help animals without direct physical contact.

I have read and agree to the Animal Safety Agreement. *

Student Signature

Date *

3. Understanding Animals & Empathy

Answer the following questions in a few sentences.

Shelter animals often feel scared or overwhelmed in a kennel environment. If you notice a dog hiding in the back of its kennel or avoiding eye contact, how would you approach or interact with them? *

Imagine being in a new, loud, and unfamiliar place where you don't speak the language. What kind of support or reassurance would help you feel safe? How do you think that applies to shelter animals? *

Sometimes an anxious dog might take a long time to warm up to someone. How do you handle situations where progress takes patience and quiet waiting rather than quick action? *

4. Kindness & Compassion in Action

What does showing “kindness” to an animal mean to you personally? Can you share an example of a time you showed kindness to a pet or wild animal?

In this program, you will be working closely with other students and shelter staff. How do you show compassion and encouragement to a teammate who might be feeling frustrated or overwhelmed? *

A major focus of this program is creating social media advocacy for the 15 dogs that have been at the shelter the longest. What makes you care about helping animals that are often overlooked or passed by? *

5. Fear Free Readiness & Motivation

Fear Free care requires us to put the animal's emotional comfort ahead of our desire to pet or cuddle them. How easy or difficult do you think it will be to adjust your behavior based on what an animal is feeling? *

Working with shelter animals can sometimes bring up strong emotions, especially when working with long-term residents. How do you usually care for yourself or seek support when dealing with sad or tough situations? *

Why do you want to give two days a week for six weeks to this specific DCHS program? What do you hope to learn or contribute? *