Leash on Hope is a therapeutic dog training program housed in the Dr. Bill & Lottie Garcia Family Canine Center, which provides Youthville's residential and community youth an opportunity to train and socialize with dogs who are awaiting adoption through the Ford County Humane Society.
All dog training is done using operant conditioning methods (commonly known as clicker training). These methods require the youth working with the dog to look for and acknowledge positive behaviors and teach the value and effectiveness of positive reinforcement. Training the dogs allows a child to practice relationship skills, while increasing the child's self-esteem and sense of competency. The situation of dogs in foster care in many ways mirrors the situation of some of the children participating in Youthville's program. This program will have a double impact, allowing a child who is normally on the receiving end of services to make a genuine contribution to the life of another.
Once each dog completes the Leash on Hope training program, they will be ready to be matched by the Ford County Humane Society with their forever home.
Leonard Schroeder, Interim Campus Director 11200 Lariat Way, PO Box 1394 Dodge City, KS 67801 800.593.1950 ext 3268lschroeder@youthville.org
REFERRALSLibby Tamas, Account Services Representative 800.593.1950 ext 8160ltamas@youthville.org
ADMISSIONMichelle Jordan, Placement Coordinator 800.593.1950 ext 8147admission@youthville.org