News Summary
The Mission Viejo Animal Services Center is launching ‘Wild Tunes’, a program aimed at using music to soothe shelter pets and enhance their well-being. Founded by a 12-year-old, the initiative encourages volunteer musicians to contribute their talents weekly. The program aims to create a calming environment for animals, boost their chances of adoption, and foster community involvement across Southern California. Musicians of all skill levels are invited to participate, helping pets feel more comfortable during their stay at the shelter while promoting positive interactions.
Mission Viejo Launches “Wild Tunes” Program for Shelter Animals
The Mission Viejo Animal Services Center in Orange County is set to unveil a new initiative called “Wild Tunes”, designed to help soothe shelter pets through the therapeutic power of music. The program will officially kick off on Tuesday, August 5, at noon.
Founded by 12-year-old Yuvi Agarwal from Texas in 2023, the initiative aims to improve the well-being of animals in shelters while increasing their chances for adoption. Agarwal’s belief is that music can create positive associations for stressed and abandoned pets, helping them feel more comfortable during their time in the shelter.
Volunteer Opportunities for Musicians
Wild Tunes is actively seeking volunteer musicians and singers of all experience levels to take part in the program. Volunteers are encouraged to perform each week for approximately one hour. The director of the animal services center, Brynn Lavison, hopes to attract both amateur and professional artists of all ages, fostering a diverse musical environment to benefit the animals.
Lavison noted that the program is part of the shelter’s broader enrichment efforts, which already include aromatherapy and handmade toys aimed at enhancing the lives of the pets. The intention of these initiatives is to provide positive human interactions and distractions for animals, particularly those who have been in care for extended periods.
First Volunteers and Participation Guidelines
The inaugural volunteer artist for the program is 15-year-old Kayden Tokarski, who performed songs including “Lost Boy” and “Rainbow.” This addition is anticipated to make a significant impact on both the animals and the shelter staff.
While Wild Tunes aims to provide a calming and enjoyable atmosphere for shelter pets, there are guidelines for instruments that may be used. Acceptable instruments include keyboard, violin, guitar, flute, and other string or wind instruments. Drums, chimes, and percussion instruments are prohibited, as they may cause anxiety among the animals.
To become a part of the Wild Tunes program, musicians must choose a shelter and complete necessary volunteer training prior to their performance. This requirement ensures that all participants are well-prepared to engage with the shelter environment and the animals.
Wider Community Involvement
Alongside the Mission Viejo Animal Services Center, other shelters in Southern California, including those in San Diego County and Los Angeles, are also participating in the Wild Tunes initiative. This collaborative effort aims to enhance the well-being of shelter animals across the region, while also encouraging community involvement.
Individuals interested in volunteering for the Wild Tunes program can find more information or register by visiting the center’s website or calling (949) 470-3045. Lavison emphasizes the program’s potential to not only enhance the lives of the animals but also to enrich the experiences of the staff and community members involved.
Conclusion
The introduction of Wild Tunes at the Mission Viejo Animal Services Center represents a creative approach to animal care that utilizes the therapeutic benefits of music to improve the lives of shelter pets and facilitate their adoption process. As the program gains momentum, it promises to become a staple of enrichment efforts in animal shelters across Southern California.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Mission Viejo Launches “Wild Tunes” Program for Shelter Animals
Mission Viejo Launches ‘Wild Tunes’ Program for Shelter Animals
Music Initiative Enhances Animal Welfare in Mission Viejo
Additional Resources
- NBC Los Angeles
- Wikipedia: Music Therapy
- Patch
- Google Search: Animal Shelter Music Program
- LAist
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Animal Shelter
- LAist – Mental Health Support
- Google News: Shelter Pets Music
