Disclaimer: Donations made go toward the Change host website; funds do not go directly toward the cause of this petition. We, the undersigned, respectfully urge the San Jose Animal Care Center to immediately lift the current restrictions on in-kennel enrichment for dogs, which prohibit the use of plush toys, high-value chew items like pig ears and bully sticks, and limit comfort items for dogs identified as “shredders.” These restrictions, announced on May 21st in response to flooding and drainage issues, unfairly shift the burden of operational shortcomings onto the animals—animals who already endure extended confinement and high stress levels. Enrichment is a foundational part of humane sheltering, not an optional add-on. According to the Association of Shelter Veterinarians’ Guidelines for Standards of Care in Animal Shelters (Section 9.5.4), enrichment must be “varied, frequent, and tailored to individual needs,” including comfort, sensory stimulation, and feeding enrichment. Removing these essential tools goes against national best practices and compromises the well-being of dogs already facing prolonged isolation in kennels. Since the restrictions were implemented, volunteers have noticed puppies left without toys and dogs trying to cope with heightened kennel stress by digging into costly donated Kuranda beds and tearing what little bedding remains. These are clear signs of unmet emotional and cognitive needs. It is deeply concerning that further reductions—such as eliminating all blankets—may be considered next. Dogs are sentient beings. They require mental stimulation, comfort, and consistency to remain healthy and adoptable during their stay in the shelter. We acknowledge previous collaboration efforts between the Volunteer Coordinator and volunteers, but these efforts have been ambiguous and have failed to produce meaningful results. The requirement for case-by-case permission to provide dog toys or comfort items creates impractical challenges for volunteers. Many now feel apprehensive about unintentionally breaking the rules by simply offering a toy. This environment of uncertainty can lead to tension that some volunteers may find uncomfortable or intimidating. The shelter must end these restrictive policies and restore access to enrichment activities, including toys and long-lasting chews, which volunteers prepare and deliver daily. At the same time, we ask the shelter to be transparent: What steps have been taken to clean and maintain the drainage system properly? Have drain guards or filters been installed? Are routine maintenance and cleaning protocols in place to prevent future backups? Flooding and facility upkeep are infrastructure issues. These problems must be addressed at the source—not by depriving shelter dogs of stimulation and comfort. Please join us in advocating for humane, enrichment-based care. Sign this petition to demand the immediate reinstatement of enrichment items and practices that directly support the emotional health and adoptability of the dogs in our care.