More than tricks & treats

Oct 21, 2025

Many dogs and cats arrive at PAWS not knowing what it’s like to be in a loving home — or the gentle routines of family life. It’s our training team’s job to introduce these animals to the joys of companionship and to teach them how to exist in a world where they’re loved and valued.

The first step in their journey is an assessment to determine their unique personality and any potential challenges in a home setting. The animal behavior team at PAWS develops an action plan for each animal to help overcome any challenges and build on any skills they may have – like crate training, basic commands or housebreaking.  

Dogs like Macaroni, a one-year-old mixed-breed with boundless energy, often come through our doors. “Macaroni is learning how to navigate the world around him. Sights and sounds can be overwhelming, but with patience and gentle guidance, he’s beginning to find his confidence,” PAWS Assistant Director of Animal Behavior Jordan Michaels shared.  

Our team enrolled Macaroni in our Relaxing Reactivity class to help him build the skills he needs to handle stressful situations. We also began to implement a steady, predictable routine in a foster home to give him the sense of security he craves—because we all feel better when we know what to expect. 

Over the next few months, our team worked closely with Macaroni and his fosters to implement and evolve this plan, and the progress was incredible. “When Macaroni first arrived at PAWS, the world felt like a lot for him to handle. But with time, training, and love, he’s learned to trust and focus. He proudly shows off his sit, down, and hand touch, and he’s working on stay and place. Between play groups and regular training classes, Macaroni is blossoming,” Jordan shared.

But dogs aren’t the only pets that benefit from training. Holly, a seven-year-old tabby cat, came to PAWS after being shuffled between multiple homes. Naturally, trust was her biggest challenge.  

“When Holly first came to PAWS, she was unsure about people—hissing, swatting, and yowling at anyone who tried to get close,” shared Adoptions Coordinator Haylee Keller. “But in just four short weeks, she’s gone from anxious to confident, now running up for affection and soaking up every chin and head scratch.” 

Holly’s transformation came through patience, consistency, and clicker training—building trust one tiny moment at a time. She now greets her friends with nose “boops,” high fives, and a perfect sit—proof of just how powerful training and trust can be. 

Through patience and training, Macaroni and Holly both learned the skills they needed to find happiness. And they did! Today, both Macaroni and Holly are happily adopted and soaking up every moment with their new families.  

Are you thinking about adopting a pet from PAWS Chicago? Please consider a furry friend who still needs some training. With your help and the help of PAWS Chicago’s many virtual and in-person training classes, you can be an integral part of their transformation—an experience you’ll hold in your heart forever.