What are your favorite enrichment activities for foster pets?

Fostering pets, especially those from shelters, means providing a stimulating environment for them. I’ve fostered both dogs and cats, and while I’ve used some common enrichment activities, I’m eager to discover new ideas to make their stay more enjoyable. For instance, puzzle feeders and scent games have worked well for me, but I’d love to hear what others have found effective.

The main goal is to keep these pets engaged as they adjust to their temporary homes. Enrichment activities not only reduce stress but can also lead to better behavior. For those of you with fostering experience, what activities do you rely on? Have you discovered anything particularly helpful for shy or anxious pets? I’m looking forward to your suggestions!

Have you tried using cardboard boxes for play? Cats love hiding and navigating through them, and you can make it even more fun by hiding treats inside. For shy dogs, snuffle mats can keep them busy while they gain confidence. What do you think?

For shy pets, sometimes just letting them explore their space helps a lot! I also like using cardboard boxes filled with different textures or treats. It’s low-key but keeps them curious and busy.