ROZE (Regionale Opvang Zwerfdieren Eindhoven), an animal shelter in the Netherlands have previously attended Battersea’s Academy Residential Week.
They were visited by members of the Academy team, so the team could see firsthand many of the changes ROZE has brought in from their training with the Academy. Visits to other organisations are vital in helping the Battersea team further understand the wider animal welfare sector.
Alma van Dorenmalen, Operational Manager at ROZE successfully adapted Battersea’s kitten socialising programme for use at the rescue centre and for cats on foster, with excellent results.
In addition, ROZE are now using the Traffic Light System (TLS) for cat behaviour observations. The use of a traffic light system to assess cat welfare in rehoming environments is advocated by International Cat Care (ICC) as part of their Cat Friendly Homing (CFH) Programme. A cat is thought to have good overall welfare when they're experiencing both positive emotional and physical wellbeing and are coping well within their environment.
I really love this Traffic Light System, and everyone else does too. It really helps with the expectations of volunteers.
All ROZE staff and volunteer socialisers were given introductory training in the TLS system. Previously, there had been no real structure to socialising, resulting in some cats scratching, biting and often behaving differently with every person they met.
Since implementing the TLS based on the Academy training, ROZE have seen a decrease in the length of stay for cats by six days, which is an exceptional change. They have also created a special Red Room to monitor the most stressed cats.
It was a pleasure discussing the positive impact of implementing TLS and Stress Management techniques on the cats at ROZE. Alma shared that cats are transitioning out of their ‘Red’ status more quickly, and the overall reduction in length of stay is a wonderful outcome. During the tour, it was great to see stress management strategies in action, such as the newly added drapes to the pens, high places, and carriers for hiding. The results were clear, with many cats appearing calm and settled in their pens.
It was also incredibly valuable to discuss the fostering and TNR efforts at ROZE. Their approach to kitten socialisation was impressive, with thoughtful plans in place to ensure the best future for each kitten. Alma also mentioned how much they’ve learned from Battersea’s kitten socialisation programme. I was truly inspired by their dedication and hard work. It's clear they are making a significant impact for their cats.
– Hazel, Cats Team Leader at Battersea
