How "Project Play It Forward" is Changing Lives in Groton, CT
The Power of a Paw-sitive Playtime: How "Project Play It Forward" is Changing Lives in Groton, CT
At WACKYwalk’r, we’ve always believed that a dog’s spirit is best seen when they’re in their element—ears back, tail wagging, and a favorite toy in their mouth. But for the thousands of dogs currently waiting in shelters, that playful spirit can sometimes be hard to find behind kennel bars.
That is why we launched Project Play It Forward, a mission-driven donation program designed to help shelter dogs get adopted faster by providing them with the ultimate tool for joy: the WUNDERball.
Mission #1 Complete: 52 WUNDERballs for Pride Rock Rescue
We are thrilled to announce that our very first shipment has officially landed! On Friday, February 20, 2026, we sent a box of 52 WUNDERballs to our friends at Pride Rock Rescue in Groton, CT.
This milestone was reached in record time. In less than two weeks, more than 25 generous customers stepped up to donate balls. As promised, WACKYwalk’r matched every single donation ball-for-ball, turning 26 individual acts of kindness into 52 moments of pure happiness for the dogs at Pride Rock.
“A dog’s personality shines brightest through play. By giving these pups a WUNDERball, we aren't just giving them a toy—we’re helping them find their forever families.”
Why Play Matters: The Science of Adoption
It might seem like "just a toy," but statistics show that play is a game-changer for shelter dogs. Dogs that are engaged, playful, or even happily tired out from a game of fetch are perceived as more "adoptable" by visiting families.
- Higher Visibility: A dog playing with a colorful WUNDERball catches the eye of potential adopters more than a dog sitting quietly in a corner.
- Reduced Stress: Play is a natural stress-reliever, helping shelter dogs stay calm and social.
- Faster Adoptions: Research suggests that dogs with access to toys and enrichment can get adopted up to 70% faster.
By showing a dog’s playful side, we help them make that vital emotional connection with a future owner, moving them out of the shelter and onto a permanent sofa much quicker.
Our goal is to ensure that no shelter dog in the country is left waiting in a silent kennel. We want to see WUNDERballs bouncing in play yards from Connecticut to California, but we can't do it alone. We are officially challenging our community to help us turn this local success into a national movement.
THANK YOU TO THESE GENEROUS DONORS WHO HAVE RECENTLY JOINED OUR MOVEMENT!
Help Us Reach Our Next Goal: Box #2 is Ready!
With Spring—the busiest time for dog adoptions—just around the corner, our work is only beginning. We already have Box #2 packed and ready to go to our next shelter, and Box #3 is filling up fast!
We are currently looking for more dog lovers to join the movement. Whether you’re searching for ways to help animal shelters or want to take part in a dog toy donation program, your contribution has a direct, measurable impact.
How You Can Help:
- Donate a WUNDERball: Look for the box at the bottom of this page or on the WUNDERball product page to purchase a donation ball.
- We Match Your Love: For every ball you donate, WACKYwalk’r will match it, ball-for-ball. Ten donation balls in one purchase is the most so far (yes that's a challenge) and we were happy to match all of them.
- Spread the Word: Share this post to help us reach more people wanting to help shelter dogs find their forever homes.
- Nominate a Shelter: Do you have a local rescue that is doing incredible work? A shelter in your hometown that is overflowing and needs a win? We want to hear from you. Contact us here or message us on social media with your suggestions for our next donation site.
Every WUNDERball donated is a chance for a dog in a place like Pride Rock Rescue to finally be seen for the amazing, fun-loving companion they truly are.
