On May 1, 2019, a team from CLR Design entered “Lionel” into the 2nd Annual Magis Puppy Design Challenge. The interior design firm Premier provided several local design firms each with a Magis Puppy to use as a blank canvas. The decorated Puppies were then the center of a silent auction to raise money for PAWS (Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society). Not only did “Lionel” help raise money for local pups, he also had an additional conservation lesson:
One of the greatest threats to lion habitats and populations is habitat encroachment and human-wildlife conflict – farmers are killing lions to protect their livestock. In eastern Africa, wildlife organizations are raising and training puppies to give to local farmers as an alternative form of protection for their livestock. Livestock guardian dogs are known for their imposing physical presence, fierce bark, and loyal protective nature. Not only do they bond with and fiercely protect the herd, but they also save lions and other big cats by alleviating the pressure on farmers to kill them.
