Desert Hot Springs Students Build Business Skills Through Dog Treat Enterprise

Students in the Adult Transition Program at Desert Hot Springs High School are gaining real-world business experience by producing and selling homemade dog treats.

The program, located at the Edward Wenzlaff Education Center, serves students ages 18 to 21 with disabilities. A grant enabled the purchase of kitchen equipment, allowing students to launch their small-scale dog treat business.

Through the enterprise, students develop practical skills including kitchen safety, money handling, and customer interaction. The hands-on experience provides training that extends beyond traditional classroom instruction.

This week marked a significant milestone when a pet club at the Outdoor Resorts of Palm Springs placed a $250 order for the student-made treats. The sale represents the program's largest transaction to date.

Revenue from sales funds recreational activities for program participants. Proceeds from recent sales will cover a group outing to see "Zootopia" next week, with additional activities planned for the spring semester.

According to program staff, the initiative serves a dual purpose: generating income for student activities while building confidence and fostering independence skills that students will need beyond their time in the program.