Doggy Day Out Program
A doggy field trip!
A trip to a coffee shop for a pup cup or a trail hike, or even a quiet nap on your couch, dogs love any kind of adventure with a human!
About
Doggy Day Out
A Doggy Day Out is like mini adventure that works wonders for shelter pets. Not only do they give these lovable pups a break from the shelter but the photos you snap and the feedback you provide can speed up their journey to finding loving homes. Getting out of the shelter for a few hours or all day helps our dogs stay happy, healthy and ready for adoption. It’s fun for the humans, too!
Approved volunteers may take an available shelter dog offsite. The trip may include trail hikes, on-leash walks, car rides, relaxed downtime, or other activities approved by SCAA. Specific check out and check in times will be emailed to you based on date preferences, but check out window is around 8:45AM and return window is 4-5PM.
Shelter Pup reading program window is 8AM-9AM.
How to Sign Up:
Step 1. Submit an application and select “Dog Day Out” (Please note, you MUST be 18+ years old in order to be the primary volunteer)
Step 2. Review these orientation resources for understanding how to handle shelter dogs
Step 3. Sign the volunteer/foster waiver (First-time volunteers only)
Step 4. Schedule your doggy day out on the calendar below:
FAQ
How long can I take a dog out of the shelter?
Doggy Day Out lasts the whole day from 8:45AM – 4:30PM! As long as they are checked out and returned within the provided windows, enjoy!
What can I do with a pet on a Dog Day Out?
Typical locations are to your home or to local park or trail. You can:
- Take naps
- Play fetch in the
- backyard
- Go on a car ride to get a snack
- Hang out on a patio
- Go on a hike or for a run
Why are Dog Day Outs so important?
Dog Day Outs give our pets a much needed “break” from the stress of the shelter. They also help us learn about that pet’s behavior and personality. This helps us find them homes faster.
What can I not do with a dog?
- Go to a dog park
- Give the dog away to someone
- Leave the dog with children unsupervised
Won’t they be sad or stressed to go back to the shelter afterward?
Studies show that days out are enormous stress relievers for dogs in the shelter. Any time out and about is great for their health, for their exposure, and for their adoption profiles!
How else can I get involved? Are there Volunteer Opportunities?
We are volunteer-led and welcome all the help! Contact us at volunteer@secondchancewv.org
What if I need to cancel my day out?
Check the calendly email you received – it has options to reschedule or to cancel your appointment.
Because we prepare dogs ahead of time, please give at least 48 hours notice of cancellations.
Who do I contact if I have questions about my day out?
Email volunteer@secondchancewv.org
Please do not contact the main phone number unless it is an emergency.