As we move into fall, we’re highlighting a new program that CCAS launched in July: “Dogs Day Out.” It’s a new way that members of our community can help shelter dogs – and get a “dog fix” as well!
“Dogs Day Out” focuses on dogs that have been at CCAS for a while and need a break from the stress of shelter life. Here’s how it works: on your phone or computer, go to the “Dogs Day Out” webpage and click the red ‘Sign Up’ button to choose a date and pickup time. When you arrive at the shelter, you’ll get your very own canine companion, plus all the supplies you’ll need, including a leash, water bowl and treats, and a list of fun, dog-friendly places in the area.
You and your CCAS pup can spend two to four hours out and about together! So far, “Dogs Day Out” participants have gotten special treats like Pup Cups, gone for walks in new neighborhoods, gone for hikes in the Metroparks and gone shopping. A favorite destination for some folks is a pet store, where dogs can pick out a toy to take back to the shelter (it goes home with them in a special “swag bag” when they get adopted).
“Dogs Day Out” is a great way to help dogs get visibility since some are being overlooked at the shelter. Not only does it give them a break from the commotion of kennel life; it improves their chances of being adopted by introducing them to new people. It also gives them enriching new experiences, raises awareness of CCAS and its volunteer programs and lightens the load on CCAS volunteers as they try to get all the dogs out for multiple walks a day. And the online “report card” that participants fill out afterward gives shelter staff a new window into the dogs’ personalities and behaviors, that helps them match dogs with the right families.
Some background on the program: “Dog Day Out” was started by VCA Charities in 2023, based on research showing that “dogs who experience a single day outside of the shelter are 10 times more likely to be adopted.” The program also increases community involvement in and advocacy for shelters. In setting up their “Dogs Day Out” program, CCAS also got a lot of valuable advice from the Arizona Humane Society.
So, if you can’t adopt a dog right now, there’s still an easy, fun way to bring some love and sunshine into a shelter dog’s life — come try “Dogs Day Out!”
