Dogs who are taken out of the kennel facility and brought into homes or on adventures are more likely to be adopted. To be eligible for this program, you must be at least 18 years of age.
Share your adventure!
Be sure to post about your fun day with your RUFF dog on social media! Potential adopters love to see adoptable dogs enjoying a day outside of the shelter. You never know who may be watching, and your friends can always share your post to reach even more people.
Also, please send any notes, photos, and videos of your day to information@ruffrescuewalkercountyal.org. We may also share your outing to our social media channels, feature the story in a blog post, use the story for greater promotion of our programs, and will use the information to better advertise the dog to potential adopters who come into our shelter. We cannot thank you enough for capturing valuable information about our shelter dogs!
Brush Up on Your Leash Skills
Shelter staff will pair you with a dog who matches your experience level, whether you’re new to dog handling or a seasoned pro. If you’re not confident about leash skills like knowing how to safely deter pulling or manage interactions with other dogs, consider working with a trainer first. “Most trainers will provide discounts to rescue volunteers to teach these skills, or even work with the shelter themselves,” says shelter volunteer and certified dog trainer Blythe Neer.
Prepare Your Car
If your field trip plans include driving in your car, make sure you have a dog-safe car setup. Depending on the breed of dog you take out, and how active (aka distracting) they tend to be on the road, you may want to invest in a crash-tested seat belt, dog car seat or backseat barrier. It’s also a good idea to use a car seat cover to protect your upholstery from fur, drool and other messes.
Choose Your Location Carefully
When planning your day, consider the individual dog you’ll be taking out, advises Brooke Greenberg, a certified dog trainer and field-trip volunteer with the SPCA Tampa Bay. “It's important to take into account the dog's temperament,” Greenberg says. “A shy dog is likely to prefer a less crowded location like a community park, mid-week. A trip along the waterfront with a stop at a cafe is better for a dog that doesn't mind other dogs in close proximity.” Staff at the shelter will be able to tell you what they know about your dog’s personality and offer suggestions for field trip activities.
Take Time to Stop and Smell the Roses (and/or Hydrants)
Wherever the day takes you, allow your four-legged friend plenty of time to partake in can’t-miss dog activities, like sniffing. Smelling the outside world is a rare and valuable treat for shelter dog. In fact, it’s good for their health! Studies show sniffing decreases heart rates, among other benefits.
Take Notes
While out and about, take note of the dog’s personality, quirks, likes, dislikes and special qualities. How do they react to children or other pets? Do they like crowded environments, or do they prefer more personal space? Shelter staff can use this information to find a fitting forever home.
Spread the Word
Field trips present adoption opportunities, so make sure you’re prepared to tell people about your new buddy. Consider bringing flyers with the dog’s information or the shelter’s business cards. Who knows—you just might find your pup’s future forever family!