HSOY creates program for foster dog field trips
Unlike dogs getting adopted, those sitting in cages don’t have many opportunities to go out and explore.
The Humane Society of Yuma kicks off a new program called Dogs Day Out, which allows animal lovers to foster these caged dogs taking them on field trips for a day.
It allows participants to free a dog from lockup for a day and maybe even fall in love and adopt a furry friend needing a home.
“This program started because we were looking for different ways to take dogs outside of the shelter,” said Adoption Coordinator Alyssa Atkins, who is also the founder of the Dogs Day Out program. “And we looked at other shelters and what they did to reduce kennel stress.”
“This is a military town and there is just a limited amount of things you can repeatedly do,” said Elle Ruiz, a program participant who is also a veteran or military spouse. “This is a good way to switch it up with a new dog each week..and get out and new people and have fur friends.”
Giving a dog a break for a day can include taking a walk, simply hanging out at home or taking your foster pet out for a bite to eat. You never know you and your foster buddy could end up being a match made in heaven. Atkins said luckily some dogs stuck in the shelter for months have found loving homes through this program.
You have to be at least 18 years old to participate in the program. The new program will be open to new foster dog parents in the fall. For more info on this great program go to the Humane Society of Yuma Facebook Page.
