The Doggie Day Out Program allows residents to take shelter dogs out on adventures for the day. Photo courtesy of the City of Sacramento

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - The Front Street Animal Shelter has re-launched its popular Doggie Day Out program, which allows members of the community to take a shelter dog on a “field trip” to get a break from life at the shelter and increase their chances for adoption.

A video on the shelter’s Facebook page describes how the program works. Community members can take dogs on walks, to dog-friendly restaurants and breweries, to pet stores for treats and more. The shelter provides all necessary supplies, including a leash and other accessories for the dog that say, “Adopt me.”

“This program is extremely beneficial for our dogs,” said Phillip Zimmerman, manager at Front Street Animal Shelter. “It gives them much-needed exercise and a break from the stressful shelter environment, allows us to collect photos and valuable information about their behavior, and gives them exposure to potential adopters out in the community.”

The pandemic and staffing shortages caused the program’s hiatus, but with substantial hiring as well as improvements in technology to improve efficiencies, the shelter is excited to offer the program again.

“It’s not just great for the dogs, but also for the people who find meaning and enjoyment giving the dogs a fun day out,” Zimmerman said.

To learn more and sign up for a Doggie Day Out appointment, visit cityofsacramento.gov/doggiedayout.