What is Doggy's Day Out?
Doggy's Day Out is a program that allows people who might not be able to have a pet to enjoy some of the benefits of pet ownership while supporting KCHS. This program encourages people to take shelter dogs on outings in the community. Outings can consist of trips to dog-friendly businesses, hikes, going to the lake, or just staying home to snuggle on the couch and watch a movie. Outings can last anywhere from 2 hours to overnight. By offering easy approval and a minimal time commitment, the Doggy's Day Out program encourages members of the public who normally wouldn't have time to volunteer, engage with KCHS, and have the chance to advocate for the animals and our cause. There is no minimum commitment, and participants can come as often or as little as works for them.

Benefits of the Doggy's Day Out program.
Living in an animal shelter is incredibly stressful. When dogs are exposed to stress such as this, their behavior and mental health deteriorate. By allowing the dogs housed at KCHS a chance to get away from the shelter and exhibit normal dog behaviors, their stress levels decrease, which decreases the overall stress in the shelter and promotes better in-shelter behaviors.  Dogs who participate in Doggy's Day Out programs are 5x more likely to be adopted!  

How does the Doggy's Day Out program help participants?
Science shows that owning or being with a pet greatly reduces stress and, in turn, promotes good health. Many of the individuals who participate in this program are either away from their pets due to work or travel, or are unable to have a pet at the given time. By giving these individuals a chance to have quality time with a loving pet, they would otherwise not get in their daily lives, we are in turn enriching their lives and health. A bonus is that people in the community who are not likely to come into KCHS will still get to see and meet our adaptable dogs and, in so doing, possibly find their new best friend! 

How to schedule a Doggy's Day Out?

The best way to schedule a Doggy's Day Out is by emailing KatieN@kingmancountyhumanesociety.org with your contact information, and a representative will contact you to schedule your outing.