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SITE NAVIGATION

Front Street Volunteer Program

Doggie Day Out

Front Street Volunteer Program

Doggie Day Out

a collage of dogs wearing their purple vests and hanging out in public

open_in_full

Give a dog a day out of the shelter! The dog will enjoy it just as much as you do. This is a wonderful opportunity to make a difference in the life of a shelter dog by giving the dog a break from their usual environment. You can take the dog for a walk on a local trail, grab a pup cup, visit dog-friendly breweries, or simply relax at one of Sacramento's many parks. Or, take a shelter pup home overnight through our Pups and PJs program, offering them a much-needed break from the shelter and a taste of home.

Take a dog out for the day

a gray and white dog wearing green pajamas with dog paws on it and laying in front of a background of a dark sky, large moon, stars, the Tower Bridge, and the State Capitol

Take a dog for a sleepover

How long can I take a dog out for?
With our Doggie Day Out program, you can schedule an appointment to take a dog out for a few hours with a return time ranging from 1 pm - 4 pm. With our Pups and PJs program, you can keep a pup overnight for even more fun!

Can I take a dog overnight?
Yes, you can take a dog overnight through our Pups and PJs program. Pick-up is from 9 am - 10 am and drop-off is the next day between 10 am - 12 pm.

What is Pups and PJs?
Pups and PJs is a special program as part of the Front Street Doggie Day Out program that allows shelter dogs to spend a cozy night in a home environment. This gives them a much-needed break from the shelter while giving participants the chance to enjoy the companionship of a furry friend.

Do I need to be a registered volunteer and complete the orientation prior to participating in Doggie Day Out?
No, you do NOT need to sign up to volunteer or take the orientation to participate in Doggie Day Out or Pups and PJs. Just click on the buttons above to choose an appointment and complete the agreement.

Can I take the dog to a dog park or introduce them to other dogs?
No, dogs must NOT interact with other dogs during the outing. Dog parks are NOT allowed.

Do I need to bring my own leash or any supplies?
Nope! Whether you take a dog for a few hours or for an overnight sleepover, all supplies will be provided for you.

What type of dog should I expect?
Staff will pair you with a dog prior to your appointment based on your answers during sign-up. Most dogs in the program:

Weigh 40+ lbs
Are young and energetic
Have been selected because they need a break from the shelter

What if I can’t handle a large or energetic dog?
Due to the constant flow of dogs in and out of the shelter, we cannot accommodate requests for specific breeds, energy levels, or sizes. If you prefer a different experience, we recommend volunteering in the shelter.

Can I bring my own dog?
No, we ask that you leave your own dog at home, and if you'll be bringing your Doggie Day Out dog home, then separate all resident animals for the entire time the dog is at your house. The goal of this outing is to give the shelter dog one-on-one human interaction, and we don't always know how our shelter dogs will do with other animals.

Where can I bring my Doggie Day Out dog?
In the Doggie Day Out packet provided at pick-up, you'll find a map featuring some recommended destinations to explore with your Doggie Day Out companion. While we provide suggestions, you're welcome to take your dog to any location that allows dogs.

Popular destinations include hiking trails, breweries with patios, pet stores where they can pick out a toy, or even places like Home Depot for a bit of shopping. You’re also more than welcome to bring your Doggie Day Out dog back to your house to relax or play in the backyard. If you choose to do so, please ensure that any resident pets can be safely separated during the visit.

How can I help after my outing?
After your outing, you’ll receive a survey where you can share details about your adventure and upload photos. These will be added to the dog’s adoption profile to help potential adopters learn more about the dog. If you find yourself falling in love with your Doggie Day Out companion, consider adopting or fostering and provide the dog with a loving home!

Are there any rules about transporting the dog?
Yes, dogs must:

Ride inside an enclosed vehicle (no open Jeeps, convertibles, or truck beds)
Be safely secured in the car with the help of staff at pick-up

What safety precautions should I take at home?
Before bringing the dog inside, check your:

Yard and fence for loose planks, holes, or gaps
Property for hazards, such as poisonous plants, foxtails, or dangerous household items

Even if your home is secure for your own pets, assume the shelter dog may react differently.

What do I do in case of an emergency?
You will receive an emergency contact number at pick-up. If an emergency arises, call the number right away.

How can I help after my outing?

Fill out the post-outing survey to share details and photos of your experience. This helps the dog’s adoption profile!
Consider fostering or adopting if you and the pup make a great match!

Can I adopt the dog I take home?
Absolutely! If you’re interested in adopting, let the shelter staff know when you return the pup.

a pencil alongside an envelope on a purple background

Questions or comments

Email our Doggie Day Out Team

Doggie Day Out on Instagram

Sights and sounds of Front Street's dogs on their outdoor adventures

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