Submitted by Department of Animal Services County of Riverside
Riverside County Department of Animal Services (RCDAS) launches a new field-trip program called “Dog Day Out” aimed at giving shelter dogs a break from their kennels to increase their visibility for adoption and help reduce stress. According to research conducted by VCA Charities, dogs who experience field trips are five times more likely to be adopted.
Dog Day Out participants can take adoptable dogs out into the community on activities suited to their demeanor and temperament. The goal is for homeless dogs to meet potential adopters and experience enrichment and social activities.
The program is now available at the Western Riverside County/City Animal Shelter and the San Jacinto Valley Animal Campus and models the community dog program called “FIDO” led by community members at the Coachella Valley Animal Campus. Available supplies will be provided, and the foster team will help match participants with adoptable dogs.
“Our team is working hard to enhance our foster programs, and we are excited for the community to have more opportunities to take part in lifesaving,” said RCDAS Animal Services Manager Candace Falkenstien. “We have so many dogs who need time outside of their kennels, and with the public’s help we can get more dogs into loving homes and save lives.”
RivCo shelters are operating in critical overcapacity with the number of dogs in kennels, many of them sharing a space with two, three, four, or more kennel mates. While staff and volunteers provide time for dogs outside of their kennels, there remains a need for dogs to take a break from the shelter to reduce stress.
“It’s always nice to see how dogs open up when they’re in a different environment,” said Annie Caldon, Animal Services Counselor. “Shelter dogs just need a chance to show off their personalities, and what we learn about them on these trips will help us match them with a great family.”
With dozens of dogs staying over 100 days in the RivCo shelter system, the need for increased community participation is crucial to reduce overcrowding and increase adoptions to help achieve the RivCo Rise resolution of reaching a 90% live release rate.
“Community support and action are both key to helping RivCo dogs and becoming a no-kill community,” said Fifth District Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez. “I see so many amazing dogs entering our shelters, and I know there are amazing people who can give them an outlet and get them into good homes.”
Participants can make appointments starting Wednesday, June 18 and Friday, June 20. RCDAS shelters will be closed on Thursday, June 19 in observance of Juneteenth.
To learn more and sign up for Dog Day Out, visit the Riverside County Department of Animal Services website.
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