By Dr Krista Halling
Imagine the joy of a shelter dog stepping out of their kennel and into the great outdoors—an adventure that can transform both their world and yours. With an estimated 3.5 million dogs in humane societies and animal shelters across the United States and Canada, an outdoor excursion is a huge gift to that dog, the shelter and you.
Shelter dogs spend most of their days in kennels or small outdoor runs. While shelter staff and volunteers work hard to provide care and enrichment, they often lack the resources to give every dog the exercise, mental stimulation, and one-on-one attention they need. This is where you come in.
Many animal shelters and humane societies invite volunteers to take adoptable dogs out for walks, hikes, and even day trips. These programs are transforming lives—not just for the dogs, but for the people who participate. Here’s why these programs matter, how they work, and how you can get involved.
Why Shelter Dogs Need Adventures Too
Why giving a dog a break from the shelter is so valuable and has huge ripple effects:
1. Physical Benefits for the Dog
Many shelter dogs spend most of their days confined to small spaces, limiting their opportunities to stretch their legs or burn off energy. A hike allows them to:
• Build strength and endurance.
• Relieve pent-up energy, reducing stress and anxiety.
• Maintain a healthy weight through exercise, lowering their risk of health issues.
Tip: Start with short, easy trails for dogs that may not be in peak physical condition and gradually work up to longer adventures.
2. Mental Stimulation for the Dog
The natural world offers a treasure trove of scents, sounds, and sights that shelter dogs rarely experience. Exploring a new environment can:
• Sharpen their senses, encouraging curiosity and exploration.
• Reduce boredom that can lead to destructive behaviours in shelters or homes.
• Boost their confidence as they navigate new terrain and experiences.
Tip: Bring treats to reward the dog when they respond positively to new stimuli, creating a positive association. First ask the shelter whether the dog has any food sensitivities; hypo-allergenic treats are a good bet.
3. Emotional Benefits for the Dog
Shelter life can be isolating and lack sufficient mental stimulation for dogs. Taking them on an outdoor adventure offers:
• A sense of freedom and joy they may not have felt in a long time.
• One-on-one time with a human, which fosters trust and oxytocin (the “bonding” hormone) release.
• Stress relief from the calming presence of nature and the mental and physiological benefits of sunshine.
Tip: Speak gently and offer reassurance during the hike to help the dog feel safe and supported.
4. Physical and Mental Health Benefits for You
Spending time outdoors with a dog can be just as transformative for you as it is for the dog:
• Exercise: A hike can provide a great cardiovascular workout, helping you stay fit.
• Stress Relief: Being in nature and focusing on the dog helps you disconnect from daily pressures.
• Improved Mood: Interacting with a grateful, happy dog is a surefire way to boost your spirits and oxytocin levels.
Tip: Choose a trail or activity that aligns with your and the dog’s fitness level and allows you to enjoy the experience fully.
5. Strengthening the Human-Dog Bond
Although the dog isn’t yours, spending time with them creates a meaningful connection. You’re showing them kindness and patience, which helps to:
• Build their trust in humans.
• Teach you how to communicate effectively with dogs, enhancing your understanding of canine behavior.
Tip: Use positive reinforcement to establish a sense of mutual respect and desirable behaviours.
6. Increasing the Dog’s Adoption Chances
A well-socialized, happy dog is more likely to be adopted. Outdoor excursions help to:
• Showcase the dog’s personality outside the stress of a shelter. Do they love car rides? Are they great with kids? Do they prefer a quiet trail to a bustling park? This information helps shelter staff match dogs with the right families.
• Train them in basic commands and leash manners, making them more appealing to potential adopters.
• Generate social media content if you share the outing, which could reach their future forever family and also gets them exposed to more people in real life. Shelters often place an “Adopt Me” vest on the dog, which act as walking advertisements, increasing the dog’s visibility and sparking conversations that can lead to adoption.
Tip: With permission, take photos or videos of your adventure and tag the shelter when posting on social media.
7. Fostering Community Engagement
When you take a shelter dog on an adventure, you inspire others to do the same. Your actions can:
• Raise awareness about the needs of shelter dogs.
• Encourage friends or family to volunteer.
• Support shelters indirectly by promoting their mission and increasing engagement.
Tip: Share your experience with others to highlight the joys of giving back. By chatting with friends and family about your experience, this allows you to savour your time with the dog which will make it that much more meaningful for you as well.
8. Personal Growth for the Human
Helping a shelter dog offers a sense of fulfillment and purpose. You’re not just going on a hike—you’re making a real difference in an animal’s life, which can:
• Strengthen your sense of compassion and empathy.
• Provide a break from your own challenges as you focus on helping another being.
• Foster gratitude and happiness from the doggy bond and being in nature.
Tip: Reflect on the experience after the hike and consider ways you can continue to give back.
9. Environmental Awareness
Exploring trails with a shelter dog helps both you and the dog reconnect with nature. This connection can inspire a greater sense of responsibility for:
• Protecting outdoor spaces.
• Supporting pet-friendly conservation initiatives.
• Advocating for eco-friendly practices in shelters.
Tip: Always follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the environment for future adventures.
10. Making Lasting Memories
Every outing with a shelter dog creates a story that stays with you forever. Whether it’s their joyful leap into a stream or the moment they rest their head on your lap during a break, these moments:
• Deepen your appreciation for the human-animal bond.
• Serve as reminders of the small yet profound ways we can make a difference.
Tip: Document your hike with a journal or photos to remember the experience and share it with others.
How Shelter Dog Walking and Hiking Programs Work
Shelters run these programs in different ways, but here’s what you can generally expect:
Volunteer Onboarding
Before you can take a dog out, most shelters require an orientation session. This covers their policies, basic dog handling skills, and safety tips. Some shelters may also have you shadow an experienced volunteer before your first outing.
Choosing a Dog
Staff will help you select a dog that matches your experience level and activity preferences. For instance, a senior dog might enjoy a leisurely stroll, while a young, energetic dog could be your perfect hiking buddy. Note that many shelter dogs are medium to large and might be quite strong.
Planning the Adventure
• Most shelters provide essentials like leashes, harnesses, collapsible water bowls and waste bags.
• You’ll need to bring water for both you and the dog, as well as treats for rewards and training. Check with the shelter about any food sensitivities the dog may have and whether he/she is allowed treats.
• The shelter may suggest specific routes or parks, but many are open to your suggestions as long as they’re safe and dog-friendly.
Duration
Each shelter will have their own guidelines for the excursion. Outings may range from short walks to full-day excursions. Some shelters even allow overnight fosters, giving dogs a taste of home life.
Documenting the Experience
Shelters often ask volunteers to share notes or photos from the outing. Did the dog walk nicely on a leash? Were they curious or cautious? How did they handle the car ride? This feedback is invaluable for finding them the right home.
How You Can Make a Difference
Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting involved:
Find a Shelter Near You
Check the websites of your local humane societies and animal shelters or contact them to ask about volunteer opportunities and outdoor programs.
Prepare for the Adventure
• Pack essentials like water, a collapsible bowl, and a dog first-aid kit. Don’t worry if you don’t have those – most shelters will provide you with these essentials.
• Dress appropriately for the weather and trail conditions.
• Research dog-friendly trails or parks if the shelter doesn’t provide suggestions.
Be Patient and Observant
Shelter dogs may need extra time to adjust to new environments. Go at their pace, and watch for signs of stress or fatigue.
A Lifechanging Opportunity
Taking a shelter dog on an outdoor adventure is more than just a kind gesture—it’s a powerful way to change their life and yours. So, lace up your boots, grab a leash, and head to your local shelter. You’ll be amazed at the difference a simple walk can make—for the dog, for the shelter, and for you. Who knows? You might even find your next adventure buddy.
About the author
Dr Krista Halling is a veterinarian board-certified with the American College of Veterinary Surgeons and co-founder of Dogpacking.com. Krista is certified in the Human-Animal Bond, Canine Rehabilitation and has a strong interest in the scientific merits of outdoor activities on the human-dog bond and on canine wellness. Krista loves adventuring and travelling the world with her sidekick mini goldendoodle, River.
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