First off: What is a Doggy Date?
The Doggy Date Program at CARE offers a heartwarming opportunity for approved volunteers to make a difference in the lives of our shelter dogs. By taking the dog out for a few hours or an entire day, you give them a much-needed break from the shelter. This allows them to decompress, explore, and enjoy a change of scenery.
Not only does hanging out with our shelter pups help them get adopted faster, but it can also be beneficial to you. Personally, there is no better way to destress from a crazy week of school or to celebrate being done with a big test than to spend the day with a sweet dog. Whether we’re going on a hike or spending the day on the couch, they are always just happy to be spending the day out of the shelter!
How do I become approved to take a dog on a Doggy Date?
First, sign up to become a volunteer at CARE by clicking this link. Then, email volunteer@carehumane.org to schedule your orientation for dog walking. This includes 3 hours of training with a staff member, and then you are good to go! Remember to always check with a staff member before signing a dog out for a Doggy Date.
What should I do on a Doggy Date?
I’ve compiled a list of a few dog-friendly locations and activities in the Auburn/Opelika area to give you some ideas on your Doggy Date:
Hike at Chewacla State Park
Just about 15 minutes from the shelter, Chewacla State Park is the perfect place to take a dog on a Doggy Date. Before you leave the shelter, make sure to pick up a Chewacla pass from the office so you and your dog can get free entry. If you forget to get a pass, don’t worry — it’s only $4 to get into the park. Once you get to Chewacla, my personal favorite trail is called the “Lakeside Connector.” It’s a super easy trail for both you and your dog, and you’ll both get to enjoy great views of the lake and the waterfall!
Town Creek Park
If you’re more in the mood for a leisurely walk instead of a hike, check out Town Creek Park! Only 10 minutes from CARE, Town Creek has a beautiful walking trail around a small pond that you and your dog will love. There are also plenty of picnic tables to stop and have a photoshoot like above!
Walk Around on Campus
If staying near the university is more your style, this option is perfect for you. Your dog will love exploring campus with you. Bonus points if you take a picture outside of Samford, get a selfie with Aubie, or meet Bruce Pearl on your walk! Walking around on campus can be the perfect opportunity for new people to meet your dog or hear about CARE’s mission.
Get a Pup Cup at a Local Coffee Shop
After spending the day hiking or walking around, you and your pup both deserve a sweet treat! Stop by your favorite coffee shop and get a drink for yourself and a pup cup for your dog. Some of my favorite spots with drive-throughs in Auburn are 7 Brew, Second Story, and Scooter’s. This can be another great opportunity to tell people about the dog you have for the day and all their friends back at the shelter.
Just Hang Out at Home!
After spending time in the shelter, your furry friend will love just relaxing and decompressing at home with you. A rainy day is the perfect time for you and your dog to have a movie marathon or to binge your favorite show. Cuddling on the couch is not only therapeutic to you, but it can be therapeutic to them too and help them get adopted faster by allowing them to destress.
These are just a few ideas of what you and your shelter pup can do together! When you drop your dog back off at the shelter, make sure to fill out a personality form so the staff can learn more about the dog you hung out with. Even just a few hours out of the shelter makes a huge difference for the dogs, so know that your time is so appreciated by both the dog and the shelter staff! You can learn more about Doggy Dates here.