A new initiative in Salisbury is giving shelter dogs a chance to experience life outside their kennels. The Doggie Day Out foster program, which launched on February 5, 2024, allows residents to foster a dog for a day. This pilot program aims to enhance the dogs’ socialization and increase their visibility for adoption.
By the end of its first week, eight dogs participated in the program, which is designed to take them out of the shelter for a few hours. According to Maria Pannell, the Director of Animal Services, the program draws inspiration from similar efforts across the country. “This short-term opportunity allows us to work out any kinks before developing a longer-term foster program,” she explained.
Participants can pick up a dog from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and are encouraged to visit local parks and attractions. The only requirements are that participants must be at least 18 years old, the dogs must be returned by 3:30 p.m., and they must remain in Rowan County under constant supervision. Photographs of the dogs taken during their outings should be shared with shelter staff.
The ultimate goal of the Doggie Day Out program is to create longer-term foster opportunities, which would help alleviate overcrowding in the shelter. Pannell elaborated on the objectives: “We want to provide enrichment for the animals, gain free marketing through public exposure, and ultimately find them homes.” The program is set to continue for several months to assess its effectiveness.
Volunteer Nicole Gleason participated in the program after enjoying a similar initiative in Mecklenburg County. On her first outing, she took a Border Collie puppy named Finn to local spots like Koco Java and the Bell Tower Green. After Finn was adopted, she returned to the program to take another dog, Bedoe, out for a day of exploration.
Gleason noted the importance of showcasing dogs like Bedoe, who may not have had the best start in life. “He came in with what looked like bite wounds and scratches on his face,” she recalled. “Anything to get him out and put him in a positive light is crucial.” After an active day, Bedoe was visibly tired but had successfully passed all socialization tests during their outings.
Pannell reported that all five dogs who participated from Monday to Wednesday found homes the following morning, thanks to their social media exposure. “It has been amazing so far. I’ve just been thrilled every day,” she said. The shelter is currently limiting daily participation to five dogs, selected by staff to ensure they are suitable for public outings.
Anyone interested in volunteering for the Doggie Day Out program can visit the Nina Dix Dog Adoption Center on Julian Road or contact the shelter’s main line at 704-216-7768 and select option one. The shelter will continue to hold regular adoption events, including one scheduled for February 14, 2024, offering an 80 percent discount on adoption fees.
