Lucas County Canine Care & Control is expanding its Dogs On The Town program to allow non-LC4 volunteers to participate.
Volunteers can now take dogs from the Canine Care Center on day trips around the community. These outings can last for a few hours or for the full day, and the options for the trip run the gamut.
The dogs could be taken on a hike in the many Metropark areas, have some playtime at the home of a volunteer, go into a dog-friendly business and local pet store or taken for a pup cup from Starbucks. It just depends on whatever activity you want to do to bond with the dog and treat them to a great day.
On the day of the trip, participants will be given business cards for their dog in case there are any interested adoptive families. The dog’s harness will also say “adopt me” on it, giving the dog a visible sign that they are ready to be adopted.
Anyone interested in volunteering must be 18 years old or older. This program helps reduce the stress dogs can feel living in a Canine Care Center. They get to have a break from the shelter environment while gaining visibility to potentially become adopted. Additionally, if you fall in love with the dog you take out, you are welcome to talk to the shelter about adopting the dog for yourself.
That is why the Dogs On The Town program started in the first place – to provide an avenue for dogs to have a fun, carefree outing with responsible, caring volunteers. Previously, the program was only open to LC4 volunteers, but is now opening to the public for the chance to gain more love and awareness for these sheltered dogs.
Volunteers interested in the program can sign up via signupgenius.com. Lucas County Canine Care & Control asks that you do not bring your own dog with you to the volunteer day, and conversely will not give you more than one dog to take care of. A photo ID will be required, and bringing a blanket or towel for your vehicle is recommended.
For more information, visit lucascountydogs.com or call 419-213-2800.