How to Start a Doggy Field Trip & Sleepover Program: A Resource Guide For Shelters

Executive Summary

The Impact Is Clear. Doggy day out and sleepover programs boost dog adoption rates by up to 14 times while requiring minimal resources to implement. These programs — where volunteers take shelter dogs on short adventures outside kennel walls — provide crucial mental stimulation for dogs while showcasing their true personalities to potential adopters.

Who Should Read This Guide: Animal welfare professionals at dog shelters, humane societies, SPCAs, and rescue organizations interested in starting field trip, sleepover, or “Borrow A Buddy” programs.

What You’ll Learn:

• Evidence-based benefits for dogs, shelters, and communities
• Step-by-step implementation framework with practical resources
• Solutions to common concerns and obstacles
• Real-world success stories from shelters of all sizes

Introduction

Picture a shelter dog spending 23+ hours daily in a kennel — surrounded by barking, unfamiliar smells, and limited human interaction. This reality, despite staff’s best efforts, creates significant stress that can worsen over time, especially for long-term residents. As stress increases, many dogs develop behaviors that further reduce their adoptability, creating a challenging cycle.

Temporary outing programs offer a remarkably effective solution. These initiatives — whether called doggy field trips, day outings, or sleepovers — engage community volunteers to give dogs breaks from shelter life ranging from a few hours to a weekend. Beyond providing mental relief, these programs reveal dogs’ authentic personalities outside the stressful shelter environment, often inspiring volunteers who become powerful adoption advocates.

The Evidence Is Compelling: Research shows these programs not only improve dogs’ wellbeing but deliver concrete results:

• On sleepovers, dogs show measurable stress reduction both during and after outings.
• Louisville Metro Animal Services reduced behavioral euthanasia by 50%.
• Lincoln County Animal Services facilitated the adoptions of 49 participating dogs, including 19 long-term residents.

While increasingly common in the United States, with hundreds of shelters now operating such programs, this approach shows tremendous potential globally — particularly in regions with robust volunteer networks or active tourism sectors.

Program Models: Successful Examples from the Field

Temporary outing programs generally fall into two categories — day trips or sleepovers. Many shelters successfully offer both options with similar infrastructure and requirements.

Doggy Day Out or Doggy Field Trips

Description: Typically lasting 2-8 hours during regular business hours, volunteers take dogs from the shelter to pet-friendly spaces including parks, hiking trails, local businesses, or even their homes for brief rest periods.

Success Story: Data from the Arizona Humane Society’s field trip program demonstrates its effectiveness. With over 1,000 outings (an average of 24 weekly), the program has dramatically decreased the average length of stay for dogs, from 41 days to just 14 days after their participation. These field trips provided critical opportunities for dogs to:

• Develop proper social behaviors in real-world environments
• Become desensitized to common triggers (traffic, cyclists, children)
• Gain visibility to potential adopters who see them enjoying normal activities
• Generate valuable feedback about preferences and behaviors outside the shelter.

Sleepover Programs

Description: Sleepover programs involve volunteers hosting a dog for one or more nights (usually fewer than three) at their personal accommodation — whether home, apartment, or even pet-friendly hotel.

Success Story: Dogs Trust Ireland’s Sleepover Club program, a unique overnight initiative in Europe, offered significant benefits for participating dogs. Research indicates that these dogs experience:

• Significantly longer rest periods compared to shelter environments
• Reduced cortisol levels (stress hormone) extending beyond the sleepover itself
• Accelerated acclimation to home environments, facilitating quicker adjustment after adoption
• Detailed behavior profiles that help match dogs with appropriate adopters.

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Rationale: Why Start a Shelter Outing or Sleepover Program?

Organizations implement temporary outing programs for several compelling, evidence-based reasons that benefit dogs, volunteers, and the entire organization.

Reduced Stress & Improved Behaviors

• Stress reduction: Dogs experience environments free from constant barking and kennel noise.
• Mental stimulation: New sights, sounds, and smells provide crucial cognitive enrichment.
• Physical exercise: Play in varied settings offer exercise beyond standard shelter walks.
• Rest and recovery: Particularly for overnight stays, dogs get extended periods of genuine rest.

Increased Adoption Prospects

• Increased visibility: Dogs showcase themselves in public settings with “Adopt Me” gear.
• Improved adaptability: Exposure to diverse environments improves dogs’ flexibility.
• Volunteer adoption: Volunteers sometimes fall in love with their temporary companions.

Success Story: For potential adopters who are undecided, the Arizona Animal Welfare League’s (AAWL) Slumber Party program offers a unique opportunity to bond with the animal. It boasts a 72% adoption rate and has placed over 1,000 pets since 2013.

Combating Stereotypes

Doggy field trips and sleepovers effectively challenge stereotypes, showcasing shelter dogs as adorable, well-mannered companions deserving of loving homes.

Community Connections

Beyond the immediate benefits for dogs, these programs significantly enhance your organization’s community presence. Dogs sporting “Adopt Me” vests become powerful ambassadors, showcasing your organization’s impactful work. Furthermore, by recommending local pet-friendly businesses to volunteer caregivers, you foster mutually beneficial partnerships, driving customers to supporting businesses while advancing your mission.

Partnership Example: Mendocino Coast Humane Society partnered with local hotels to offer “Cabin Stays” where tourists can host shelter dogs overnight, generating positive press coverage and a new volunteer demographic.

Organization Building

Temporary outings can help address common shelter challenges:

• Volunteer pipeline: Studies show a notable portion of short-term outing volunteers transition to long-term foster caregivers.
• Staff workload: Even brief breaks from care reduce cleaning and walking demands.
• Marketing content: Volunteer photos and stories provide authentic content that stands out on social media and websites.

Common Concerns: Addressing Them Upfront

Despite growing popularity, stakeholders often express several concerns about temporary outing programs. Here’s how to address them with evidence and practical solutions:

“Won’t dogs be sad when they return to the shelter?”

This is perhaps the most common concern — and research provides a clear answer:

• What the research shows: Studies measuring cortisol (stress hormone) levels before, during, and after outings consistently demonstrate that:
  • Dogs typically return more relaxed after sleepovers.
  • Day outings may temporarily increase arousal due to stimulation, but levels quickly return to baseline.
  • No evidence supports concerns about “depression” or lasting negative impacts.
• Practical observation: While some dogs may appear disappointed upon return (just as they might when any enjoyable activity ends), this momentary response is vastly outweighed by the benefits of the break from shelter life.

Expert Insight: “No one is willing to give up their weekend just because they have to return to work on Monday. Dogs are the same — give them a break so they can continue to battle on.” – Dr. Lisa Gunter, Leading Researcher in Companion Animal Fostering

“What about liability if something happens?”

Organizations naturally worry about incidents occurring outside staff supervision:

• Bites: Studies from multiple programs show dog bite incidents are extremely rare (0.2% of outings). 
• Non-returns: Data from VCA Charities shows they have experienced no non-return incidents.
• Waiver protection: Comprehensive waivers, while not completely eliminating liability, provide significant protection.

Practical Solutions:

• Treat temporary outings as foster engagements, applying existing foster procedures and policies.
• Provide clear written and verbal instructions (e.g., must remain leashed).
• Implement comprehensive waivers reviewed by legal counsel.
• Review your organization’s insurance policy — many foster program policies extend to short-term outings.
• Start with your most behaviorally sound dogs to build confidence in the program.

“We don’t have the staff to manage another program”

Concerns about staff capacity are valid but often overestimated:

• Volunteer management: Many organizations find that field trip volunteers require less ongoing supervision than traditional shelter volunteers.
• Documentation efficiency: Simple check-out/check-in forms streamline pickup and drop-off.
• Scheduling tools: Free online tools can automate much of the scheduling process.
• Start small: Begin with just 1-2 days per week to assess impact on staff workload. Utilize volunteers to help manage the program.

“What if we don’t see immediate adoption results?”

Some leaders expect immediate adoptions after each outing:

• Realistic expectations: Research shows adoption rates from temporary caregivers range from 4% for day outings to 12% for sleepovers.
• Cumulative impact: The true value comes from the cumulative effect of multiple outings, with increased community and marketing exposure, as well as improved behavior.
• Beyond adoptions: Programs should be evaluated on comprehensive benefits, not just immediate adoption outcomes.

Is A Doggy Day Out Program Right for Your Organization?

Nearly all dog shelters and humane societies can benefit from temporary outing programs, regardless of size or location. These programs are particularly valuable because they:

• Require minimal startup resources compared to other initiatives.
• Can be scaled according to your organization’s capacity.
• Complement existing programs rather than competing with them.

Quick Readiness Assessment

Answer these key questions to determine if your organization is ready:

Assessment Question	Ready to Proceed If…	Address Before Proceeding If…
Do you have dogs that would benefit from additional enrichment or adoption visibility?	Yes – even a few eligible dogs can start your program	No – focus first on identifying which dogs might benefit.
Could your organization attract volunteers interested in field trips?	Yes – through existing volunteer base or community outreach.	No – consider building your volunteer recruitment strategy first.
Do you have at least one staff member who could dedicate some time to program coordination?	Yes – even just 2-3 hours weekly to start.	No – identify who might incorporate this role into existing duties.
Do you have basic supplies (leashes, adoption vests, etc.)?	Yes – or have means to acquire them through donation.	No – create a simple “wish list” for specific program needs.

If you answered “yes” to at least the first two questions, your organization is likely an excellent candidate for implementing a temporary outing program. Even resource-limited shelters have successfully launched these programs with minimal startup investment.

Setting Program Objectives

Establishing clear objectives is crucial for program success, resource allocation, and impact measurement. Well-defined goals help maintain focus while demonstrating value to stakeholders and funders.

Defining Your Focus

Consider the primary outcomes that matter most to your organization, such as:

• Reduced length of stay for participating dogs
• Increased adoption rates
• Improved behavioral outcomes
• Expanded volunteer engagement
• Enhanced community visibility.

SMART Objectives Framework

Develop program objectives using the SMART framework—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound:

Component	Description	Example
Specific	Clearly define what you aim to accomplish	“Provide field trips for dogs who have been in the shelter >30 days”
Measurable	Include concrete metrics to track progress	“Facilitate 50 outings per quarter”
Achievable	Set goals realistic for your resources	Start with 2-3 outings weekly if resources are limited
Relevant	Align with your organization’s broader mission	Connect to overall adoption or enrichment goals
Time-bound	Establish timeframes for evaluation	“Within first 6 months of program implementation”

Sample SMART Objectives:

• “Facilitate 50 field trip outings for long-term residents (>60 days) per quarter, with at least 25% resulting in positive social media content.”
• “Generate 20 adoption inquiries resulting in 10 adoptions of field trip participants within the first 6 months.”
•  “Convert 10% of field trip volunteers to long-term foster caregivers or regular shelter volunteers within 3 months of their first outing.”
• “Establish partnerships with 5 local businesses to jointly promote the program within 6 months of launch.”

Connecting Objectives to Evaluation

Each objective should link to specific, trackable metrics that demonstrate your program’s success and impact. When developing your objectives, consider:

• Data availability: Ensure you can realistically collect the necessary data.
• Resource requirements: Assign clear responsibilities for tracking each metric.
• Stakeholder interests: Include metrics that resonate with volunteers and donors.
• Leading indicators: Identify early signals that indicate you’re on the right track.

Well-designed objectives not only guide implementation but also provide a framework for ongoing program assessment and continuous improvement.

Planning Your Own Doggy Day Out or Sleepover Program

Unlike complex shelter initiatives, such as building a spay/neuter clinic — which require substantial funding, medical expertise, and extensive planning — temporary outing programs can be implemented relatively quickly with minimal resources. By following a structured approach, many shelters have established successful programs in just a few weeks.

0. Quick-Start Toolkit

Multiple organizations have developed comprehensive guides to help you build your own temporary outing program:

Resource	What’s Included
Mutual Rescue’s Doggy Day Out toolkit	Step-by-step process, sample volunteer manual, liability waivers, dog selection criteria
Maddie’s Fund toolkit (Field Trips) Maddie’s Fund toolkit (Sleepovers)	Program planning tasks, best practices, program checklist, marketing plan, press release template
VCA Charities workbook	Essential items list, step-by-step implementation guide, list of safety considerations

1. Team Assembly

A successful program requires specific responsibilities to be assigned. Consider whether these key roles can be handled by existing team members or volunteers:

i) Program Coordination

• Primary responsibility: Overall program management and volunteer coordination
• Key tasks: Volunteer recruitment, scheduling, program evaluation
• Ideal candidate: Volunteer coordinator, adoption counselor, or dedicated volunteer

ii) Dog Selection

• Primary responsibility: Screening and determining eligible dogs
• Key tasks: Behavioral assessment, matching dogs with appropriate volunteers
• Ideal candidate: Behavior team member, experienced kennel staff

iii) Volunteer Caregiver Coordination

• Primary responsibility: Handle pick-up and drop-off processes
• Key tasks: Introduction to program, ensure important processes are followed
• Ideal candidate: Customer-facing team members or volunteers

iv) Field Support Contact

• Primary responsibility: Available during outings for volunteer questions/emergencies
• Key tasks: Handling issues that arise during field trips, emergency response
• Ideal candidate: Staff member already on duty during outing times

v) Marketing Support

• Primary responsibility: Promoting program and sharing success stories
• Key tasks: Social media management, partnership arrangement
• Ideal candidate: Marketing staff, social media volunteer, or program coordinator

2. The Ground Rules

Begin by establishing key principles for your program. Clear guidelines ensure consistency, safety, and alignment with your organization’s values.

Dog Eligibility

While few absolute rules exist regarding dog eligibility, organizations should exclude dogs that aren’t vaccinated or show signs of illness. According to Mutual Rescue’s Doggy Day Out toolkit, ideal candidates include:

• High energy but manageable dogs
• Dogs not receiving sufficient exercise in the shelter
• Dogs that are not mouthy or easily over-aroused
• Dogs with no history of dog or human aggression
• May be somewhat dog-reactive but easily refocused with treats
• Overlooked or older dogs without behavioral issues needing exposure
• Dogs showing signs of kennel stress (barking, drooling) without aggression.

They advise against including dogs that are:

• Excessively mouthy or jumpy
• Significantly dog or people-reactive
• Those with any aggression history
• Dogs showing signs of distress after previous outings.

Incorporate the eligibility check as part of your intake or behavioral assessment process. Maintain a diverse selection of eligible dogs to match with volunteers of varying experience levels. When placing dogs with known behavioral issues, prioritize transparency and provide robust volunteer caregiver support, as these dogs have a significantly higher return rate due to behavioral challenges.

Dog-Dog Interaction Policies

Should dogs on field trips be allowed to interact with other dogs, including volunteers’ pets? This question has no universal answer, with organizations taking different approaches:

Approach	Benefits	Considerations
No interaction allowed	Maximum safety, reduced liability	Limits volunteer pool, especially for sleepovers
Case-by-case assessment	Flexibility based on individual dogs	Requires more staff time for evaluation
Limited interaction with volunteer’s resident dogs	Expands volunteer pool	Must explain how dogs should meet each other. Preferably the dogs should meet with staff’s presence.

Your approach should align with your organization’s overall policies, such as those of your regular foster program.

Real-World Example: For the safety and well-being of all dogs involved, VCA Charities advises against introducing field trip dogs to other dogs during their outing. On the other hand, Dogs Trust Ireland provides guidance on volunteer eligibility related to family dogs, explaining that volunteers with pets may or may not qualify depending on the specific shelter dog selected for outings.

3. Logistics Planning

To effectively plan your program’s logistics, collaborate with relevant stakeholders, such as the caregiver coordinator and marketing point person, to secure their support and integrate program details into their routine activities.

Outing Duration

Consider appropriate durations for your program:

• Field Trips: Typically 1-8 hours
• Sleepover Programs: Usually 1-2 nights, with many shelters focusing on weekends
• Specialized Programs: Some organizations offer extended “weekend fostering” (Friday-Monday).

Scheduling Framework

Establish pick-up and drop-off times that accommodate:

• Your organization’s staffing schedule
• Volunteer availability patterns
• Adoption hours (ideally, dogs return before peak adoption times).

Sample Schedule:

• Field Trip Pick-ups: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• Field Trip Returns: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM (before peak adoption hours)
• Sleepover Pick-ups: Friday 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Sleepover Returns: Sunday 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM.

Program Capacity

Determine how many outings you can reasonably support:

• Starting capacity: 2-3 outings per day is manageable for most organizations
• Limiting factors: Equipment availability, staff for check-in/out, eligible dogs
• Scaling approach: Increase gradually as processes become more efficient.

Emergency Protocols

While specific emergencies require case-by-case responses, establish baseline protocols:

• Clear definition: What constitutes an emergency that requires immediate return vs. a question
• Contact chain: Primary and backup emergency contacts
• Medical incidents: When to contact staff vs. approved veterinarians
• Documentation: Incident report requirements and procedures.

Efficiency Tip: Best Friends Animal Society uses an automated voicemail system that forwards urgent messages to on-duty staff, allowing them to support overnight sleepovers without constant phone monitoring.

Data Collection

Your temporary outing program generates a wealth of valuable data that can significantly enhance adoption efforts. However, this resource is often underutilized. To maximize impact, implement a systematic approach to collecting, organizing, and strategically applying the insights gained from each dog’s outing experience.

Key Data Collection Areas

• Visual Storytelling:
  • Capture high-quality photographs of dogs in natural, engaging settings, moving beyond traditional kennel imagery.
  • Create short videos showcasing positive behaviors, personality quirks, and interactions.
  • Document visible reductions in stress through before-and-after comparisons.

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• Behavioral Observations:
  • Record detailed observations of how dogs interact with diverse environments (homes, parks, public spaces).
  • Document responses to various stimuli, including other animals, children, and environmental noises.
  • Assess energy levels and exercise requirements observed during outings.
• Personal Narratives:;
  • Gather volunteer testimonials that highlight memorable moments and unique personality traits.
  • Collect specific anecdotes and observations that resonate with potential adopters.

Strategic Use of Data

To maximize the impact of your temporary outing program, establish a clear and consistent process for utilizing the collected data. Implement the following strategies:

• Digital Platform: Implement a simple, user-friendly digital system (e.g., shared cloud folder, dedicated app) for volunteers to easily upload and share photos and videos.
• Scheduled Profile Updates: Establish a recurring schedule (e.g., weekly) for staff to update dog profiles with new observations, photos, and videos from outings.
• Social Media Storytelling: Integrate compelling dog outing stories, photos, and videos into your regular social media content calendar to engage potential adopters and highlight the program’s success.
• Newsletter Spotlights: Feature program participants and their transformation stories in your organization’s newsletter, showcasing the positive impact of temporary outings.
• Media Outreach: Develop compelling press releases and pitches to share impactful transformation stories with local and regional media outlets, expanding program visibility.

4. Equipment and Resources

Providing volunteers with all necessary equipment ensures safety, consistency, and program success. Below is a comprehensive list of supplies needed for both field trips and sleepovers.

Core Equipment Checklist

For Dogs:

• Martingale collars
• GPS collars (prevent escape during outings)
• Leashes 
• Properly fitted harnesses (VCA charities recommend Freedom No Pull harnesses)
• “Adopt Me” vests or bandanas (for marketing visibility)
• Water bottles and bowls (collapsible travel bowls work well)
• Waste bags for clean-up.

For Transportation:

• Car seat covers or blankets (protect volunteer vehicles)
• Car restraint systems or travel crates (for safe transport)
• Towels (for muddy paws or spills)

For Volunteers:

• Field trip backpacks/bags (to carry supplies)
• Laminated information packets (with emergency contacts, nearby pet-friendly locations)
• Business cards or marketing materials (to hand out to interested adopters)
• Field trip report cards (to document dog behavior and experiences)

Additional Items for Sleepovers:

• Food portioned in baggies (to maintain consistent diet)
• Treats (familiar to the dog to prevent digestive issues)
• Medication if applicable (with clear administration instructions)
• Comfort items from kennel (familiar bed or toy)
• Basic first aid supplies (for minor incidents)
• Crate (if dog is crate-trained or for safe confinement)

Pack field trip items in drawstring bags or backpacks that volunteers can grab and go. For sleepover programs, create “overnight kits” with everything needed for a successful stay.

In-Shelter Preparation

Create systems within your shelter to support the program:

• Kennel identification: Develop tags or signage to indicate when a dog is on an outing.
• Eligibility boards: Some shelters use magnetic boards to track eligible dogs and their status.
• Check-out station: Designate a specific area for volunteer orientation and dog hand-offs.

5. Funding

Due to relatively modest expenses, most organizations can fund temporary outing programs through existing operational budgets. For dedicated funding, consider these approaches:

Funding Strategies

Grant Opportunities:

• Petfinder Foundation offers a specific grant for Dog Field Trip and Short-Term Fostering programs in the U.S.
• Maddie’s Fund provides innovation grants that can support program development in the U.S.
• Local community foundations often fund programs that enhance community engagement.

Business Partnerships:

• Pet supply retailers: Approach for donated equipment (leashes, harnesses, adoption vests).
• Outdoor retailers: Request sponsorship in exchange for social media promotion.
• Pet-friendly businesses: Develop “field trip destination” partnerships with discounts for volunteers.

Individual Donor Approaches:

• Create a “sponsor a field trip” program with specific donation amounts.
• Develop an Amazon Wish List specifically for program supplies.
• Host a “gear drive” event requesting specific needed items.

Cost-Saving Measures:

• Repurpose existing foster program equipment when possible.
• Use volunteer seamstresses to create “Adopt Me” bandanas.
• Engage volunteer photographers to document outings for marketing.

Designing the Doggy Day Out Volunteer Experience

With program objectives, ground rules, and equipment in place, it’s time to focus on optimizing the volunteer experience from discovery through participation.

Who Are Your Volunteers?

Being strategic about volunteer recruitment significantly impacts program success. While most volunteers are motivated by helping animals, different groups have distinct needs and availability patterns:

Potential Volunteer Groups

Local Residents

• Young professionals: Often seek flexible volunteering with no long-term commitment.
• Families with children: Look for meaningful activities they can do together.
• Remote workers: May appreciate midday breaks and company during work-from-home days.
• Retirees: Often have weekday availability when shelter is less busy.

Visitors and Tourists

• Vacationers missing their pets: Seek animal connection while traveling.
• Community outdoor enthusiasts: Look for hiking, running or walking companions.

Tourism-Focused Success: Kaua’i Humane Society’s “Field Trips for Shelter Dogs” program engages tourists who take dogs on island adventures, offering enrichment, enabling hundreds of adoptions, while generating thousands of dollars in donations annually.

Corporate and Group Volunteers

• Workplace teams: Seeking team-building activities with purpose.
• University groups: Looking for regular service opportunities.

Publicity & Recruitment

Building Awareness

Volunteer recruitment represents the most critical element of a successful program. Research demonstrates that shelters utilizing broad community involvement (volunteers and local businesses) achieve significantly better outcomes with temporary outing programs.

Develop targeted marketing messages based on your identified audience above. Promote your program through:

• Website and social media channels
• Community groups such as runner’s club and local apps like Nextdoor
• Traditional media, such as local press, TV and radio stations
• Offline channels including pet-friendly businesses (consider QR code sign-up)

• Local university and corporate volunteer programs.
• “Top things to do” lists, especially for Doggy Day Out or Sleepover programs targeting tourists.

Implement a comprehensive approach covering both online and offline channels for maximum visibility. If you’re starting with a pilot program before official launch, consider limiting full marketing efforts initially.

Public Education

Many potential volunteers may be unfamiliar with temporary outing concepts. Clearly explain:

• Program purpose and structure
• Evidence-based benefits for shelter dogs
• Volunteer participation process
• Answers to frequently asked questions.

Registration Systems

Consider whether structured pre-registration or casual walk-in participation better suits your organization:

Pre-Registration Benefits:

• Digital processing of volunteer information
• Allows participants to review training materials in advance
• Easier scheduling and dog matching
• Example: KC Pet Project uses a streamlined online registration system.

For pre-registration systems, you can even incorporate liability waivers and training videos into your sign-up forms.

Walk-In Benefits:

• Eliminates technical barriers
• Simplifies participation for spontaneous volunteers
• Appeals to tourists and one-time participants
• Example: Fredericksburg Regional SPCA welcomes drop-in participants.

Program Fees: Most U.S. programs are free, with notable exceptions like Kaua’i Humane Society, which requests upfront donations. An inclusive alternative is gently asking if volunteers would sponsor a dog’s food for a period (e.g., one week) following their outing.

Volunteer Onboarding & Training

For digitally pre-registered volunteers, email introductory materials, training resources, and program guides in advance.

Keep training concise and focused on essential information:

• The volunteer’s critical role in dog welfare
• Basic field trip process walkthrough
• Fundamental safety protocols
• Simple dog handling techniques
• Useful data to collect on behalf of your organization.

Tailor your volunteer training by adding field trip-specific modules to existing materials, and streamline the content to prevent overwhelming and discouraging volunteers. Research shows that shorter, focused training sessions result in higher volunteer retention rates.

The Pickup Process

Documents and Procedures

A smooth, efficient pickup process sets volunteers up for success.

Volunteer Manual Development

The volunteer manual should be available in two formats: a comprehensive digital version and a condensed physical version.

Comprehensive Digital Manual: Create a detailed manual that volunteers can access online with complete program information:

• Organization mission and program objectives
• Volunteer responsibilities and expectations
• Detailed dog handling guidelines
• Complete emergency protocols
• Frequently asked questions
• Recommended activities and locations
• Photo/social media policies
• Adoption promotion guidelines
• Liability waiver forms.

Condensed Physical Manual: Provide a brief physical guide at dog pick-up that can be explained in two minutes:

• Essential contact information (highlighted prominently)
• Basic dog care instructions
• Recommended activities and locations
• Quick emergency response protocols
• QR code linking to the comprehensive digital manual.

The physical guide fulfills two key functions: First, it enables the volunteer caregiver coordinator to conduct a detailed checklist review, ensuring clarity and highlighting critical information like the dog’s preferred activities. Second, it provides a vital offline resource for volunteers during outings, especially crucial in emergency scenarios where digital access may be limited.

Liability Protection

A properly executed liability waiver represents your most important legal protection in case of incidents. Ensure volunteers sign this document during registration or pickup. Staff handling volunteer greetings should thoroughly understand the waiver to address questions about legal terminology.

Security Deposits

Some organizations request identification or credit card information as a form of deposit to ensure dog returns. Consider whether this practice aligns with your organizational values and goals.

Alternative Approach: Instead of requiring deposits, creates a sense of community accountability through social media “check-ins” where volunteers post photos of their outings prior to the outing, naturally creating a system of public commitment.

Marketing Materials

Equip volunteers with:

• “Adopt Me” vests or bandanas (ensuring dogs are comfortable wearing these)
• Business cards with dog name or ID number, contact information and QR code
• Materials for interested parties to submit inquiries
• Simple conversation starters about adoption for when the public asks about the dog.

Use unique QR codes to track adoption inquiries specifically originating from field trip encounters.

The Send-Off

Assist volunteers with safely loading dogs into vehicles and verify they feel comfortable managing the dog before departure. Take a moment to:

• Confirm the volunteer feels confident handling the specific dog
• Review the return time expectations
• Check that they have all necessary supplies
• Answer any last-minute questions
• Promote open communication by assuring volunteers that questions and early returns are always welcome.

During the Outing

Allow volunteers creative freedom while providing activity suggestions. Recommend:

• Mentally enriching experiences (city explorations, nature trails)
• Low-stress activities (even napping at the volunteer’s residence)
• Partner business visits (pet-friendly cafés, stores)
• Quiet environments for shy or anxious dogs.

Remember that even minimal activity benefits dogs by providing relief from shelter noise and isolation.

Leveraging Social Media

Identify photogenic locations near your shelter (hiking trails, landmarks). Encourage volunteers to take photos and share on social media with specific hashtags. NYC ACC, for example, asks volunteers to photograph dogs at famous landmarks and post online.

Create a short list of suggested hashtags for volunteers to use when posting about their experience. Example: #AdoptDontShop #DoggyDayOut #[YourShelterName]

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Community-Based Activities

Capitalize on busy community events.Arizona Humane Society, for example, found that dogs attending these events boast an 86% adoption rate within three days. Strengthen community ties by partnering with local businesses for:

• Discounts for volunteers
• Free treats for participating dogs
• Social media cross-promotion
• Special “dog-friendly” hours or events.

Model these partnerships after Saving Grace Humane Society’s Fido Field Trip Program, where a local cafe provides treats and social media promotion.

Making It Fun

Incorporate gamification elements like NYC ACC’s bingo card, which challenges volunteers to complete tasks (visiting landmarks, posting on social media) for prizes including merchandise or partner discounts.

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Return & Reporting

Upon return, ask volunteers to complete a simple report card providing valuable insights about the dog’s behavior outside the shelter environment. Keep forms concise — many organizations use one-page formats with few questions. Consider digital options for easier data management, providing tablets for on-site completion.

Key Report Card Elements:

• Dog’s energy level and sociability
• Interactions with people, other dogs, or environments
• Behavioral observations (both positive traits and challenges)
• Potential adoption matches or environments.

Volunteer Follow-Up

Transform casual volunteers into long-term foster caregivers or donors by nurturing relationships beyond the initial return. Build lasting connections through:

• Thank-you emails following outings (ideally sent within 24 hours)
• Invitations to become “ambassadors” for specific dogs
• Updates when dogs are adopted (with photos when possible)
• Opportunities for deeper program involvement (recruiting/training new volunteers).

These follow-up practices transform one-time participants into engaged, long-term supporters of both individual dogs and your overall program.

Documenting Program Policies

A temporary outing program typically relies on multiple staff and volunteers performing various tasks, including dog assessment, pick-up orientation, and data entry. A well-structured set of program policies helps maintain consistency across all program areas.

Draft an internal-use Doggy Day Out program policy document to include:

• Dog selection criteria and assessment protocols
• Staff responsibilities and workflow procedures
• Emergency protocols and incident reporting procedures
• Checklists for pick-up and drop-off processes
• Data collection, entry, and utilization procedures
• Communication protocols between staff and volunteers
• Waivers and forms.

Pilot Before Full Launch

Before implementing the program at scale, conduct a pilot phase to identify and address potential issues:

• Start small: Begin with a limited number of well-behaved dogs.
• Select experienced volunteers: Recruit trusted volunteers for initial outings.
• Gather feedback: Collect detailed input on what works and what needs improvement.
• Refine materials: Update your forms, policies and volunteer manual based on pilot experiences.
• Adjust processes: Modify program elements as needed before full implementation.

Many successful programs run a one month pilot program before expanding to full operation.

Program Evaluation: Measuring Impact

Effective evaluation helps demonstrate program value and identify opportunities for improvement.

Metric Monitoring

Track both individual outing metrics and aggregate program data:

Individual Outing Metrics:

• Volunteer name and email contact 
• Length of outing
• Activities completed
• Social media engagement (e.g. number of posts)
• Challenges encountered
• Positive outcomes observed.

Aggregate Program Metrics:

• Total number of outings completed
• Frequency of outings for each involved dog
• Total volunteer hours contributed
• Social media engagement
• Adoption inquiries generated
• Successful adoptions resulting from the program
• Average length of stay for participating vs. non-participating dogs.

Impact Reporting

Effective impact reports combine quantitative data with compelling narratives. Structure your reports to serve multiple audiences:

• For donors: Highlight return on investment and community impact.
• For volunteers: Showcase their collective contribution.
• For partners: Demonstrate mutual benefits and collaborative successes.
• For the public: Tell engaging stories about transformed lives—both canine and human.

Visualization Approach: Create simple infographics showing key metrics such as “total dogs enjoying field trips” or “average stress reduction” to make your impact instantly understandable.

Continuous Improvement Through Evaluation

To truly maximize the impact of your program, view evaluation data as more than just a reporting requirement; see it as a compass guiding continuous refinement. Regularly review activity feedback to pinpoint the most successful outing types, leveraging those insights to enhance future experiences. Analyze adoption outcomes to fine-tune your dog selection criteria, ensuring the best possible matches are made. Solicit and diligently evaluate volunteer feedback, using their perspectives to strengthen training and support systems. And finally, don’t shy away from assessing operational challenges; instead, use them as opportunities to streamline processes and create a more efficient, impactful program.

Additional Resources

Organizations and Programs Supporting Doggy Day Out

To enhance your program, explore the following resources, which include in-person training opportunities and best practice guides:

• Join Mutual Rescue’s Doggy Day Out program, focused on connecting shelters running temporary outing or Borrow A Buddy programs.
• Sign up for VCA Charities’ in-person Dog Day Out training.
• Watch these webcasts on how foster field trips and sleepovers could help.
• Review ASPCA’s tips for successful program implementation.
• Read more academic studies on foster care on The Dog Welfare Project.

Community Networks Supporting Doggy Day Out

Effective programs thrive on connection. The following networks offer invaluable platforms for knowledge sharing, mutual support, and amplified collective impact.

• Doggy Day Out Program Administrators
• Animal Shelter Adult Dog Foster Care
• Maddie’s Pet Forum.

Conclusion

A well-designed temporary outing program can significantly enhance dog welfare, increase adoption rates, and strengthen community engagement. By developing comprehensive SOPs and volunteer manuals, conducting careful pilot testing, and implementing robust evaluation processes, your organization can create a sustainable program that benefits dogs, volunteers, and the broader community.

Remember that program development is an iterative process—continue to refine your approach based on experience and feedback to maximize your impact over time. The stories of transformed lives—both canine and human—make every step of this journey worthwhile.

Related Topics

• Examples of Shelter Dog Field Trip, Temporary Outing, and Sleepover Programs