When the County shelter is full, as it has been most of this spring and early summer, the stress level for the dogs rises considerably. The adoption floor is louder with barks and howls, and the dogs become amped up, needing to relieve their anxiety by going on more walks, running in the play yard or spending quality quiet time on the couch with a volunteer.
But even these on-site activities don’t allow them to find complete relief from the pressure of living among so many other confused and scared homeless pets. They crave a brief escape. They need to get out of Dodge. See new sites. Meet new people.
How? By going on a date with a County resident.
Krysta Buchholz and her young son took seven-year-old, 60-pound mixed breed Gwyneth out on a date and took selfies and other photos to post on Facebook
“We had a fun doggie date!” Buchholz said. “She was promised snow cones but Pelican’s was way too busy, so we opted for a nature walk! It was a little difficult getting her in and out of the car, but overall she did well! “
Tiffany Stapleton and her young son, Brooks also enjoyed their separate dates with shelter dogs Scout and Lex.
“I read about FOTAS Doggie Days Out online and thought it would be great for the kids and a way to help out,” Stapleton said. “We took Lex out to Citizens Park and then to Chick-fil-A for lunch.” Early on, the six-year-old Retriever mix, hopped from the back seat to the front seat, excited but unsure of what to do in a car. But by the time they made their return to the shelter, Lex was more relaxed and cozied up to Brooks in the back seat.
“I think the program is very valuable to the dogs and teaches the kids responsibility and patience,” Stapleton added. “It also exposes the dogs to new experiences and social situations, which prepares them for their eventual home.”
The dogs always come back from their Doggie Dates happier and more relaxed. They often go back to their kennels exhausted and ready to get some much-needed sleep.
If you can help by taking a dog on a day out or even a sleepover, stop by the shelter, 333 Wire Road, or call 803.642.1537, option 3. It’s fun, easy and gives the dogs the break they need!
Their lives are in our hands.
– By Bob Gordon, FOTAS Communications Director
