Doggy Day Out: Walk a Shelter Dog, Get Your Steps In!

ALBUQUERQUE – Looking to kickstart your health goals while doing good? The City of Albuquerque’s Animal Welfare Department (AWD) invites people to join the Doggy Day Out program, a win-win way to get your steps in while giving shelter dogs a break from the kennel.

This innovative program allows residents to take an adoptable dog from an AWD shelter on a “field trip” for a few hours or the whole day. Whether it's a long walk in the Bosque, a backyard hangout, or even a coffee shop stop, the simple act of spending time with a shelter dog gives them stress relief, exposure to new people, and a greater chance of adoption.

"Doggy Day Out is more than just a walk in the park, it's about connection, compassion, and community," said Mayor Tim Keller. "This program gets people moving, gives shelter dogs a happy break, and increases their chances of finding a forever home. It’s good for your heart, literally and figuratively."

Volunteers are encouraged to track their steps while enjoying quality time with their furry companions. These outings help dogs develop better leash manners, reduce kennel stress, and give AWD valuable insights into each dog’s behavior outside the shelter environment, all of which help improve adoption outcomes.

“We see it time and again; a Doggy Day Out can completely transform a dog’s demeanor,” said AWD Director Carolyn Ortega. “It gives us the information we need to match them with the right adopter and reminds our volunteers just how impactful a few hours can be."

Participants will receive essentials for their outing plus a guide with recommended dog-friendly destinations. While all dogs benefit from this program, AWD especially encourages outings with larger dogs, who often face more barriers to adoption and thrive with extra exercise.

Doggy Day Out is perfect for people who want to volunteer but can’t commit to a regular schedule. It’s also a fantastic way to fulfill those new year’s fitness resolutions while making a meaningful difference in a shelter dog’s life.

Doggy Day Out benefits include:

For dogs:

• Reduced kennel stress.
• Better socialization and leash training.
• Behavioral insights for better adoption matching.
• Greater visibility through social media and community exposure.

For volunteers:

• Increased daily steps and physical activity.
• Mental health boost and motivation.
• Unique bond with a loving dog.
• The joy of giving back to the community.

Ready to get started?
Email [email protected] with your contact information to begin the process. Volunteers must be 18 or older and complete a short application and dog-handling training.

Let’s take steps together, for your health and their future.

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