Doggy Day Out – Give a Shelter Dog a Day of Freedom
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to see the world through a dog’s eyes? Doggy Day Out gives volunteers across Fort Worth the chance to find out — and to create a day that a shelter dog will never forget. This unique program lets you take dogs out of the kennel and into real-world environments, giving them experiences that build confidence, reduce stress, and showcase their personalities in ways the shelter walls never could.
Whether you’re volunteering at the North Animal Campus or Silcox Animal Shelter, each outing is an adventure. Imagine strolling along a scenic trail, enjoying a sunny afternoon at a dog-friendly café, or bringing a dog to a local adoption event. Every moment is more than just fun — it’s meaningful enrichment that helps dogs practice socialization, build confidence, and develop skills that make them more adoptable. And the best part? Volunteers get to see these transformations firsthand, creating a connection with a dog that goes beyond the kennel.
Doggy Day Out isn’t just about the dogs — it’s about making an impact. Every adventure provides shelter staff with valuable insights into a dog’s behavior, personality, and preferences. By observing them in real-world situations, you’re helping staff make informed decisions about enrichment, placement, and training. The photos, stories, and notes you share don’t just capture memories — they tell each dog’s story to potential adopters and foster families, giving these animals the best chance at finding a forever home.
Whether it’s a scenic walk, a quiet afternoon at a park, or a fun stop at an adoption event, every dog experiences something new, enriching, and confidence-boosting. Volunteers witness firsthand the joy and transformation that even a single day can bring. These moments create lasting memories — for both you and the dog — and help the animal become the best version of themselves for potential adopters.
Beyond the fun, Doggy Day Out helps volunteers make a measurable difference. You’re contributing to a dog’s mental well-being, socialization, and readiness for adoption. Each observation and photo you provide gives staff critical insights that can change a dog’s outcome, helping them move from the shelter to the home they deserve. Every tail wag, playful jump, and confident stride is proof of the difference volunteers make every day.
This program is perfect for volunteers across Fort Worth! It’s for those who want hands-on experience, meaningful connections, and the joy of seeing a dog thrive outside the shelter. Whether you’re picking up a special dog for an adoption event, exploring trails, practicing leash skills, or helping a dog charm visitors at an adoption event, you’re doing work that truly matters.
Upon the pet’s return, take a few minutes to fill out our Doggy Day Out Report Card! You can find this, along with a list of pet-friendly establishments, in the Doggy Day Out Section of your Volunteer Resource Hub. This report card is where our team starts building the story of the pup you chose to take out — from their behavior on walks to new skills or quirks you observed along the way.
To get started, schedule your Doggy Day Out appointment through Acuity, then check in on your Galaxy volunteer app when picking up your dog and check out when you return them. These steps help ensure every outing is safe, smooth, and captured for the benefit of the dog and our shelter community.
Acuity Scheduling - for picking up the dog
Galaxy - logging volunteer hours
Doggy Day Out at PetSmart
Volunteers can also participate in Doggy Day Out at our PetSmart Everyday Adoption Centers, Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM. This program lets you take dogs out for an afternoon adventure or a cozy day on the couch, giving them enrichment, socialization, and a chance to shine outside the shelter. Each outing provides valuable insights for staff while creating meaningful connections between volunteers and the dogs they help. You don't need to schedule an appointment in Acuity for our PetSmart Centers - but don't forget to log your hours in Galaxy!
Plan your adventure, capture the memories, and make a difference. Dogs must be returned by 5PM unless otherwise coordinated with staff, but within that day, the experiences you share will ripple through their journey to a forever home. Step into this volunteer role and discover the magic of giving a dog a day they’ll never forget — and a chance for you to make a lasting impact too.