The Patty Baker Humane Society Naples (PBHSN) will invite dog lovers to celebrate National Spoil Your Dog Day on August 10 by treating an adoptable dog to a special day out or a relaxing night in through its Rescue Recess and Couch Crashers programs.
Rescue Recess
This program invites participants to take a shelter dog on a short adventure. These trips give dogs a much-needed break from the kennel environment, a chance to burn off energy, and valuable one-on-one attention while helping community members get to know the dogs available for adoption.
Participants can check in at the main shelter, where staff will pair them with a Rescue Recess companion. The humane society provides the essentials, including a collar, leash, and backpack containing water, a bowl, treats, waste bags, and a list of dog-friendly locations in Naples.
Ideas for Rescue Recess:
- Go for a walk at a nearby park. Explore a route that is new to the shelter pup, with plenty of opportunities to rest and take water breaks.
- Stop for a dog-safe treat. Use the treats provided by PBHSN or visit a nearby business that offers veterinarian-approved snacks or frozen treats made with dog-safe ingredients.
- Spend quiet time together outdoors. Relax in a shaded outdoor space and offer calm, one-on-one attention away from the activity of the shelter.
- Let the dog set the pace. Pay attention to the dog’s body language and allow time to sniff, explore, and take in the surroundings.
- Capture the experience. Take photos and note observations about the dog’s personality, favorite activities, and behavior outside the shelter. These details can help a future family understand how to make the dog feel most at home.
After the outing, participants can share their photos and observations by emailing media@pbhsnaples.org or posting on social media using #RescueRecess. Every observation helps staff learn more about each dog and gives future adopters a glimpse of the dog’s genuine personality.
Rescue Recess is available from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday (except between 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.), and from 8:30 to 11 a.m. Saturday and Sunday.
Couch Crashers
Community members interested in spending more time with a shelter dog can participate in the Couch Crashers program, a low-commitment foster initiative designed for people with busy schedules. PBHSN’s foster team matches participants with a dog suited to their home and lifestyle, giving the animal a chance to enjoy a night in the calm and comfort of a temporary home. Those who form a special connection with their Couch Crasher may also explore extending the foster period or beginning the adoption process.
To learn more about fostering opportunities, email foster@pbhsnaples.org. To learn about all the ways to get involved, visit pbhsnaples.org.
Featured image: Winter is available for adoption at the Patty Baker Humane Society Naples’ Main Shelter. To learn more about him, click here.
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