Volunteers can take dogs out of the shelter every Wednesday and Thursday.
SAN DIEGO — The San Diego Human Society's new Dog Day Out Program has been up and running for about a month.
Nina Thompson with the Humane Society told CBS 8 that with the shelter over capacity, Dog Day Out allows volunteers to take dogs out for three to four hours a day.
Not only do the dogs get some one-on-one love but it helps get them out of the kennel and into the community.
“The whole idea is to get them out of their kennels, cause the shelter environment can be so incredibly stressful for them,” said Thompson.
CBS 8 spent the day with Bob Cerasoli and Bentley the 7-year-old Australian Shepard on their second day out together.
“Bentley endeared himself to me the first time around so it was really cool to get to see him again, although I'd prefer to see him adopted,” Cerasoli said.
We followed them to a local pet store to pick up some treats for Bentley, where he was treated to some dog-safe ice cream. Then it was time to play in the park where squirrels were chased and treats were flowing.
If you want to take a dog like Bentley out for a day, you can sign up on the San Diego Humane Society's website for a time slot on Wednesdays or Thursdays. Volunteers must have proof of a valid drivers license.
“Most of the dogs who really need a break from the shelter are large dogs, because they're the ones who need exercise and a day out in the community,” said Thompson.
Bentley has been up for adoption since March and so many dogs need to find a loving home. Cerasoli says that even if you can't adopt, volunteering for a program like Dog Day Out is just as helpful.
“To the people of San Diego who like dogs pay attention to what's going on right now, because every little bit that you can do to help is going to help,” said Cerasoli.
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