Take a shelter dog out on Adventure Buddies Day
Hike a trail, splash at the beach, take a drive, or just cuddle on the couch. It’s a chance for you to hang out with a grateful dog and for them to spend time outside the shelter, playing, sniffing, strolling, and taking in the sights. Adventure Buddies Day is a fun, easy way for residents to get involved — no experience or long-term commitment required.
Think of it as a dog day out or a chance to spoil a deserving dog for a day. Either way, it’s an opportunity for humans and canines alike to enjoy some companionship, fun, and adventure. Best of all, it’s happening all over the country on September 19 at participating shelters — no adoption or long-term commitment needed.
Adventure Buddies Day is part of our larger adventure buddy program that runs year-round at all Best Friends locations.
Why a day out matters for dogs in shelters
Programs like this help shelters and communities build mutual trust, inviting people to experience what a shelter can offer beyond adoption and help to save pets’ lives.
Find a participating shelter near you
We're collaborating with shelters across the country that are looking for adventure buddies like you.
Pacific Region
Mountain West Region
Arizona
Chandler
Utah
Kanab
Utah
Salt Lake City
Great Plains Region
South Central Region
Arkansas
Bentonville
Oklahoma
Chickasha
Chickasha Animal Shelter
405-222-6050
Texas
Center
Happy Tails Adoption Center
903-808-2590
Texas
Plainview
Plainview Animal Shelter
806-296-1100
Midwest Region
Indiana
Evansville
Evansville Animal Care & Control
812-435-6015
Mid-Atlantic Region
Kentucky
Benton
Southeast Region
Mississippi
Meridian
City of Meridian Animal Shelter
601-485-2325
Don't live near a participating shelter?
Contact your local shelter to find out whether you can take a out a dog for a day of fun and adventure on September 19 (or any other day).
Take an adoptable dog out any day
It’s one of the easiest and most fun ways to help adoptable dogs. Some call it a dog day out or simply the chance to spoil a dog for a day. Either way, it means a few hours of fun and companionship — no adoption or foster commitment required. All you need is some time to walk, hike, cuddle, ride, or sightsee to provide a welcome outing for a grateful dog. Best of all, you can participate in the adventure buddy program any day of the year at select Best Friends locations.
How the year-round program works every day at Best Friends locations
- Select your preferred location and sign up online. It takes about 15 to 20 minutes and includes a short orientation video.
- Find out who your buddy will be. Staff will match you based on your plans, your experience, and the dog's personality.
- Pick up your buddy and your supplies. Everything you need, including a leash and water bowl, is provided.
- Enjoy your day! Please stick to dog-friendly places and activities that match the dog's comfort and energy.
- Return your buddy and share how it went. Your notes can help ensure the right adopter for the dog.
Best Friends adventure buddy program
Best Friends in Los Angeles will be providing support to local network shelter for Adventure Buddies Day on September 19 and won’t be hosting on-site opportunities at the pet adoption center that day.
Want to hear about more events like this?
Drop in your email and we’ll let you know about fun outings and events, along with other ways to get involved. We look forward to getting to know you.
