Love Dogs? Then Do Good While Working Out

This post isn't a question but a suggestion. I work for a humane society, and I would like to encourage fellow MFPers to consider volunteering to walk adult dogs/large puppies at your local shelter.

Our adult dog walkers log anywhere from 2-6 hours when they come out to volunteer, and I cannot even imagine the miles they walk! Yes, they get a little muddy, but they also are rewarded with unconditional love from animals grateful to have a little time out of their kennel.

Everyone loves small puppies and wants to play with them, but most of the older dogs at the shelter where I work have been with us for a while (we don't euthanize) and they are in a kennel sometimes 23 hours a day. Volunteering to walk adult dogs/older puppies, even if it's just a hour or two a week, is a win-win for both you and the dogs. In addition to the exercise time, socialization with humans is so important for them to be adopted!

NOTE: Do call ahead to your shelter and ask their "rules" for volunteering. We have a core group of volunteers who go through orientation and receive training (if they come on a regular basis) but we will allow any adult to come out periodically, but there are a few guidelines.

THANK FOR CONSIDERING THIS ACTIVITY.....I can testify first-hand what a positive difference it makes for shelter animals to have this socialization and exercise!