July 16, 2024

by Sarah A. Neikam, SPCA Albrecht Center Marketing Director

Summer is the perfect time for outdoor adventures, and what could make those adventures even better? How about the company of a shelter dog! The SPCA Albrecht Center for Animal Welfare offers Albrecht Adventure Days, a fun “doggie day out” program where you can borrow a shelter dog for a day of exploration and fun. It’s easy to participate, and the benefits for both you and the dogs are tremendous.

Albrecht Adventure Days was designed to provide shelter dogs with a much-needed break from the animal shelter. It offers the dogs valuable experiences in the outside world, increasing their chances of finding forever homes. When dogs are taken out of the shelter, they have the opportunity to relax, explore and show their true personalities, making them more appealing to potential adopters.

For the dogs, the program provides:

Stress Relief: Time outside of the shelter helps dogs relax and show their true personalities.

Socialization: Interactions with different environments, people, and possibly other pets help improve the dogs’ social skills.

Adoption Potential: Photos and stories shared on social media can reach potential adopters who might fall in love with the dog’s personality.

And For You:

Flexible Commitment: Even if you can’t commit to adopting or fostering a dog, a day trip can still make a huge difference.

Fun and Fulfillment: Spend a day filled with joy and companionship, knowing you’re making a positive impact on a shelter dog’s life.

Be a Dog Advocate: By sharing your experience, you help expand the program’s reach and increase the dog’s chances of finding a home.

These field trips are not just fun; they can be life-changing for the dogs. Long stays in shelters can lead to anxiety and behavioral issues, but a simple day out can alleviate stress and help dogs become more adoptable. The personal attention and love they receive during these trips are invaluable, allowing the dogs to practice bonding with humans.

Participating in Albrecht Adventure Days is simple and doesn’t require any prior experience, training or even an appointment. Here’s how you can join in:

Come by the SPCA Albrecht Center (Monday – Saturday, 11 AM – 3 PM).

Complete a short form with your contact information and details about your adventure plans. All the essentials will be provided, including a guide with a list of local dog-friendly places and FAQs for situations that might arise.

With help from shelter staff, choose a dog companion for your day out and enjoy your adventure! Whether it’s a hike, a brunch date, a cozy couch binge-watch session, or any other dog-friendly activity, your time together will provide the dog with a joyous break from shelter life.

Use social media to post about your day. You never know—your posts might catch the eye of the dog’s future forever family!

Upon returning the dog to the shelter, you’ll be asked to complete a simple ‘report card’ of your time with the dog. This information offers insight into the dog’s personality and behavior that helps staff in their efforts to find his forever home.

And if you decide you don’t want the adventure to end when it’s time to return, ask about doggie sleepovers!

Help us give more shelter dogs the chance to explore the world, one adventure at a time. Visit the SPCA Albrecht Center Monday through Saturday from 11 AM to 3 PM, and embark on an unforgettable journey with a shelter dog. A single day of adventure can make a world of difference in their lives.

Sarah Neikam is the Marketing Director for the SPCA Albrecht Center in Aiken, SC. She has been with the organization since 2012, holding various roles including Volunteer Coordinator and Director of Operations & HR. A Certified Animal Welfare Administrator as of 2022, Sarah is a passionate advocate for animal welfare. She resides in Aiken with her husband, Tom, and several beloved cats.