Dog Day Getaway
What’s a Dog Day Getaway?
A Dog Day Getaway is a special program that allows you to take a shelter dog out for a few hours and give them a break from the shelter environment. During this time, dogs can relax, explore new places, meet new people, and enjoy real-life experiences outside the kennel.
This experience helps dogs feel happier and more confident while also helping our team learn more about their personalities. It also gives the community a chance to meet adoptable dogs, increasing their chances of finding loving forever homes and creating space in the shelter for more animals in need.
Key Benefits of a Dog Day Getaway
- Gives dogs a break from the shelter and reduces stress
- Helps dogs release energy and explore new environments
- Allows dogs to meet people and potential adopters
- Helps staff understand each dog’s personality better
- Promotes adoption through community exposure
- Creates more shelter space to help other dogs in need
Dog Getaway Program – How It Works
- Arrive at the shelter at your scheduled time to pick up your dog for the day.
- Receive a backpack with all essential supplies, a list of dog-friendly locations, and your getaway companion.
- Secure the dog safely in your car using the provided seat belt and head out for your adventure.
- Take photos and videos of your dog enjoying their day and share them on social media or email them to our team.
- Talk to people you meet about the dog to help spread the word about adoption opportunities.
- Return the dog before 5:00 PM at the end of the Getaway.
- Complete the Dog Report Card to share feedback about your experience.
- Celebrate knowing you made a meaningful difference in a dog’s life!
Reserve Your Getaway
Detroit
Mackey Center for Animal Care
-
7887 Chrysler Drive Detroit, MI 48211
1-866-648-6263
Westland
Berman Center for Animal Care
-
900 N. Newburgh Road Westland, MI 48185
1-866-648-6263
Sterling Heights
Adoption Center
-
13701 Lakeside Circle Sterling Heights, MI 48313
1-866-648-6263
Dog Day Getaway: Frequently Asked Questions
Does it cost anything to participate?
It does not.
Which locations offer the Dog Day Getaway program?
Our Detroit, Westland, and Sterling Heights adoption centers.
What kind of dog will I be paired with? Can I pick the dog I want to spend the day with?
A variety of dogs, however medium- and large-sized dogs, particularly young adults, benefit most from additional time outside of the shelter. Our staff will do their best to match you with a dog that meets your handling skills and plans for the day. If you are going for a hike you’ll be matched with a different dog than if you are planning on a quiet day at home.
Do I need any special supplies?
No! For your Dog Day Getaway Michigan Humane will supply you with all the supplies your dog will need for the day, from treats to collars and leashes, and even some fun toys.
Where can I take my dog during our getaway?
A Michigan Humane team member will provide you with a list of dog-friendly locations you may enjoy visiting. You can take the dog to your home, but we do ask that they be kept separate from any resident pets.
Can I bring a friend and we take out two dogs together?
Possibly. If we have two dogs that know each other well at the shelter who we think would have a great time on a Getaway together, we can absolutely do that. It depends on what dogs we have available at any given time. We won’t send two dogs who are strangers out together, but you can still bring a friend and both shower one dog with attention if we don’t have a pair.
Can this dog meet my pets at home?
We ask that they do not. We want Dog Day Getaways to allow dogs to have individual time with people and get exposure in the community. While in the shelter we can have dog playdates and meet shelter dogs’ needs for canine companionship, but we cannot spend much time one-on-one with the dogs.
Can I adopt this dog after our getaway?
YES! Please see a Michigan Humane team member upon your return to learn more about adoption.
What if I have other questions?
A Michigan Humane staff member will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have to make your Dog Day Getaway a success.