One local animal shelter has launched a new program letting you spend the day with their dogs.
Speaking with Finger Lakes News Radio, Finger Lakes SPCA of CNY Executive Director Nick Lapresi said the shelter’s Ex-Paw-Dition program allows community members to come to the Auburn-based shelter and take a dog with them as a companion for the day.
“We want people to come in; we want people to take our dogs out for a fun-filled day, whether that be enjoying our beautiful nature parks or taking them to get some ice cream, taking them to Lowes to go shopping, or even taking them home and hanging out in your backyard for the day,” said Lapresi
He added that the program is aimed at promoting the animals’ wellbeing while also getting them out into the community.
“We do everything we possibly can to keep [the dogs] comfortable while they’re here; however we need our community’s help to best support these dogs.,” said Lapresi. “Even a few hours out of the shelter has proven to dramatically affect the dogs that are here; it decreases their stress levels and helps them get out and be seen by people who may not know that we’re here and are looking for a great wonderful dog.”
While the SPCA’s ultimate goal is adoption, the Ex-Paw-Dition program allows those who love animals but can’t adopt or volunteer at the shelter to spend time with the dogs.
There are a few requirements to participate in the program. Those looking to take a dog for the day need to be 18 or older and possess a valid driver’s license. Dogs need to stay in their shelter-provided harnesses and the shelter asks the animals not to be taken to a dog park. Dogs also need to be returned at least 15 minutes before the shelter closes for the day.
You can view the shelter’s dogs at flspcacny.org.
The shelter is also raising funds to enhance its surgical capabilities ahead of the planned upgrades to its 41 York St location. Donations can also be made online.
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