Dog Walking Program

Please read through the following before signing up…

We ask all potential dog-walking volunteers acknowledge that shelter dogs are a “different breed.”

They come to Pound Buddies with unknown backgrounds, dispositions, experiences, and habits. Some dogs adjust well to the chaos and noise of the shelter environment and others experience incredible stress.

Pound Buddies’ staff members work diligently to determine and understand the most beneficial course of action for every dog, and this includes their daily walking routine.

The majority of shelter dogs are extremely excited to vacate their kennels and go for walks with staff members or volunteers. They might exhibit pent up energy tendencies, which may include jumping and leash pulling. This does not apply to all shelter dogs, but for the welfare and safety of every shelter dog and every valuable volunteer, it is imperative Pound Buddies’ adheres to the following criteria when considering dog-walker applications and requests.

We are extremely grateful for our dog walking volunteers and our primary goal is a fun and safe experience for everyone. 

Some things to note…

  • Dog walkers must be physically capable of walking dogs independently, without assistance, and be able to thoroughly acknowledge and understand staff directives.

  • Staff members will determine appropriate matches between dogs and volunteers.

  • Pound Buddies reserves the right to refuse a volunteer access to a dog if the situation is deemed unsafe for either the volunteer or the dog.

  • Volunteer dog walkers must be at least 18 years of age. Please do not bring others under the age of 18 to assist unless approved by shelter staff members.

  • Be sure to wear weather appropriate clothing and safe, comfortable walking shoes. 

  • Please do not bring treats as often shelter dogs experience stomach upset with changes in diets.

  • Physical discipline of any dog for any reason is unacceptable. 

If you are 18 years of age or older,
come walk dogs with us!

Simply show up, on time, and become a walking buddy for our shelter pups!

Seven days a week, Pound Buddies needs volunteers to help walk our shelter dogs.
The hours are 8:30 am to 10:30 am & 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

Volunteer walkers MUST be 18 years of age and walking times begin promptly.
If you have not walked dogs at Pound Buddies before, please come 10 minutes
prior to the beginning of your shift to complete a release form.

We strive to start all shifts promptly and to keep the dogs and staff on schedule,
we apologize that we cannot accommodate late arrivals.

Just a Reminder

What To Wear

Make sure you wear weather-appropriate clothing.

Wear Your Comfy Shoes

You will be doing a lot of walking. Make sure to wear comfortable, athletic shoes. No sandals or open toe shoes, please.

18 Years of Age or Older

Volunteer walkers must be
18 years of age or older.

No Treats

Please do not bring in treats. Some of our dogs have sensitive stomachs or may be on a restricted diet.

Fall in Love

Last but not least, prepare yourself to fall in love with some of the most adorable dogs you will ever meet!

Start Today!!

First, choose a time, 8:30a or 5p. Then after you’ve signed the release form and a brief orientation, our staff will get you started!