Give An Indianapolis Shelter Pet 'Freedom For A Day'

From Indianapolis Animal Care Services: We are excited to announce the launch of our “Freedom for a Day” Program!

This program is designed to allow dogs who have spent more than 30 days with us the opportunity to get out of the shelter environment. As warmer weather approaches, IACS has become overwhelmingly full. Right now, we have 766 animals in our care, with more coming in every day. Programs like this are not only fundamental to enriching the lives of the animals in our care, but also providing them with the opportunity for a second chance.

Over the past few months, IACS has successfully piloted this program with our group of volunteers, and now we are opening it up to the public. Recently, one of our long-term residents, Charlene, spent a day out before she was adopted. Here is what our volunteer had to say about Charlene's day out, “It was cold, so we spent a lot of time in the house. Charlene did great in the car, loves to play, loves to cuddle, and completely owned a treat puzzle! Definitely a no on kids, but other than that, perfect dog.” Shortly after Charlene’s Day Out with a volunteer, she was adopted.

Dogs who are stressed in the kennel tend to have a more difficult time finding an adopter, because they are either depressed or frustrated, and in turn, do not show a positive kennel presence. Giving these dogs a chance to get out, will not only help relieve and reduce kennel stress, it will also allow a potential adopter to see how the dog acts outside of the shelter environment.

In addition to reducing a dog’s stress, the dog will also have an opportunity to potentially find an adopter during their day out with their Freedom Foster! We welcome our Freedom Fosters to take pictures and share the dogs’ story on social media to help them find a forever home!

To learn more about this program, stop by the shelter during our adoption hours!