Doggy Day Out Volunteer Application

Doggy Day Out Volunteer Application

LASPCA's Doggy Day Out program aims to connect community members with dogs needing a shelter break. This is a unique program that allows people who might not be able to have a pet to enjoy the benefits of pet ownership while doing something great for a shelter animal. LASPCA staff will pair you with a friendly dog needing some time out of the shelter. 

Pick Up and Drop Off Locations:

1. LASPCA Mardi Gras Campus (1700 Mardi Gras Blvd, NOLA 70114)
2. LASPCA Plaquemines Campus (455 F Edward Hebert Blvd, Belle Chasse, LA 70037)

What to expect:

After submitting your application, you can sign up for a Doggy Day Out slot through your MyImpact portal. Pre-registration is required at this time - we will not be able to accommodate walk-ins. We offer 10 slots per day at our Mardi Gras Campus and 5 slots at our Plaquemines Parish Campus. 

Before your scheduled appointment, LASPCA staff will review your questionnaire responses and select a dog that best matches your lifestyle. Please note that you will be assigned a dog that will benefit the most from a shelter break. Most dogs in this program are 1-3 years old and over 35lbs. 

Upon Arrival: A member of our team will meet you at the main entrance, provide you with supplies, and help you load one of our adoptable dogs into your vehicle.

What to Wear: Closed-toe shoes are required for all volunteers. Please wear comfortable clothing that you do not mind getting a little dirty with dog hair/slobber.

Upon Return: A member of our team will meet you at the main entrance to collect supplies and bring the dog back. Before you leave, a member of our team will also ask you to complete a short "Report Card" for the dog.

AS A PARTICIPANT, YOU MUST AGREE TO

• Have the dog under YOUR supervision at all times

• Never leave children unattended with any dog

• Never allow a child under eighteen to hold the leash or be in physical control of the dog

• Inform the LASPCA if the dog bites anyone (including you) right away 

• Maintain a twenty foot distance from other dogs while walking or in public – no dog to dog introductions

• Keep the dog on leash unless confined in your home/back yard

• Not take the dog to off-leash dog areas, dog parks, or do dog introductions while on your trip

• Pick up and return the dog at the agreed upon times

• Transport the dog in a safe manner by either being in a crate or safely restrained in a back seat

• Keep the dog offsite (i.e. do not walk it around LASPCA property or take into our dog parks)

• Report any behavioral or medical concerns to the LASPCA

• Keep the dog safe by providing adequate rest, shade, shelter, and water

• Utilize only positive reinforcement training (do not verbally or physically punish the dog)

• Have a cell phone with you at all times that can be used to contact you

• Present the dog in a positive way to potential adopters and members of the community

By selecting the checkbox labeled "I have read and agree to Doggy Day Out policies," I indicate that I have read, understand, and agree with the above outlined expectations.