Whether it is one hour or three, the Camden County Animal Shelter is giving both county residents and shelter dogs the opportunity to smile with their new initiative.
The Sun
By ALISON LOWERY
A few hours can make all of the difference in the eyes of a dog. Whether it is one hour or three, the Camden County Animal Shelter is giving both county residents and shelter dogs the opportunity to smile with its new Rent-A-Dog program.
Implemented just a few weeks ago, Rent-A-Dog allows Camden County residents who may not be able to own a dog or are interested in adopting one a chance to bond with shelter animals. For the first time ever, people are able to take designated Camden County animal shelter dogs out and walk them or spend time with their new furry friend outside of the shelter environment, enriching the lives of the residents and enhancing the dog’s quality of life.
Stratford resident John Dutton made the drive to the shelter last Tuesday to participate in the program. Dutton, who heard about the program from a friend, jumped on the chance to help by taking Brooklyn, one of the shelter dogs, on a walk last week.
“Dogs need company,” Dutton said.
Although Dutton, 31, is a renter, which prohibits him from adopting a dog, he says he has always wanted one of his own and enjoys being able to bond with the dogs at the shelter. Dutton said he hopes this program will provide a more enjoyable experience for the animals, as well as those participating.
“I can’t believe this is the first time that something like this has popped up … at least that I know of,” Dutton said. “I would love to see it happen more regularly.”
Freeholder Jonathan Young, liaison to the shelter, weighed in with his thoughts, saying the shelter offers many lovable animals that are well taken care of and up-to-date on vaccines. Participating in Rent-A-Dog will make a difference for more than just the animals.
“It helps the shelter out, the dog out, and possibly help themselves out for a little companionship,” Young said.
Echoing Young’s sentiments, Shelter Operations Manager Mike Bricker explained how the program blossomed into existence. Bricker helped initiate the program in collaboration with colleagues after attending a conference a few months ago in Austin, Texas. Bricker was excited to use some of his ideas to develop a policy that would integrate seamlessly with the shelter, and, after a few months of planning, Bricker and his colleagues figured out a way.
Those interested in participating go through a process that includes selecting an animal with a Rent-A-Dog tag and moving into a “get acquainted” room, according to Bricker. The next steps include a vetting process where contact information is shared and a questionnaire filled out, followed by some helpful tips on how to handle the dog outside of the shelter. The shelter will also suggest some areas to take their new pal if needed. After the steps are complete, for one to three hours, both the walker and animal will enjoy some time away from the shelter.
“Foster care, I believe, is the way of the future for shelters,” Bricker said. “Any time you can get the animals out of the shelter, we are really going to see who the dog is.”
Bricker explained shelters can be stressful for a dog, despite how well-kept the shelter is, and by removing them from this high-pressure space, their personalities shine through. It also can give the shelter more in-depth information on the dog to those wanting to adopt.
Those wanting to participate in the program must be at least 18 years old with valid a drivers license. A questionnaire must be completed, and a signature is required on a foster care agreement. Those wanting to take part will also complete a dog handling session with trained staff and volunteers.
Although Camden County members are encouraged to participate, members from surrounding counties can as well.
For more details about the Rent-A-Dog program and to learn how to sign up, visit www.ccasnj.org.
