We do our best at the shelter to enrich the lives of our animals. Because of limited staff and the large number of animals in our care, it is difficult for us to give our animals all the enrichment they need! So, we rely a lot on volunteers to provide our animals with love and exercise. The Weekend Warrior (W.W.) program offers our residents a getaway from the shelter, even if it’s just for a few days.
And it's not just exclusive to the weekends; pick a doggo up any Tuesday-Saturday!
The program has two main goals:
REDUCING KENNEL STRESS
A trip out of the kennel improves mental health by curbing the development of bad kennel habits like: excessive barking, reactivity towards dogs and people, and depression. Physical health is also improved by allowing the dog to get out and exercise. The reduction of kennel stress creates a dog that behaves better in a kennel. Good kennel behavior increases the dog’s adoptability.
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NETWORKING
The more people that see our animals the better! You are encouraged to bring your warrior out to public places that allow dogs so that they can be viewed by more people and gain more interest. Be sure to mention the dog is available for adoption at Shelby Humane! Who knows, maybe they will follow you back to the shelter to do some adoption paperwork!
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Not all shelter dogs are able to enroll in our WW program. WW dogs must be:
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Spayed/Neutered
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Up to date on Rabies vaccination
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Healthy
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What do I do with my Weekend Warrior?
We encourage you to take your dog out to as many public places as possible
to network and socialize, but of course, you do not have to go out and about
with your warrior. Sometimes a good snuggle on the couch at your home is
all they need! Just make sure to take some great pictures of your warrior
and share on your social media!
We will provide: a collar, harness, leash, food, crate (if needed), and dog's profile sheet!
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How to Become a Weekend Warrior
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Choose a Weekend Warrior from the eligible candidates below.
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Complete the following Weekend Warrior Contract* along with a copy of your driver's license and send to volunteer@shelbyhumane.org. (*must be at least 19 years of age to sign a contract in Alabama)
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Book an appointment for when you’d like to pick up your Weekend Warrior below!
(Weekend Warriors can range from 1 night to 1 week max! We will schedule a drop-off time at pick-up.)