Doggy Daycation Program

Welcome to the Irvine Animal Care Center’s Doggy Daycation Program!

 

The Irvine Animal Care Center has created a program to lower our dogs’ stress levels and allow them to experience a better quality of life. It is also an excellent opportunity to learn how the dog 

behaves outside the shelter environment while gathering a variety of pictures and stories to share with potential adopters, helping them envision that dog in their lives. The Doggy Daycation program is open to all volunteers, regardless of your regular role. Staff choose the dogs eligible for Daycations.

The dogs chosen are usually ones that have been at the center a while, and are teens or adults. Staff will match a dog to the Daycationer, taking into consideration the skill and ​comfort level of the volunteer and the known behaviors of the dog. Staff will also take into consideration planned activities — some dogs will prefer a relaxed hang-out session, and some will prefer an active outing. So, if you want a cuddle companion that day, you won’t be forced to go on a hike.

Our Doggy Daycation program is based on popular programs at progressive shelters such as Pasadena Humane Society, Pima County Animal Care Center, and Front Street Animal Shelter. Research on stress levels in shelter dogs found that dogs given short, offsite breaks showed significant decreases in stress hormones. The Doggy Daycation schedule is very flexible and allows you to sign up as you’re available. You may do it one time, or you may decide to be a daily Daycationer — it’s up to you. Either way, the outings provide an enriching experience for the dogs.

Next Steps:

  1. Thoroughly review the Doggy Daycation Behavior Guide.
  2. Watch this video about dog body language.
  3. Reach out to Behavior@cityofirvine.org with questions or for clarification about either of the above and to schedule your Daycation.

Rules to remember:

  • Dog must always remain on leash at all times.
  • Stay within about a 30-minute drive of the center. 
  • No dog parks / beaches. 
  • No introductions to other animals.  
  • Do not take to a vet unless approved by IACC staff. 
  • Avoid crowded / high-stress areas (e.x., Spectrum Center, restaurants with patio seating, Fashion Island, etc.).
  • Keep your mobile phone with you and make sure it is fully charged.
  • You must fill out a report card when returning the dog.

Suggested activities:

  • Walks around quiet places. (Examples: Woodbridge Lake, O’Neil Regional Park, your neighborhood, etc.) 
  • Hanging out at your home. (Keep IACC dog away from any animals in the home.)
  • Hanging out at your dog-friendly workplace, as long as the dog can be kept separate from all other pets.
  • Picnic at a quiet park. 
  • Doggy photo shoot! The center having pictures or videos of the dog enjoying their Daycation will show off their personality outside of the shelter and help attract potential adopters.