Borrowed Buddies Program

Introducing the Borrowed Buddies Program!

This initiative pairs community members with shelter dogs for regular outings and field trips, offering these dogs a much-needed break from the shelter environment.

Whether it's a hike, a shopping spree at a pet-friendly store, or a relaxing lunch on a pet-friendly patio, these outings are designed to improve the dogs' quality of life and mental health.

smiling woman with grey hair offering a treat to a chocolate labrador wearing a leather collar.

What is the Borrowed Buddies Program?

The Borrowed Buddies program is an extension of our Foster Care Program, designed for those who may not be able to welcome a dog into their home full-time but still want to make a positive impact.

By participating, you help reduce kennel stress, provide enrichment, and increase the visibility of our shelter dogs, which is crucial for their adoption prospects.

Commitment

Borrowed Buddies must commit to visiting their buddy at least once a week.

This consistency is vital for building a trusting relationship and providing the dogs with a sense of stability and comfort.

Benefits of the Program

Reduced Kennel Stress

Regular outings help alleviate the stress and anxiety that dogs often experience in a shelter setting.

Enrichment

The variety of activities provides mental and physical stimulation, contributing to the overall well-being of the dogs.

Increased Visibility

Taking dogs out into the community helps them get noticed by potential adopters. Plus, photos and stories from these outings make for great marketing material.

Behavioural Insights

The Saskatoon SPCA will provide all necessary supplies and cover medical care costs.

Rules

To ensure the safety and well-being of both the dogs and the volunteers, the following rules must be adhered to:

  • Keep the dog under your supervision at all times. Never leave children unattended with the dog, and do not allow anyone under eighteen to control the leash.

  • Report any behaviour or medical issues to the shelter immediately. If a dog bites anyone, it must be reported to the coordinator without delay.

  • Maintain a twenty-foot distance from other dogs and avoid dog-to-dog introductions.

  • Keep the dog on a leash unless in a confined area like your home or backyard. Do not take the dog to off-leash areas or engage in dog introductions.

  • Pick up and return the dog at the agreed times. The schedule is Tuesday-Saturday (9am-11pm pick up, return by 12pm), and Monday (9am-11pm pick up, return by 4pm). We are open seven days a week but closed on all statutory holidays.

  • Ensure the dog is safely transported in a crate or securely restrained in the backseat of your vehicle.

  • Do not walk the dog around the Saskatoon SPCA property or use our dog parks.

  • Provide adequate rest, shade, shelter, and water. Use only positive reinforcement training methods. Do not use pinch collars, retractable leashes, choke chains, or shock collars.Item description

  • Do not tether your buddy to fences, yards, or any other objects.

  • Have a cell phone with you at all times for contact purposes.

  • Present the dog positively to potential adopters and the public. Send us photos of your adventures!

  • Commit to visiting your Borrowed Buddy at least once a week.

grey and white husky dog wearing a black harness standing in a river and drinking.

Additional Information

Please note, many of the dogs who are participants are larger, energetic, and are typically longer-term residents of the shelter.

Small dogs are not typically at the shelter long enough to participate. Some dogs are not eligible for the program but may be available for adoption.

We provide a “Buddy Bag” for your outing. Buddy bags contain items such as treats, poop bags, Doggy Business Cards, and a water dish.

All dogs will be wearing a collar or a harness. You may ask for additional supplies such as blankets, seat belt attachments, or crates at pick up.

Program Schedule

Day Pick Up Drop Off
Mondays 9:15am - 12pm By 4pm
Tuesdays - Sundays 9:15am - 11am By 12pm

Please Note:

This program is currently full! Please check back for updates.

How to Apply

If you understand and can adhere to these guidelines, we encourage you to apply to be a Borrowed Buddy.

If you have further questions, please reach out to the volunteer coordinator at fostercare@saskatoonspca.com.

Thank you for making the Borrowed Buddies a success! The program is currently full, but look for updates here and on social media.