The Ontario SPCA launches Dog’s Day Out program to help shelter dogs find loving homes

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Stouffville, ON (April 27, 2026) – The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is launching Dog’s Day Out, a new pilot program giving shelter dogs the chance to spend time outside the animal centre while community members enjoy a rewarding day with an adoptable dog. 

Modeled after similar programs in the United States, and supported by VCA Charities, Dog’s Day Out will operate as a pilot at the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society York Region Animal Centre. Approved participants can take an adoptable dog out for the day. Whether it’s a walk, a visit to dog-friendly spaces, or simply relaxing at home, these outings provide enrichment and allow dogs to show their personalities beyond the kennel. 

“Dog’s Day Out gives dogs a break from the shelter environment and gives the community a simple, meaningful way to help,” says Danielle Johnson, Provincial Operations Manager – GTA, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “Even a few hours outside the animal centre can reduce stress, provide valuable behavioural insights, and help dogs connect with potential adopters.” 

Time spent outside the shelter provides valuable mental stimulation, reduces stress, and gives dogs the opportunity to show their true personalities. These outings can spark adoption interest and may even help shorten their stay while they wait for a loving home. 

Participants complete an application and are carefully matched with a dog suited to their experience and lifestyle. The Ontario SPCA provides all necessary supplies, along with guidance and support, to help ensure a safe and positive experience. Participants are encouraged to share photos and stories from their outing to help showcase adoptable dogs to the community. 

“You don’t need a long-term commitment to make a big impact,” adds Johnson. “Sometimes just one afternoon can make a meaningful difference in helping a dog find a loving home.” 

To learn more or apply to participate in the Dog’s Day Out program, visit: ontariospca.ca/dogs-day-out 

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Media Contact 

Lori MacLeod  
Community Outreach Coordinator, 
Ontario SPCA and Humane Society York Region Animal Centre 
905-505-0941 
[email protected] 

About the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society   

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is a registered charity that has been changing the lives of animals for over 150 years. The Society provides care, comfort and compassion to animals in need in communities across Ontario. It values all animals and advocates to treat them with respect and kindness. The Society strives to keep pets and families together and does so through a variety of community support services, such as sheltering and adoptions, including emergency sheltering, feral cat management programs, animal transfers, food distribution, humane education, animal advocacy, and spay/neuter services.  

The Ontario SPCA does not receive annual government funding and relies on donations to provide programs and services to help animals in need. To learn more, or to donate, visit ontariospca.ca. Charitable Business # 88969-1044-RR0002.  

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society York Region Animal Centre sits on the traditional territory of the Wendat, the Anishinabek Nation, the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, the Mississaugas of Scugog, Hiawatha and Alderville First Nations and the Métis Nation. This territory was the subject of the Dish With One Spoon Wampum Belt Covenant, an agreement between the Iroquois Confederacy and the Ojibwe and allied nations to peaceably share and care for the resources around the Great Lakes. The treaties that were signed for this particular parcel of land are collectively referred to as the Williams Treaties of 1923.