Cinnabon is a cinnamon-colored pit bull, all muscle with a tongue that dangles from a smile stretching the limits of her wide jawbones.
Okapi, a solid black German shepherd, has gigantic puppy paws that, at 4 years old, she has yet to grow into.
Tom is a senior—an 8-year-old mix of rottweiler, shepherd, perhaps a little pit bull.
All three dogs are gentle, calm and curious. They are ideal candidates to get out of the county animal shelter and walk a park trail, lounge on shaded grass, sneak favors on a restaurant patio—even for just one day.
Last year, the county’s Bradshaw Animal Shelter launched Barks & Recreation, a program that gives shelter pups a daylong break from kennels, a respite from the stress of living behind bars.
“Barks & Recreation is not just about giving dogs a break from the shelter—it’s about enriching their lives and preparing them for a forever home,” Shelter Director Annette Bedsworth says.
Field trips help dogs develop social skills and meet potential adopters. “Plus, it’s a great way for the public to enjoy the company of a loving dog without a long-term commitment,” Bedsworth adds.
Appointments to pick up a dog are seven days a week, every 30 minutes from 9–11 a.m. Up to five dogs get outings each day.
To ensure a good dog-to-person fit, questions include preferred size and breed. Shelter staff pre-select well-mannered canines who are less likely to be adopted and have been at the shelter for long stretches. Shepherds, huskies and pit bulls dominate.
“Small dogs are eligible for the program but are adopted quickly,” Bedsworth says. “Medium and large dogs, who are often overlooked and stay in our care longer, benefit the most.”
Matches are made based on the canine’s energy level and the person’s handling experience. Will the day’s activities be couch cuddling at home with a movie, short strolls and people watching, or long hikes and maybe some swimming?
Cinnabon’s day began with a 3-mile trek around Ancil Hoffman Park, followed by lunch at La Bou in Carmichael and squirrel surveillance at William B. Pond Recreation Area.
Okapi crossed Tower Bridge to walk along the West Sacramento waterfront, toured Old Sac, took treats on Selland’s patio on H Street and strolled around McKinley Park.
Tom led the way along the American River Parkway near Nimbus Dam, made friends at Jack’s Urban Eats in Gold River and wandered the Old Fair Oaks shopping district.
Bradshaw provides a backpack with dog treats, collapsible water bowl, poop bags and emergency contact information.
Dog parks and interactions with other animals are off limits, but human encounters offer hope for adoption. Bedsworth says, “Barks & Recreation showcases their wonderful personalities to potential adopters one adventure at a time.”
Make an appointment to take a dog out at animalcare.saccounty.gov, under “About.”
Cathryn Rakich can be reached at crakich@surewest.net. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram: @insidesacramento.
