These shelters want you to 'date a dog' this Valentine's Day

In partnership with Chewy, animal shelters across the country want to set you up on a date with your perfect match during “Dogs’ Date Out.”

Singles, couples, friends, families, and dog lovers of all kinds are encouraged to spend their Valentine’s Day by taking a local shelter pup out on a date.

A blond woman in a pink cardigan sits outside next to a tan pitbull wearing a red bandana that reads "adopt me." The woman is holding dog toys that are in the shape of roses. — Yamaha is a dog "date" available at Broward County Animal Care in Florida. Photo courtesy of Chewy

Those who participate will receive a Chewy Date Kit, complete with all the necessities for a successful day on the town, including toys, treats, and even poop bags.

Shelters hope this playful “rent-a-dog” approach will help people fall in love with their ideal companion, or even inspire folks to foster a dog before committing to adoption.

Whether the date consists of a leisurely stroll, a field trip to the pet store, a more high-energy hike, or an afternoon at a dog-friendly brewery, humans and canines alike will get the time to form an extra-special bond on the day of love.

A woman in a pink cardigan, white shirt, and jeans, walks a pit bull through a park — Photo courtesy of Chewy

Interested participants can talk to the shelter staff to learn what interests or fears their dog “date” has before rushing into snuggles or planning a big adventure.

This activity provides a much-needed kennel break for dogs in shelters and gives them the space, opportunity, and safety to relax and enjoy a day “meant to be filled with love,” a blog post from Chewy states.

“Shelter animals have so much love to give,” Diane Pelkey, vice president of communications and PR at Chewy, told Good Good Good.

“Dogs’ Date Out is the perfect way to showcase their personalities beyond the shelter.”

A gray and white pit bull wears a red bandana that reads "adopt me" — Ginger, another available dog "date" at Broward County Animal Care in Florida. Photo courtesy of Chewy

Although the shelters would love for these Valentine’s dates to turn into something a little more committed, the joy people find in this experience may also be a catalyst to foster a temporary furry friend, donate to their local animal shelter, or simply make a difference in the lives of animals.

Pelkey added: “We are passionate about giving deserving adoptable pets more opportunities to find loving homes and connect with people looking for a companion.”

Those interested in a fling with a furry friend can find participating shelters below:

Arizona

Arkansas