One day out of the shelter can make an incredible difference for shelter dogs. 

The Nebraska Humane Society offers a special program to the public called Daycations, which allows members of the community to volunteer and take a dog out of the shelter for the day. The purpose of the program is to give dogs a break from the shelter environment, where many of them have been for months or years. Daycations provide an opportunity to reduce stress for dogs as well as the chance to meet a future companion. 

According to the Nebraska Humane Society’s website, Daycations allow dogs to gain exposure to outdoor environments such as car rides, walks around the park and the chance to interact with new people. Volunteers are encouraged to provide feedback on their experiences with the dogs, which can help improve adoption matches. 

The Daycations program is open to individuals 18 and older, who are required to complete a short orientation. The shelter dogs available for Daycations are those that would benefit from human interaction and time spent outside. 

Julia Schwartz, a junior in the College of Arts and Sciences, often volunteers at the Nebraska Humane Society and spends her free time participating in the Daycations program. 

“It was honestly really easy,” Schwartz said. “My usual routine is to take the dog to get a pup cup from Starbucks, go on a walk, and then back to my house to rest.” 

Students at Creighton University may feel too overwhelmed with school and work to help animals in the shelter. The program offers an opportunity for volunteers to spend time with the dogs without having to commit to becoming an owner. 

For volunteers like Schwartz, the experience leaves a lasting impact.  

“Even one day can make a difference,” Schwartz said. 

The Daycations program raises awareness about the animals and encourages those interested to participate. 

More information about the Nebraska Humane Society Daycations program can be found at nehumanesociety.org.