Adoptable dogs at SPCA Florida in Lakeland, Florida are hoping to go on a Doggie Date or Sleepover with you!
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Adoptable dogs at SPCA Florida in Lakeland are
hoping to go on a Doggie Date with you!
Take one of our dogs on a date for a few hours!​​
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This fun opportunity is perfect for those wanting to see what
it’s like to have a dog, those who can’t have a pet of their own,
or just want someone to hang out with.
The Doggie Dates also allow the dogs to interact with
spaces outside of the adoption center, help relieve stress,
and give them more exposure to potential adopters.
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The cost for a Doggie Dates is only $10. These funds go to purchasing items to provide enrichment for the dogs while they are in their kennels.
Where will you go with your Doggie Date?
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Where will you go with your Doggie Date?
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We will provide a sheet with ideas, including:
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Visiting a local park (no dog parks)
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Walking around Lake Hollingsworth
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Downtown Lakeland window shopping
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Visiting Starbucks for a Puppuccino
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Going to Benson’s Canine Cookies for a free treat
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Netflix at your place (if your home doesn't have dogs/cats)
The possibilities are endless!
Each dog comes with everything you need for your date, including information about the dog, a sheet with suggestions on what to do, a harness and martingale collar, and a bowl for water.
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For the safety of the dogs and you, interaction with other animals is not allowed on Doggie Dates. This includes dog parks, meeting other pets of your family at home, or travel outside a reasonable distance. If you're interested in adopting but have a dog at home, please set up a meet and greet prior to adopting. Thank you for understanding!
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Visit the adoption center any time after 11am and ask about a Doggie Date. Dogs will need to be returned to the shelter by 4pm, so the earlier you arrive, the more hours you can share with one of our amazing pooches. Our canine team will work with you to find you a pup that is suitable for your date.
If you have any questions, please call the Adoption Center at 863-577-4616 or email rentadog@spcaflorida.org."
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Doggy Overnight Program: Test Drive a New Canine Companion!
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Have you ever done a test drive a new car before making a commitment? Well, now you can do the same with a new furry friend! Introducing our Doggy Overnight Program, where you can take a shelter dog home for a night or two and see if they're the perfect match for you and your family.
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Why Participate?
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For You: Get a genuine sense of what it’s like to have a dog in your home. Experience their personality, habits, and how well they fit into your lifestyle before making a long-term commitment.
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For the Dogs: Enjoy a break from the shelter environment, gain exposure to home life, and demonstrate their adaptability and potential to be a cherished family member.
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For Everyone: Help our shelter dogs find their forever homes by providing valuable insights into their behavior and needs in a home setting.
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How Do You Participate?
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Visit the adoption center any time after 11am and ask about taking a dog on a date.
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Dogs need to be back to the shelter by 4pm on the weekend and by 4:30 Mon.-Fri., so the earlier you arrive, the more
hours you can share with one of our amazing pooches. Our canine team will work with you to find you a pup that is suitable
for your date.
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If you have any questions, please call the Adoption Center at 863-577-4616 or email rentadog@spcaflorida.org."
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Benefits of the Program:
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Trial Run: Experience first-hand what it’s like to care for a dog and see if they are the right fit for your lifestyle.
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Comfort for the Dog: Shelters can be stressful environments. A short stay in a home helps reduce their anxiety and gives them a taste of a real family environment.
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Informed Decision: Make a more informed choice about adopting, knowing exactly how the dog fits into your home life.
Ready to test drive a new canine companion? Email us at Rentadog@spcaflorida.org, call us at 863-646-7722, or just stop by and give a shelter dog a chance to shine in a home setting. It’s the perfect way to find out if your new best friend is just a sleepover away!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is there a fee? There is a $10 rental fee that is used to cover our staff time and expenses for the program. We would also love it if you provide photos and/or videos of your adventures.
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How are you ensuring the dogs’ safety? We are vetting folks, in the same manner, we would a foster family who usually have multiple SPCA Florida animals for weeks on end. Safety is our #1 priority for all of our animals.
How long can I keep my Doggie Date? For as little as one hour up to four hours for a doggie date or overnight for a sleepover.
Where do I pick up my Doggie Date? Please pick up your doggie date at the Adoption Center.
What can I expect when I arrive? When picking up your friend, the Adoption Center staff will go over safety, restrictions, and other necessary information for both you and the pup to have a safe, healthy day. You will complete and sign a waiver. Each dog will come with a bag that tells you about the dog, a sheet with suggestions on what to do, a harness and martingale collar, and a bowl for water.
For more information or questions, please contact us at: Rentadog@spcaflorida.org
Made possible by a grant from Maddie's Fund®
#ThanksToMaddie
Ready to pick out your Doggie Date?
Here are our dogs available for Doggie Dates!