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, Florida 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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There is a $10 rental fee for the doggy dates. 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, interactions with other animals are not allowed on Doggie Dates, including dog parks and taking them home to meet your dog or cat. 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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If you have any questions, please call the Adoption Center at 863-577-4616 or email rentadog@spcaflorida.org
How do you participate? It's simple! Show up to the Adoption Center between 11am & 3pm and let the Adoptions team know you are interested in taking a dog on a date. One of our Canine Team members will work with you to find you the perfect "date" candidate!
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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 It Works:
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Show Up: Just stop by the shelter, fill out our adoption survey, and let us know that you’re interested in the Overnight program.
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Meet & Greet: We’ll match you with a dog you'd like to meet as your potential new pal. We'll provide all the essentials, including a blanket, food, leash, and a few toys to ensure a smooth transition. If you need a crate or kennel, we can provide those as well.
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Overnight Stay: Take the dog home for a night or two. This is your chance to see how they adapt to your living space, interact with your family, and fit into your daily routine.
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Feedback: After your overnight adventure, we’ll check in to hear about your experience. Your insights help us understand the dog’s behavior and compatibility.
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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!