Category Archives: Doggie Day Out

2026, Doggie Day Out, fostering, group dog play, Volunteer

Making Friends One Dog Walk at a Time

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
Amy volunteering at an adoption event.
10
Sep

In May, 2021 my husband and I decided to sell our home of 32 years in Herndon, Virginia and our property on the Northern Neck of Virginia and move to Aiken, South Carolina to live in the state where my husband grew up. In a fast and furious year, we sold both places and moved into our home in Aiken in May, 2022.

I was a little shell shocked but ready to meet new people and make new friends. For the first several months I was getting to know Aiken and meeting lots of people but feeling I wasn’t “connecting” and began missing my longtime friendships back in Virginia. As time passed, I had the horrible feeling that we made the wrong choice and even asked my husband if he would consider going back. His answer was a hard “No!” He liked the mild weather, enjoyed playing golf and was falling in love with pickleball.

Amy volunteering at an adoption event.
Amy volunteering at an adoption event.

I began reading the Aiken Standard intently looking for articles about local organizations where I could contribute my time and in October 2023 there was an article that caught my eye. The article was about an organization, FOTAS, desperately looking for people to volunteer to walk dogs at the Aiken County Animal Shelter. I thought to myself, “I can walk a dog and maybe there will be other people there walking dogs. And people who care about animals are really good people.” 

So I signed myself and my husband up for the dog walking training. We began walking dogs which I loved more than I realized. The dogs needed the walks and the social connection as much as I did. And then I began to meet people. A wide range of people. Some older, some younger but all were people that I began to look forward to seeing when I went in to volunteer. And then I began to expand that volunteer experience at the shelter where I felt I could help: Doggie Day Outs, short term Fostering, taking a dog to an event, and Play Group support. 

It has been a life changing three years since I saw that article. I am grateful for all the people I have come to know who share their experience, time, a good laugh and give me new perspectives to consider.  I’ve come to realize that every single person at Aiken County Animal Shelter is a valuable asset. Every member of the staff. Every member and volunteer of FOTAS. Every person who donates. All of us are people who care deeply about the animals who come into the shelter. All of us are working towards improving the lives of each animal and making a better future for them while they are in our care. I hope you’ll consider coming out to volunteer. If you do, I’ll be sure to introduce myself when I meet you on the walking trails. I’m glad we moved to Aiken, South Carolina!

Their Lives Are In Our Hands
by Amy Peterson, FOTAS Volunteer

2026, DOGGIE DATES, Doggie Day Out

Doggy Day Out 

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
Henrietta enjoying the love during her Doggy Day Out
17
Jul

One of my favorite programs at the Aiken County Animal Shelter is our Doggy Day Out program.

I’ll admit I’m a little selfish about it—I simply love spending time with different shelter dogs. Sometimes we head to the park, sometimes we just go for a drive to grab a coffee and a pup cup. Every dog is different, with their own personality, quirks, and favorite adventures. As much as I adore my own dogs, it’s so much fun getting to know another one for a day.

Henrietta enjoying the love during her Doggy Day Out
Henrietta enjoying the love during her Doggy Day Out

The best part? It truly changes their lives.

The shelter is almost always full, and with that comes a lot of noise. Kennel doors clanging, food bowls banging, squeaky toys, barking dogs, meowing kittens…it can feel like a zoo. While some dogs adjust to the constant activity, others become overwhelmed by the stress.

An hour or two away from the shelter can make a tremendous difference. Dogs return more relaxed, happier, and often much more confident. Just as importantly, these outings help us learn things about them that we would never discover inside a kennel. Does the dog enjoy riding in the car? Love children? Ignore cats? Walk nicely on a leash? Those details help us find the perfect home.

The program couldn’t be easier. It’s almost like checking out a library book!

If you’re an Aiken County resident, simply call the shelter at (803) 642-1537, ext. 3, and schedule a Doggy Day Out. We’ll match you with a dog that fits the kind of outing you have in mind.

Want to hike through Hitchcock Woods? We have a dog for that.

Prefer a quiet afternoon on the couch with Netflix? We have a dog for that, too.

Need something fun to do with the kids? Take a shelter dog to the park and make their day.

This week, a wonderful family took adoptable Henrietta out for the day, and everyone had a fantastic time. Even better, we learned so much about her that will help us find her forever home.

Brie enjoying her Doggy Day Out
Brie enjoying her Doggy Day Out

Jennifer Tyler shared:

“We had such an incredible time today with Henrietta as part of the Doggy Day Out program. She is truly a sweet girl and would make a perfect addition to any family. During our time together, she was exceptionally patient and loving with my two young kids, and she got along with our cat without any issues whatsoever. She was also very comfortable around my husband and other men at the park, and I was particularly impressed by how beautifully she walks on a leash.

We would have loved to adopt her ourselves if our current situation allowed for it. If Henrietta is still available next week, we would be delighted to take her out again.”

Another volunteer, Alyssa, recently took adoptable Brie out for a pup cup and a walk around town. The smile on Brie’s face said it all. For a little while, she got to forget she was living in a shelter and simply enjoy being someone’s dog.

You don’t have to adopt to make a difference.

Sometimes, giving a shelter dog just a few hours of fresh air, new smells, belly rubs, and love is exactly what they need. And who knows? You just might fall in love along the way.

Their Lives Are In Our Hands.

By Kathy Cagle, FOTAS Programs Coordinator

2026, Doggie Day Out, Uncategorized, Volunteer

Thomas’s Doggy Day Out 

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
Thomas on his Doggie Day Out
12
Jun

When Thomas left the shelter for his Doggy Day Out, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect.

The first person he met that morning was my adopted adult son, Matt. Matt has intellectual disabilities and has always struggled a little with getting close to dogs. Many dogs make him nervous, and he is often unsure how to interact with them.

But Thomas seemed to know something we didn’t.

From the moment they met, Thomas was drawn to Matt. No matter where Matt stood, Thomas would quietly make his way over to him. He nudged him gently with his nose, leaned against him, and seemed determined to offer affection. There was something incredibly sweet about watching this shelter dog choose the person who needed him most.

When it was time to leave, Thomas faced another challenge. My vehicle sits fairly high off the ground, and he didn’t seem to know how to jump into a car. I lifted his front paws onto the floorboard, and then he carefully worked out the rest for himself, slowly climbing inside.

At first, Thomas settled on the floor behind the front seat. But when Matt sat down in the back seat, Thomas made another choice.

He climbed up onto the seat beside him.

The two sat together as we drove away from the shelter. Thomas wore a dog seat belt for safety and quickly settled into the ride. He stretched out quietly next to Matt, watching the world go by through the windows. Every now and then he would glance toward Matt as if checking to make sure his new friend was still there.

Thomas found his forever home thanks to a Facebook post about his Doggy Day Out!   Maybe you want to take a shelter dog out for an hour or two? Contact us at info@fotasaiken.org.

Our destination was Hitchcock Woods.

The moment Thomas stepped out of the vehicle, his nose went to work. There were so many new scents to explore. Every path held a new adventure. Every breeze carried information he was eager to investigate.

Along the trail, Thomas met hikers and politely greeted them. He spotted a horse and was fascinated by the giant creature. He tried pulling toward it for a closer look, but I reminded him to stay with me. A little later, a squirrel darted across our path. Thomas immediately wanted to give chase, but when I told him, “No, leave it,” he listened and stayed by my side.

For a shelter dog experiencing so many new things, Thomas handled everything remarkably well.
What stood out most wasn’t his curiosity or even his good behavior.

It was his heart.

Again and again throughout the day, Thomas showed us that he longs for connection. Whether it was resting quietly beside Matt in the car, checking in with me on the trail, or greeting strangers with gentle interest, Thomas seemed happiest when he was simply sharing life with people.

Some dogs spend their Doggy Day Out racing from adventure to adventure.

Thomas spent his showing us who he is.

A loyal companion. A gentle soul. A dog who chooses people.

Watching him with Matt was my favorite part of the day. A shelter dog and a young man who are both sometimes misunderstood found comfort in each other’s company without needing words.

Their Lives Are In Our Hands.

by Lisa Gaudet, Animal Adoption Assistant

DOGGIE DATES, Doggie Day Out, Foster, fostering

Doggy Dating vs Human Dating

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
Sweet Rio is available for adoption.
06
Feb

We’ve made it through the holidays—phew! As wonderful as the season is, all the hustle and bustle can be exhausting, and it’s nice when things finally slow down. Then you walk into a store and realize Valentine’s Day has exploded everywhere.

For some, Valentine’s Day is filled with love and excitement. For others, not so much. It can be a lonely and dreaded day for many. But there’s a much better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day—with a shelter dog.

Sweet Madeline is available for adoption.
Sweet Madeline is available for adoption.

“Doggy Dating” is a fun and heartwarming program offered through the Aiken County Animal Shelter. All you have to do is call the shelter and ask to take a dog out for an hour or two. You can visit a local park, stroll downtown for coffee or a treat, or even enjoy a cozy afternoon at home watching Netflix.

Shelter dogs won’t bore you with stories about themselves. They won’t give awkward affection or ask you to split the bill. They simply look at you with love in their eyes and are happy to be by your side. They offer unconditional love and ask for nothing in return.

Why are dogs better than boyfriends or girlfriends? Simply put—less drama. They walk with you, listen without judgment, and never complain. You can eat anywhere you want. Watch anything you want. They’re just happy to be included.

So why haven’t you done this before? The good news is—you can now.

The Doggy Day Out, also known as the Doggy Dating Program, is open to all Aiken County residents. To schedule a date with a shelter pup, call the Aiken County Animal Shelter at (803) 642-1537, ext. 3, and set up a time to pick up your new best friend for the day.

Kathy Cagle, FOTAS Programs Coordinator

Doggie Day Out, Volunteer

Need student service hours? Volunteer at the ACAS

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
To earn service hours, students can go on “dates” with our friendliest shelter dogs, like Sarah.
08
Aug

Back to school came early this year! We will miss seeing children at the shelter volunteering with their parents, but let’s focus on volunteer opportunities for families during this school year.

Many students need service hours for their school, their clubs or to beef up their college applications. How about volunteering at the Aiken County Animal Shelter?

We do ask our volunteers to be 18 years old, but when parents or guardians can volunteer with their kids (12 years or older), it’s awesome! We love seeing families volunteering together at the shelter. It’s as easy as emailing us at info@fotasaiken.org and letting us know you want to come for a volunteer training session.

This summer, we had quite a few mother/daughter teams that came and walked dogs for us. The dogs and cats love seeing young people and it really benefits everyone. Teenagers especially need exercise, time away from phones and social media, and the benefits of caring for homeless pets in our community.

Our Doggie Day Out program is perfect for active families with parents that work. It can be really difficult to find time to help your kids earn service hours. Therefore, we have a program designed to make it easy! Just call the shelter, (803) 642-1537, ext. 3 and set up a time to pick up a dog for an hour after school or on a Saturday morning.

We try and make it as easy as checking out a library book, but way more fun! Students and their families can pick up a friendly dog selected by staff members and take it to the park, downtown or to Starbucks for a pup cup. These field trips give our homeless dogs a well-deserved break from the shelter.

Student Hannah Wildoner makes bracelets and sells them, donating all of her earnings to FOTAS.
Student Hannah Wildoner makes bracelets and sells them, donating all of her earnings to FOTAS.

Students can also think outside the box. This summer, Hannah Wildoner made artwork and bracelets that she sold to friends and community members. She donated her earnings to the shelter to help our pets – so cool!

We encourage students to come up with new ways to help the County Shelter’s animals. Start a club at your school, plan a fundraiser or organize a donation drive. We love partnering with students in these efforts. FOTAS is happy to send a wish list to schools and bring a shelter pet to pick up the items and meet with students.

Lemonade stands, garage sales and social media donation drives are all ways to earn service hours. Post a video of a student with their mission to help pets and collect either financial donations or items from our Wish List. Go to neighbors’ mailboxes and leave copies of what your student is trying to do along with a wish list and a date to leave items by their mailboxes for pick up. Safe and easy!

There are so many ways young people can help our homeless pets. FOTAS and the Aiken County Animal Shelter will help students get started and celebrate their efforts!

Their lives are in our hands.
By Kathy Cagle, FOTAS Programs Coordinator

2024, Dog Ears Reading Program, Doggie Day Out, Foster, SOCIAL MEDIA, Volunteer

A Little One-on-One Time Goes a Long Way

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
Sweet Retriever mix Marigold enjoys hearing a story read by a Gloverville Elementary student.
16
May

The shelter is as always, busy! So many dogs and puppies are coming in and it’s a constant battle to keep up.

The noise level is high from barking, kennel doors closing, metal food bowls clanging, and the constant cleaning.

Recently, at one of our Dog Ears sessions we had one of those “goosebump moments.” Dog Ears is a reading program that we offer once a month to young people who want to read to a shelter dog.

Our last session was with the Gloverville Elementary Beta Club. These students hold a donation drive every year for the shelter. We go to the school to meet the kids and thank them. This is always followed by the group visiting the shelter to read to the dogs.

This particular Saturday was extremely loud and the dogs were very excitable. In all honesty, I was really worried that it was going to be too overwhelming for the students.

Within minutes of the students sitting down and reading, the most amazing thing happened. The kennels went completely quiet. The dogs began laying down, looking at the children and by the time the session was over, almost all were fast asleep. I think all the leaders had tears in our eyes, it was the most special experience.

Watching the peace that came over these poor dogs trapped in kennels, homeless, tired and stressed, was really emotional. These kids gave the dogs a gift. The gift of love and attention.

The shelter has many programs that can give dogs this type of peace.

Each month, FOTAS hosts Dog Ears Reading events. Please email us if your child would like to read to the pets. It is a quick half-hour reading session followed by hands on time and a short lesson about the shelter. Our next session is Saturday, June 15. Space is limited, so please email to reserve your spot (info@fotasaiken.org).

We also offer Doggy Days Out. This can be as simple as calling the shelter and taking a dog to the park for an hour or downtown for an afternoon. Watching a shelter dog decompress in the backseat of your car is pretty rewarding. It’s like a vacation for them to go for a car ride and see/smell new things. When they return, they are happier, more relaxed and more adoptable.

If you would like to come and spend time with pets at the shelter, all you have to do is email us and we will set you up with a training session so you can come and go as you please.

It doesn’t take a lot of time to help a homeless pet. Even just an hour of one-on-one time can be life changing for a shelter dog or cat. If you have no free time and you want to help, please share our posts on Facebook and Instagram. The majority of our adoptions come from social media. All you have to do is share.

Their lives are in our hands.

By Kathy Cagle, FOTAS Programs Coordinator

2024, animal abuse, Doggie Day Out, neglected pets

Doggie dates help shelter pups like Adalyn find loving homes

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
07
Mar

On Saturday, February 24, my son and I were allowed to borrow a dog from the Aiken County Animal Shelter for a couple of hours. It’s a program called Doggie Day Out. We have enough pets at home that we were not looking to adopt, but wanted to give a shelter dog a great experience (who doesn’t like a break from their routine with a fun field trip?). Once we completed and signed a short form, a staff member introduced us to 7-year-old, 40-pound Adalyn. She is a sweet girl who liked us immediately. The feeling was mutual!

We got to the car and she hopped into the backseat with my son, as if she knew she was in for a fun day. My son loves the park, so we headed for Odell Weeks to walk some laps before going to the playground. Adalyn was the best girl! She absolutely LOVED her walk, with her and my son even jogging at times. She was energetic, enthusiastic, and spirited. She enjoyed drinking from the doggie water fountain, too! Everywhere we went, we encountered men, women, and even toddlers who wanted to give her pets and attention. Adalyn was patient and enjoyed it all.

After the park, we went to a coffee shop to get Adalyn a pup cup. At first, she was hesitant about drinking her pup cup but shortly lapped it up.

Adalyn Got Her Forever Valentine!
Adalyn Got Her Forever Valentine!

We then took Adalyn to Petco because we wanted her to return to the shelter with some toys and treats. Her visit there went smoothly. She did want to jump up and check out everything, and was especially interested in the ferrets and cats. But she listened to us when we corrected her, and then was on her best behavior.

We returned her to the shelter after a full two hours out. It was one of the hardest things for us to do. Whoever adopts Adalyn, will be rich in love and luck! She is the sweetest girl with a big smile.

Because we enjoyed spending time with Adalyn so much, we booked another day to take a pup on a field trip. I hate the idea of the dogs waiting for homes being stuck in their kennels, unable to enjoy a fun car ride, walk, hike, pup cup, or human companionship outside of the shelter. Going on a doggie date relieves them of shelter stress and builds their confidence. It’s also a wonderful program to help introduce shelter dogs to people who are interested in finding a companion to add to their home.

Their lives are in our hands.

By Wendy McDaniel, FOTAS Volunteer

Epilogue:
Adalyn was rescued from a home of neglect and brought to the County Animal Shelter on Jan. 30. Scared and confused, she was passed over by prospective adopters for a month. However, just five days after her doggie date with the McDaniels, a woman in Beech Island adopted Adalyn. Today, Adalyn is doing great, living out her golden years with companionship and love.

If you would like to take a County Shelter dog on a date, just stop by 333 Wire Road or call us at (803) 642-1537, ext.3. You can also email info@fotasaiken.org to sign up for a Doggie Day Out.

2023, Adoption, DOGGIE DATES, Doggie Day Out, Volunteer

My Wonderful Date with a Shelter Dog

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
06
Jan

Here’s Minnie from the Aiken County Animal Shelter on our Doggie Day Out recently. Most of her life has been spent having litter after litter, starving for food and love, and being treated like trash.

But this was her day. Time away from the crowded stressful shelter where she’s finally up for adoption — hoping the tall odds against her don’t win over a loving home and happy future.

Because that’s all she wants: to be chosen and loved.

Minnie was perfect on our day together. She has one of those soft mouths that gives face kisses and tenderly takes treats from your hand. She’s gentle and loving with babies, older people, and everyone in between. She also adores dogs – big and small – and can’t wait to greet them.

Overall, the best words for her are happy, affectionate, curious, and easy. Whatever you’re up for, that’s good with her, too.

Minnie rides in the car perfectly and has wonderful manners in public. She loves a trail hike or walk through the park, but she also loves town life. She visited Bravefriend Downtown where she got loving and pumpkin treats, Downtown Dog where she got more loving and more treats, and the local Wendy’s where she enjoyed a hamburger with more enthusiasm than they’ve seen in a while.

What’s a Doggie Day Out and why do them?

Shelter dogs run out of time in more than one way. We’re so crowded now that there are multiple dogs in kennels meant for one. Being public, the shelter can’t turn away new dogs no matter how many come through the door, and no matter how ridiculous the reason is for disowning them.

But shelter dogs waiting for months in these kennels also break from stress. They’re not meant to live like this, and it takes a toll. Even more when they’ve got trauma from being given away by people they loved forever, or their beloved owner dies, or they were bait for dog fighting. The sad stories don’t end.

So, these Doggie Days Out (or overnights or weekend visits) give them a much-needed break, they get more socialization, and we learn more details about them so we can post better stories and match them better with the few adopters who show up.

If you live in Aiken County and you’re interested in a Doggie Day Out, email FOTAS (info@fotasaiken.org) for details. Or just stop by.

And if you’re open to more love in your life, no matter where you live, please consider adopting Minnie. She’s extraordinary and when you consider all she’s been through, her love for people is mind-boggling.

Minnie is 4 years old, 50 pounds, spayed, vaccinated, housetrained, and microchipped. She pulls a little on a leash, but it’ll only take a little training to fix that. Her adoption fee is only $35.

The shelter is located at 333 Wire Rd, Aiken SC. Stop by or email info@fotasaiken.org to schedule a meeting with Minnie.

Please support the shelter any way you can. Their lives are in our hands.

By Martha Anne Tudor, FOTAS Volunteer

2022, Adoption, Doggie Day Out, Volunteer

Doggie daters needed now more than ever at the County Shelter

Posted on by Bob Gordon
02
Jul

When the County shelter is full, as it has been most of this spring and early summer, the stress level for the dogs rises considerably. The adoption floor is louder with barks and howls, and the dogs become amped up, needing to relieve their anxiety by going on more walks, running in the play yard or spending quality quiet time on the couch with a volunteer.

But even these on-site activities don’t allow them to find complete relief from the pressure of living among so many other confused and scared homeless pets. They crave a brief escape. They need to get out of Dodge. See new sites. Meet new people.

How? By going on a date with a County resident.

Krysta Buchholz and her young son took seven-year-old, 60-pound mixed breed Gwyneth out on a date and took selfies and other photos to post on Facebook

Krysta Buchholz with Gwyneth during her Doggie Day Out.

“We had a fun doggie date!” Buchholz said. “She was promised snow cones but Pelican’s was way too busy, so we opted for a nature walk! It was a little difficult getting her in and out of the car, but overall she did well! “

Tiffany Stapleton and her young son, Brooks also enjoyed their separate dates with shelter dogs Scout and Lex.

“I read about FOTAS Doggie Days Out online and thought it would be great for the kids and a way to help out,” Stapleton said. “We took Lex out to Citizens Park and then to Chick-fil-A for lunch.” Early on, the six-year-old Retriever mix, hopped from the back seat to the front seat, excited but unsure of what to do in a car. But by the time they made their return to the shelter, Lex was more relaxed and cozied up to Brooks in the back seat.

“I think the program is very valuable to the dogs and teaches the kids responsibility and patience,” Stapleton added. “It also exposes the dogs to new experiences and social situations, which prepares them for their eventual home.”

The dogs always come back from their Doggie Dates happier and more relaxed. They often go back to their kennels exhausted and ready to get some much-needed sleep.

If you can help by taking a dog on a day out or even a sleepover, stop by the shelter, 333 Wire Road, or call 803.642.1537, option 3. It’s fun, easy and gives the dogs the break they need!

Their lives are in our hands.

– By Bob Gordon, FOTAS Communications Director

2021, Adoption, DOGGIE DATES, Doggie Day Out, SELECTING A PET

Why you should adopt your next dog or cat from the County Shelter

Posted on by Bob Gordon
29
Dec

The Aiken County Animal Shelter takes in more than 4,000 pets a year and these homeless dogs and cats need community members to adopt them and save their lives. But we understand there are other shelters and rescues out there. With so many options, it can be difficult to choose where to get your pet. Here is a short Q&A to help you make your decision.

Why should you consider adopting from the Aiken County Animal Shelter?
1) Because we care. We go the extra mile to make sure your future pet has been tested with people, other animals, and we do our best to learn about their behaviors, whether positive or negative.

This sweet dog is the perfect pet for his new home.


2) We do our best to match the best pet for your individual needs such as:
• What breed do you prefer?
• What pet fits your lifestyle?
• How much time do you have to spend with the pet?
• Do you have any other pets?
• Do you have children?
• Do you live in a home? apartment? farm?

What kinds of things do we do to learn the most we can about these pets?
1) Each Saturday, from 11 a.m.-12 p.m. we have a training class in which our volunteers work with shelter dogs on basic training, leash work and obedience. We love to have potential adopters come and witness how eager to please and successful these dogs are! Who doesn’t want a dog that is already good on leash, knows how to sit, stay and be respectful?

2) We have a monthly program in which young people come to the shelter and read to shelter pets. We know pretty quickly which dogs and cats enjoy children and have the desire to be with them.

3) Monday through Saturday we hold play groups so the staff will know how each dog behaves with other dogs. We can tell their play style, whether they prefer to be with playful dogs, calm dogs, female dogs, etc. These play groups also help our more timid dogs build confidence and come out of their shells.

4) Our Doggy Day Out program allows Aiken County residents to take shelter dogs to the park or even home for the night to give the dogs a break from shelter life. We learn so much about their home behavior this way. You might even find the perfect pet this way!

Gus (left) in his forever home.

What does it cost to adopt a pet from the Aiken County Animal Shelter?
1) We keep our adoption fees very low to make it affordable. Our dogs and cats come to you spayed/neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. Dogs are only $35 to adopt, cats only $10.


What are you waiting for?
Come and adopt a wonderful pet from the Aiken County Animal Shelter now! It is the best decision you will make.

Their lives are in our hands.

— By Kathy Jacobs, FOTAS Programs Coordinator