No Pooch? No Problem! This Program Sets You Up With A Four-Legged Hiki

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT

Want a dog but lack the time or space? The Hike with Adoptable Hounds program is here to help.

I’ve written extensively here on PetGuide about the challenges of being a puppy parent in the big city. It’s not always easy having a dog when you live in the concrete jungle, and for many city dwellers, a lack of time, space, or a landlord that allows a pooch all play a role in the decision to remain dog-free.

Some people aren’t sure if they can commit to a dog full time, and that’s actually a good thing: it’s better to know that ahead of time than to adopt a dog, only to realize you can’t give them the home they deserve. This is how the endless and sad cycle of our loyal companions ending up at shelters across the country perpetuates itself.

One New York City-based adventure provider is hoping to help city dwellers and adoptable dogs find a happy medium with a new program called Hike with Adoptable Hounds. Discover Outdoor runs two monthly trips to Harriman State Park, an hour outside Manhattan, pairing dogs who need a home with outdoorsy, canine-loving humans for a daylong hike through the wilderness.

The dogs come from Animal Haven Shelter, located in the heart of NYC. The shelter’s kennel manager, Mary Wadlock, says the program is great for the pups. And so far, Hike with Adoptable Hounds seems to be attracting many busy, working millennials, such as marketing manager Patrick Pan, 27.

Pan loves dogs, but doesn’t feel settled enough to adopt one right now — he lives with two roommates in the city’s Financial District, so space is at premium. He heard about the program from a coworker and says he “signed up on the spot. It’s a great chance for these dogs to get out here, plus I love to hike.”

So far, none of the hikers have adopted their walking companions, but engaged couple Trista Watson and Tyler McConnell might just change that statistic: they’ve developed a soft spot for Barker, the Pitbull mix they were set up with for their wilderness hike. “We’re getting married in March, so I’m thinking about the next step, which is adopting a dog,” says McConnell.

A day with the Hike with Adoptable Hounds program costs $110 and includes transportation to and from Harriman State Park, a picturesque 4.5 mile hike and a 30-minute lunch break. And part of the proceeds benefits Animal Haven Shelter.

Interested in hiking with a pooch in need? Visit Discover Outdoor’s website for more information.

[Source: New York Post]

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

You May Like

German Rex

German Rex cats are lively and friendly, and they''ll get along really well with just about anyone, from young children to the elderly.
Adoptable Dog Of The Week – Lionel

This week’s Adoptable Dog of the Week from Adoptapet.com is Lionel, a strapping fellow who has plenty of love to give. He’s a Boxer and Great Dan…
Snorkie

The Snorkie (Miniature Schnauzer and Yorkshire Terrier) is an intelligent little dog that thrives on human interaction and is a devoted family pet.
Orlov Trotter

The quiet temperament of the Orlov Trotter makes it a wonderful companion, whether you need a work horse, a sport horse, or a riding horse.
Top 10 Toys To Keep Your Dog Mentally Sharp

Looking for ways to keep your smarty-pup''s mind stimulated? Check out the top 10 toys to keep your dog mentally sharp (and have fun in the process!).
Lionhead Rabbit

The Lionhead rabbit has a wool mane circling around their head much like a lion''s mane, hence its name. They are energetic, affectionate and love to play.
Norwegian Elkhound

The Norwegian Elkhound is a friendly soul but he is also independent and dignified by nature. A fierce hunter, he is also a kind, gentle and loving soul.
Let’s Talk About Pancreatitis In Dogs

A disease that''s hard to digest, pancreatitis in dogs requires a total change in lifestyle and careful monitoring. What you can do and how to treat it.
Pugshire

As a designer dog breed, the Pugshire comes from two purebred parents- in his case, it''s the Yorkshire Terrier and the Pug.
The ABCs On How To Extend Your Senior Dog’s Lifespan

There’s no reason why senior dogs can’t shine in their golden years – we’ve got some tips to extend and improve your pooch’s li…
Pros And Cons Of Raising Littermates

The more, the merrier... right? Well, that''s not always the case. There are positives and negatives of bringing home littermates - let''s go over a few.
Gen Y Dogma: The Unexpected Costs Of Being An Urban Pet Parent

Living in a bustling urban center can have its advantages. But it also comes with a host of costly extras you may have never had suspected… especially…
American Shorthair

The American Shorthair is an easy-going cat that openly displays affection and does well with children and dogs. They do, however, like their quiet time.
Adoptable Dog Of The Week – Symphony

Say hello to Symphony, our Adoptable Dog of the Week from Adoptapet.com. Living in Phoenix, AZ, this adorable Boxer is about 3 years old and is ready to leav…
Lending A Helping Paw: What’s Involved In Therapy Dog Training

Does your pooch have the right stuff to make a difference and help people who need a furry friend the most? Then you should consider therapy dog training.