Learn how a local running group teamed up with a local sportswear store to encourage people to get shelter dogs out on the trail for some fresh air and exercise. The result has seen better-adjusted and healthier dogs who are that much more ready for adoption. The RuffTail Runners program has been written about in Dog Fancy and Runner's World, and was named "Best Fitness Charity" by The Austin Chronicle. This presentation was part of the American Pets Alive! 2015 No-Kill Conference.
Presenters: Rob Hill & Lindsay Marsh
February 2015
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It is a program of volunteers trained to take dogs for runs and walks outside of their shelters.
It has a strong community presence and a growing program that is starting in new cities.
It is a safe program (over 300 runs a month for over three years, and no major incidents).
It is very engaging, because it serves as an entry point for many volunteers and adopters.
All of the above.
More reactive to people, bikes, strollers, other dogs, etc.
A health risk, because they are more likely to develop joint problems.
Easier to work with, because tired dogs are easier to train and RuffTail Runners volunteers become extra trainers.
More active, which is better for the dog, but it has a negative impact on adoptability.
All of the above.
True
False
One needs to find a shelter that is willing to take a big risk with little benefits.
Non-profit shelters, especially those committed to “no-kill,” are less willing to participate.
City-managed shelters are an easier sell because there is less red tape to go through.
Once programs gain popularity and show results, with low cost and risk, more shelters will buy in.
All of the above.
Choose a target shelter close to trails or good sidewalks.
Encourage finding locations where volunteers need to transport the dogs in order to run/walk.
Target shelters that have limited accessibility to the community and volunteers.
Location has little impact on the visibility of dogs from the shelter.
None of the above.
Reach out to local running/athletic stores to advertise the program.
Ask running stores to offer group discounts.
Use MeetUp.com and social media to recruit volunteers for the program.
Involve local media; it’s novel and newsworthy.
All of the above.
Matchup.com and other social media programs, advertising through local media, running events, and local running clubs.
Meetup.com and other social media programs, advertising through local media, running events, and local running clubs.
Meetup.com and other social media programs, advertising through local law enforcement, running events, and local running clubs.
Meetup.com and other social media programs, advertising through local media, dancing events, and local running clubs.
Meetup.com and other social media programs, advertising through local media, running events, and local swimming clubs.
Assure that the procedures, standards, and rules for the program are being followed.
Categorize dogs by breed.
Allow all dogs to participate in the program.
Be very flexible about times and weather conditions that the dogs can run/walk.
Make training optional for volunteers.
Review the importance of the health benefits of running.
Demonstrate the process of how best to run up inclines.
Demonstrate equipment used (e.g., Easy Walk® Harness, Gentle Leader® Headcollar, etc.).
Review of “The Bubble”, that is the recommended distance of 100 ft. between the dog and other people.
Teach the process of how to deal with a tired dog.
True
False
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