Basic Tips for Walking Dogs at Your Local Shelter

Andrew Muc has spent 16 years as an accounting manager with NRG Energy, Inc., in Princeton, New Jersey. Beyond his activities in this position, which range from ensuring monthly revenue goals to consolidating financial reports for all NRG entities, Andrew Muc is an avid lover of cats and dogs. He spends time volunteering at local animal shelters looking after animals and taking part in fundraising events.

Animal shelters are always in need of volunteers, particularly when it comes to providing exercise to the shelter’s more active animals. When walking a dog on behalf of a rescue or shelter, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, when interacting with a shelter dog, walkers will need to balance a strong posture with a forgiving nature. Also, shelter dogs need love and attention like any other animal, so it is fine for walkers to treat their prospective walking partners with a snack both before and after an outing.

However, shelter dogs can also be full of energy and may be a step behind in obedience training. Therefore, walkers must quickly establish who is leading the walk. It is also advisable to avoid running into other volunteers when leaving the shelter’s kennel to start the walk.

Additional things to keep in mind when volunteering as a dog walker with a local animal shelter include wearing the appropriate attire for a long, fulfilling walk, and getting familiar with the particular leash and collar the shelter uses.