A new volunteer program is giving shelter dogs in Bryson City a chance to stretch their legs and it is all thanks to P.A.W.S. Animal Shelter.
Dogs get to explore the world beyond the kennel and connect with potential adopters.
The group, known as the Tailblazers, pairs shelter dogs with volunteer handlers for biweekly group walks held on alternating Wednesdays.
Beth Cline, P.A.W.S. director, said about 15 dogs from the shelter typically participate.
Walkers meet at noon at the shelter, located at 57 Lemons Branch Road, before transporting the dogs to a nearby walking location. Organizers allow about two hours for each outing, including travel time, while the walk itself generally lasts around an hour.
The routes vary, giving the dogs exposure to new environments and experiences outside the shelter.
Cline initially considered holding the walks weekly but said scheduling conflicts with the shelter’s spay and neuter transport schedule made that difficult. The next group walk is scheduled for March 18.
The program is designed to benefit both the dogs and the volunteers who walk them. For many animals, especially those that are timid, the outings help build confidence and teach basic leash skills.
Some dogs at the shelter have been hesitant to leave the yard, but participation in the walks has helped them grow more comfortable exploring beyond the facility.
Volunteers also say they enjoy the program because it allows them to meet new people while helping the dogs gain exposure that could lead to adoption.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to see how much the dogs enjoy getting out,” said longtime volunteer Tina Dann, who has helped walk shelter dogs for years. Cindy Mease, another regular volunteer, also participates in the walks.
While the shelter has organized group walks in the past with certain groups, Cline said this is the first time they have established the program as a regular event.
The idea grew out of a desire to help shelter dogs feel safe and confident outside the facility’s fence line while providing them with exercise and companionship.
Shelter officials say the program reflects their broader mission of improving the lives of the animals in their care, but they note the shelter continues to face ongoing needs.
According to Cline, financial support remains the shelter’s most pressing challenge as it works to maintain operations and continue its mission. Community members can help by donating, volunteering, adopting or fostering animals.
Cline encouraged residents to join the walks.
Donations are needed to keep the shelter running.
The annual Saint P. A.W.S. event will take place March 17 at CJ’s Bar and Grille, serving corned beef and cabbage, with live music from Randall Griggs starting at 7 p.m.
For more information or to participate in the Tailblazers club, contact P.A.W.S. Animal Shelter at 828-488-0418.