On a recent Saturday morning, 14 runners came up at 7:30am to run 51 dogs. It might be getting hotter outside but these pups don’t seem to care, what mattered most to them was the freedom, the movement, and the chance to be out of their kennels. You know what that feels like, right? The chance to move and breathe. With nearly 500 dogs at the shelter and limited space for playtime, these runs are often the highlight of their week. For just one mile, each dog gets to leave the shelter behind, both physically and mentally. They run with a human who’s there just for them. And when they return, it shows. They’re calmer, more relaxed, and a little lighter. Adopters visiting the shelter later in the day get to see that too. They’re greeted by dogs who’ve had a chance to release their energy, reset their emotions, and just be dogs.
Training for a race? Make your miles matter, for you and a shelter pup.
Here’s how you can turn your routine into a lifeline.
Join the D90 Running Group
Every Saturday and Sunday morning, our running group meets to take dogs of all ages and sizes out for a one-mile run. Whether you’re training for a race or just want to start your weekend with purpose, this is a great way to give shelter dogs much-needed exercise. Not only do you get to be the best part of their day, you can. These pups have been proven by our amazing volunteers to be the perfect running partners: full of energy, eager to keep up, and always ready for the next mile. When you run with a dog, you gain a loyal teammate who loves every step just as much as you do. At the end of the run, there’s a cool-down period filled with cuddles, tail wags, and playtime. The team brings out fun decorations and cameras to capture photos and videos, but most importantly, they take notes to share with the shelter and the community. These observations help highlight each dog’s personality, quirks, and crucial details that can make all the difference in finding them a forever home.
One volunteer shares: “I joined the D90 running group to meet people and to challenge myself in running. I’m a shy person but this group is so friendly and we already had two things in common: running and dogs. It was easy to have conversations and create friendships.
Take a Dog on a Daycation
Doggie Daycations let you take an adoptable dog out for a day of adventure away from the shelter. Whether it’s a walk, a run, or a park hangout, it’s a great way to stay active and help a pup decompress. When you arrive at the shelter, you’ll be offered several dogs to choose from, and all supplies: leash, harness, etc. will be provided. 942 dogs went on a Daycation and 67% were adopted! Your day with a shelter dog can be the reason they find a home!
Foster A Dog
Whether it’s just for a weekend or the whole summer, you can choose a dog that matches your lifestyle and give them a much-needed break from the shelter. Letting them crash on your couch isn’t just good for them, it’s good for you too. They’ll be your built-in running buddy, keeping you motivated and accountable. The moment you reach for your running shoes, they’ll be right there, tail wagging, ready to hit the pavement with you.
Adopt A Dog
If you live an active lifestyle, chances are there’s a dog out there who would love it just as much as you do, especially at Dallas Animal Services, one of the largest dog and cat intake shelters in the country. With over 28,000 animals cared for each year, you’ll find dogs of all ages, shapes, and sizes, and maybe even your perfect training buddy. You might just find the perfect running partner, one who’s as excited about race day as you are.
Shop, Share, and Support
Spread the word by wearing and sharing D90 running merch. Whether you’re out on a run or at a race, your gear can spark conversations and help connect more dog-loving runners to our mission. Proceeds from shopping go toward the lifesaving care at Dallas Animal Services.
Getting involved might not only change a dog’s life, it could change yours too.
