An Adventurous Beginning
In 2017, the Fredericksburg SPCA launched Adventure Tails—a short-term foster program where community members can take an adoptable shelter dog on an offsite adventure, with no pressure to adopt. The idea is simple: give people the chance to enjoy canine companionship for a day, and give shelter dogs the opportunity to experience fun outings that reduce kennel stress, burn off energy, and boost their visibility with potential adopters.
Since launching the program, the Fredericksburg SPCA has seen a 22% increase in adoption rates—proof that giving dogs time outside the shelter not only improves their well-being but helps them find loving homes faster.
The program is perfect for dog lovers who aren’t quite ready to adopt. Local college students, military families, and anyone craving a little company and adventure are encouraged to take part. And the results speak for themselves: the dogs love these getaways! Adventure Tails truly benefits both dogs and humans alike.
Choose Your Own Adventure…
Taking part in the Adventure Tails program is easy! Anyone 18 years or older with a valid government-issued ID can check out a dog for the day. The knowledgeable staff at the Fredericksburg SPCA will help match each participant with a great adventure buddy and provide everything needed for a successful outing—harnesses, leashes, water bowls, poop bags, and arguably the most important item: treats!
All you need to do is pick the adventure. Whether it’s exploring Historic Downtown, hiking a local trail, taking a scenic drive, or grabbing a “pup cup” from a drive-thru, the day is yours to enjoy—with a canine sidekick along for the ride.
Benefits for All
There’s no denying that shelter life can be overwhelming for animals. The constant noise and unfamiliar surroundings can take a toll on their mental health, making it harder for them to show their true personalities. Even a brief break from the shelter allows dogs to decompress, enjoy new experiences, and simply be themselves.
In return, the Fredericksburg SPCA gains valuable insight into how each dog behaves in different environments—around people, other animals, cars, or children. This helps the team better understand each dog’s unique needs and personality, so they can make thoughtful, well-matched adoption placements.
But the benefits don’t stop there. Adventure Tails also offers people a chance to enjoy the companionship, joy, and stress relief that comes with spending time with a dog—no long-term commitment required. It’s a feel-good way to brighten your day while making a real difference in a shelter dog’s life.
Start Your Adventure
Ready to make a dog’s day (and yours)? Visit the Fredericksburg SPCA to learn more about the Adventure Tails program and how you can be part of something amazing.
