Field Trips for Shelter Dogs

One of the hardest parts of being a pet owner who loves to travel is leaving your furry friends behind. Luckily for those planning a trip to Hawai’i, the Kaua’i Humane Society (KHS) has a unique program to fill the fluffy void in vacationers' hearts: Field Trips for Shelter Dogs.

Founded in memory of Jian Metha, a lifelong animal advocate, Field Trips for Shelter Dogs invites travelers to give back to the community in a meaningful way by embarking on a memorable adventure with a pet in need. Exactly as the name suggests, participants essentially rent a dog for the afternoon, offering the animal a much-needed break from the stressors of kennel life while enjoying the beauty of Kaua’i in the process. It’s a win-win!

“Whether you’re a resident, or you’re a visitor, taking a shelter dog out for the day truly makes a difference in the lives of these animals,” said KHS in the Field Trips for Shelter Dogs instructional video on its website.

Travelers howling for more details will be happy to learn the process is simple. The first step is scheduling a pickup time and making a non-refundable $40 donation through KHS’ website. Then, upon arrival, KHS staff works with participants to determine the best dog for the type of day they’d like to have — beach-going, hiking, a city stroll, etc. From there, field trip-goers are equipped with a backpack filled with all the supplies they’ll need for their adventure, including a towel, waste bags and snacks and refreshments for their new four-legged pal.

After outfitting the dog with a flashy “adopt me” harness, visitors are ready to head out to explore the island of Kaua’i, and all it has to offer. As long as they’re buckled in, shelter dogs are car ride-approved, meaning the entire island truly is a participants’ oyster. “Some of our favorite scenic places to take shelter dogs include the Moalepe/Kuilau Trail, Loop Road/Wailua Arboretum, Kapa a Costal Path, Kukulonlono Golf Course Path, Sleeping Giant Trail and the walking baths behind the Lihue Marriott,” said KHS. As for beaches and nearby eateries, KHS recommends Mahaulepu Beach, Secrets Beach, Kalapaki Beach and Kekaha Beach as well as Kauai Beer Company and Jimmy’s Grill. And on those scorching hot days, KHS noted that puppicinos and unflavored shaved ice are doggo fan-favorites.

While exploring together is a memorable experience in and of itself, travelers who participate in this program are assigned an extra important mission: to document and post their experience on social media. The reason for this is twofold: 1) posting helps spread the word about KHS and the services and programs it offers, and 2) it plays a huge role in helping shelter dogs get adopted. “This information is vital in helping the shelter dog get adopted. Even the briefest snapshot of the dog’s behaviors outside of the shelter is crucial to understanding the animal’s true personality,” KHS explained. 

To share the details of their day, field trip goers can either post on their personal accounts and tag @kauaihumanesociety on Facebook and Instagram and @kauaihumane on TikTok or submit their photos and videos directly to the KHS website.

Of course, there’s also the possibility participants fall in love with their new canine companion, something KHS says happens a lot. For travelers hoping to take a shelter dog home, KHS is experienced in getting pets off the island by coordinating with shelters and airport representatives along the way. Alternatively, for those who can’t commit to adoption, participants can support shelter dogs by purchasing merch or donating supplies and money.

At a Glance

What Is Field Trips for Shelter Dogs?

Field Trips for Shelter Dogs is a program run by the Kaua’i Humane Society where visitors can go on an adventure with an adoptable friend.

How Can Advisors Get Involved?

Advisors can learn more about Field Trips for Shelter Dogs by visiting the Kaua’i Humane Society website, kauaihumane.org/service/field-trips, and by following the organization on social media at @kauaihumanesociety.

Originally appeared in the Summer 2024 issue of The Compass magazine