You can now borrow a dog for a day at the local shelter launched the Adventure Buddy program in early December 2025, allowing people 18 and over to borrow an adoptable dog for a day or an overnight sleepover from its location at 307 West Broadway. Recent trends show that dog adoption rates have rebounded from the pandemic dip and are currently holding steady, with an increase from 56% of intakes in 2019 to 61% in 2023.

The initiative is designed to give adoptable dogs short-term outings — such as a trip to the park, going to a coffee shop, or just snuggling on the couch at home — and to offer residents a low-commitment way to interact with shelter pets outside the center. Programs like Adventure Buddy have been linked to a significantly higher likelihood of adoption for participating dogs, as noted in a multi-shelter study that highlighted how outings can enhance the visibility and perceived value of dogs.

The program operates out of Best Friends Animal Society’s adoption center at 307 West Broadway. Participants must be 18 or older to take a dog out for a day; the offering includes a sleepover option when initial visits go well. Dogs will be available on a first-come, first-served basis and the center staff underscores the importance of following safety rules, such as keeping dogs leashed in public spaces, to ensure the well-being of both the dogs and the community.

Best Friends Animal Society, listed in the organization’s materials as the provider of the Adventure Buddy program, framed the launch as an opportunity to reduce stress for adoptable dogs by showcasing them in everyday settings. Examples of permitted outings include a walk in a park or a quiet period on a couch, according to program descriptions. Participants have the chance to deepen their connection with a dog while providing important socialization experiences.

“Adventure Buddy gives New Yorkers a chance to brighten both an adoptable dog’s day as well as their own, while also getting to know the pets outside the walls of our center,” said Marlan Roberts, ED of Best Friends Animal Society.

Staff at the adoption center will meet visitors and make adoptable dogs available for outings; the program’s brief, outside-the-shelter experiences are intended to offer dogs time away from kennels while allowing potential adopters or supporters to spend relaxed, real-world time with pets. As potential adopters enjoy these outings, they are also reminded of their responsibilities, which include keeping a close eye on the dog’s welfare and following outlined guidelines for safety and interaction.

The launch at 307 West Broadway follows the model Best Friends has used elsewhere to create short-term, enrichment-focused outings for shelter animals. Local coverage of the new program appeared in Tribeca Citizen, and Best Friends posted related information in its media materials describing the Adventure Buddy launch and goals.

Best Friends Animal Society describes the program as part of its broader work as an animal shelter-focused organization. The center’s adoption staff will handle check-out procedures and coordinate which adoptable dogs are eligible for outings on any given day.

The Adventure Buddy program is positioned for people who want to support shelter animals but may not be ready or able to adopt or foster long term; it offers a temporary, supervised chance to provide enrichment and companionship to adoptable dogs. By engaging in this program, participants not only help promote dog adoptions but also contribute to the well-being of animals needing homes.

Source materials about the launch are available from Best Friends Animal Society and local reporting; see the Best Friends announcement and the Tribeca Citizen account for further details.

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Original reporting: view the original article.