HIGH COUNTRY HIKERS
Sponsored by Olsen’s Grain of Flagstaff
Take a Shelter Dog on a Trail Adventure
Love hiking? Want to make a shelter dog’s day? Join our High Country Hikers program and give a pup a much-needed break from the shelter!
Shelter dogs can spend up to 23 hours a day in a kennel. But just a couple hours out on the trail can make a world of difference for their mental and physical well-being. Whether you’re a seasoned trail junkie or just looking for a fun and meaningful way to spend your afternoon, we make it easy to get involved!
> For safety and to help our dogs get the most from their outing, please leave personal pets at home. The focus of this program is one-on-one enrichment for the shelter dog!
How It Works
1. Stop by between 11am-4:30pm, Thursday through Tuesday. (We’re closed Wednesdays.)
2. Head to the front lobby and let our team know you’d like to take a dog on a hike. You’ll sign a waiver if you haven’t already!
3. We’ll help match you with a dog (one year and older) based on your comfort level, whether you’re up for a high-energy adventure buddy or a mellow trail companion, and take into account WHERE you’re going!
4. Leash up and go! Enjoy some fresh air and quality time with a grateful dog.
5. Bring them back when you’re done and share any notes about how the hike went. Please just make sure they’re back onsite BY 4:30pm so they can have their dinner on time!
📍Please stick to trails within a reasonable distance from the shelter: Flagstaff, Doney Park, Kachina Village, and nearby areas are perfect.
📸 Don’t forget to snap a pic and tag us on social media! You might just help your hiking buddy find a forever home.
Trail Safety & Etiquette Tips
Before you hit the trail, please keep these quick safety guidelines in mind:
• Never let your shelter dog off leash, even in seemingly quiet areas.
• Step aside on narrow trails to allow others to pass, this helps avoid unexpected greetings or conflicts.
• Watch the dog’s body language and avoid overwhelming them with too much stimulation. If they’re not having fun, it’s okay to bring them back and try a new shelter friend!
No Experience Needed
You don’t need to be a regular volunteer to participate, just someone who wants to help. We’ll provide the leash, waste bags, and everything else you’ll need. All you have to bring is a love for animals and a little time.
Why It Matters
Even short outings can lower stress, improve behavior, and boost adoptability. For many of our dogs, it’s the highlight of their day. Your hike gives them a chance to stretch their legs, sniff new things, and just be a dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
Feel free to contact us at volunteer@highcountryhumane.org. We’re happy to answer additional questions and help you get started.
Where are you located & when can I hike a shelter dog?
Our shelter is located at 11665 N. Highway 89, Flagstaff, AZ.
You can hike a shelter dog from 11am-4:30pm. Please bring your dog home in time for their dinner (4:30pm).
Can hiking groups participate in the High Country Hikers Program?
Of course, we love groups! For groups of 6 or more, please email volunteer@highcountryhumane.org to set something up!
Can we pick up the dogs at the shelter and meet our friends at the trail?
Yes, as long as the people you are meeting don’t have their own dog. Additionally, for liability reasons, they cannot hold the leash of the shelter dog.
*Only those who have signed the waiver are able to handle the pup on the trail!
Can children join us on the hikes?
Yes, we have a specialized Minor Liability Waiver that must be signed at the Front Desk before they can join you on the hike.
Can I bring my own dogs in and take them hiking with yours?
For safety and to help our dogs get the most from their outing, please leave personal pets at home. The focus of this program is one-on-one enrichment for the shelter dog!
Can we take shelter pets to bodies of water, like Lake Mary?
Yes, but only if the dog has not recently had spay/neuter surgery. Please make sure you let our team know if you plan to go to a lake so we can send you with a fully healed dog!
>As long as the body of water is dog-friendly and within the hiking location parameters (Flagstaff, Doney Park, Kachina Village).
>Never let them off leash!
>Try not to let them drink too much lake water, this can cause upset tummies!
Can my hiking partner have a pup cup?
Yes, ONE pup cup after your hike is OK. We kindly ask that you don’t give other rewards such as burgers, fries, nuggets, etc.
*Again, we want to avoid upset tummies & diarrhea. Some pets are on special diets as well.
Thank you to our generous program sponsor: Olsen's Grain of Flagstaff!