Doggy Day Out

A small commitment with a huge impact

Looking for fun things to do in Sonoma that go beyond wine tasting? Pets Lifeline’s Doggy Day Out is a one-of-a-kind experience where you can spend time with a Sonoma Valley shelter dog for a day, weekend, or even overnight.

Whether you're exploring Sonoma’s scenic trails, enjoying a picnic in the park, or just relaxing at home, our shelter dogs are ready for an adventure with you. It’s a rewarding way to experience Sonoma Valley while giving a lonely rescue pup some well-deserved affection.

And the best part? Our Doggy Day Out program gives both locals and visitors the chance to experience the unconditional love of a shelter pup while giving the dogs a much-needed break from shelter life. It’s a small commitment with a huge impact.

Options for an outing

Take a pup out for the day. Whether it’s a scenic hike or a day on the town, it’s the perfect way to enjoy time together. We’ll provide a backpack stocked with all the essentials for your adventure!

Available dates

At launch, Doggy Day Out will be available on Saturdays only as we focus on providing a quality experience. As we fine-tune the program and improve logistics, we plan to expand to additional days.

Who is eligible?

If you're 18 or older or have an accompanying adult, you can sign up. The most important thing is that our pups get a loving companion for a shelter break—we’ll handle the rest.

Share on social media

The best way to help your pup find a forever home is to post your day on social media. Cute photos? Adorable videos? Yes, please! Just share, tag Pets Lifeline, and spread the love.

I'm ready to

sign up!

Awesome! Our shelter dogs can’t wait to spend the day with you. Schedule your Saturday outing below, and our team will match you with the perfect pup for your plans and preferences.

What to expect – When you come to Pets Lifeline to pick up your we will provide you with everything needed for the best Doggy Day Out ever. You'll get a Doggy Day Out backpack with:

✔ Instruction card and guide book (download here)

✔ Adopt Me vest

✔ Harness and leash

✔ Collar and tag

✔ Seat belt

✔ Waste bags and holder

✔ Water bottle and bowl

✔ Treats and treat pouch

✔ Toys!

Hikes and Trails

Dog-friendly parks and trails in Sonoma Valley. More options in surrounding areas can be found at Sonoma County.

Sonoma, CA

Bartholomew Park – A sprawling park overlooking vineyards and Sonoma Valley.
Sonoma Bike Path – A scenic 2-mile paved trail that runs through the downtown.
Sonoma Botanical Garden – While dogs aren’t yet allowed during regular hours, well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome on Wednesday summer nights for their Acoustic Sunsets events.

Glen Ellen (20-minutes from Pets Lifeline)

Jack London State Historic Park – Leashed dogs welcome in historic areas but not on trails.
Elizabeth Perrone Dog Park – Offers a fenced area for dogs to play off-leash.

Why
participate?

Borrowing a dog isn’t just fun—it’s backed by science!

Reduce Stress & Anxiety – Spending time with a dog lowers cortisol levels and boosts serotonin, leaving you happier and more relaxed.
Enjoy an Instant Mood Boost – Dogs make us smile, laugh, and feel good. It’s that simple.
Get Outdoors & Active – Whether it’s a leisurely stroll or an adventurous hike, your Bestie will help you hit your daily step goal.
Be a Hero for a Shelter Dog – Giving a dog time outside the shelter helps them decompress, gain confidence, and showcase their personality to potential adopters.

Wineries and Tasting Rooms

Our recommended wineries and tasting rooms in Sonoma for relaxing with your pup. Other resources for dog-friendly wineries are Sonoma County and Sonoma Mag.

Restaurants and Dining

Enjoy a meal in the heart of Sonoma downtown in Sonoma Plaza. You can also search Bring Fido and Dog Trekker for more dog-friendly options in Sonoma Valley.

Puppy Treats

Patio and Live Music

Valley Bar & Bottle – An amazing patio, award-winning food and friendly staff.
HopMonk Tavern – Check out their calendar of events for bands on the patio.
Murphy’s Irish Pub – Live music in the heart of Sonoma Plaza with a patio.
Bloom Carneros – L ive music, kid-friendly, and outdoor space for you and pup.
Buck's Place – Best pizza in town, pinball machines, live music and you guessed it, a patio.

Lodging

Lodging in Sonoma Valley that welcomes dogs. All of these accommodations welcome you and your furry companion, with some providing a cozy dog bed.

MacArthur Place Hotel and Spa and The Lodge are conveniently located near local parks and trails, just under a mile from downtown Sonoma.

Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn is nestled in Boyes Hot Springs and boasts beautifully manicured grounds with plenty of shade—perfect for a relaxing stroll with your pup.

For budget-conscious, pet-loving travelers, Sonoma Valley Inn is the perfect spot. Located across the street from Whole Foods, just one block from the historic plaza, and a few blocks from an extensive bike path, it’s an ideal landing pad for your Sonoma adventure.

FAQs

How long can I take a dog out for?

Pick-up appointments range from 11am - 4pm and can range in duration. For now, drop off is the same day by 4 pm.

Do I need to bring my own leash or any supplies?

Nope! All supplies will be provided for you.

What type of dog should I expect?

Staff will pair you with a dog prior to your appointment based on your answers during sign-up and which dog could use a break from the shelter the most. You should expect a dog who is generally young and energetic, so get ready for an adventure!

Can I bring my own dog?

No, we advise against this for the safety of both dogs and we encourage your undivided attention to be focused on your besties for the day.

Where can I bring my Doggy Day Out dog?

In the Doggy Day Out packet provided at pick-up, you'll find a map featuring some recommended destinations to explore with your Doggy Day Out companion. While we provide suggestions, you're welcome to take your dog to any location that allows dogs.

Popular destinations include hiking trails, breweries with patios, pet stores where they can pick out a toy, or even places like Pet Food Express or Woof! for a bit of shopping. You’re also more than welcome to bring your Doggy Day Out dog back to your house to relax or play in the backyard. If you choose to do so, please ensure that any resident pets can be safely separated during the visit.

How can I help during or after my outing?

Please take photos to share along with details about your adventure. These will be added to the dog’s adoption profile to help potential adopters learn more about the dog. If you find yourself falling in love with your Doggy Day Out companion, consider adopting or fostering and provide the dog with a loving home!

Social media?

Yes, please share photos and even videos from your Doggy Day Out – tag Pets Lifeline and use our hashtags so others can see your adventure! This helps to inspire other Doggy Day Out participants to also post and promote their pups. All in the spirit of helping these shelter dogs find their forever homes. @petslifeline #petslifelinedoggydayout