A happy day for all: runners give shelter dogs an outing

Volunteering at a dog shelter is easy, fun and a wholesome experience for everyone. All you need is a love for dogs and an hour to spare.

A group of runners recently took the 70 dogs currently staying at the Nicosia Dog Shelter out for a run, a few at a time.

“The idea started during the holidays, when things were slower regarding volunteers. We thought of promoting volunteerism at the shelters by turning up and taking it from there,” Fimi Hadjiyianni told the Cyprus Mail.

She sent a message and called for people with high endurance.

“A runner has very high endurance. We wanted to take all the dogs out of their compounds,” Fimi said.

Dromea running club members turned up with their families and friends.

“We were about 20 people and we met our goal – all the dogs went for a run.”

There are many ways someone can volunteer at any of the dog shelters in Cyprus. “All shelters have needs and people can help in any way they want, as much as they want and wherever they want,” Fimi explained.

On the day of the run, the volunteers took one, two or three dogs each, went for a run and then took others out.

“It is very different running alone and running with a dog. They were all happy – people and dogs alike.”

Fimi said “the energy generated between a dog and a person is unique.”

“You have to feel it to understand.”

The event lasted an hour and all dogs got a turn.

Others who saw the event posted online are organising their own visits to take the dogs out.

Those wishing to organise a trip to the dog shelter need to bring their bottle of water, an energy bar in case they get hungry and wear comfortable clothes and running shoes. Old clothes are best, as “the dogs get excited and want petting.”

“We will match each person with the right dog. The carers know the dogs well,” Fimi said.

The Nicosia Dog Shelter is situated within the UN area at the old Nicosia airport. Visitors will need to make an appointment by calling Vicky on 96328080 from 10am till 7pm from Monday to Saturday and give their name, ID number and car registration number to get a pass.

Dog shelters are in need of volunteers to take the dogs out for exercise and clean the compounds. Financial assistance is important and one can donate as little as €1 per month.

Foster homes also make a huge difference as “some dogs come from homes so putting them in a shelter can frighten them and reduce their chances of being adopted in the future,” Fimi said.

There are other ways to help too, by attending events organised to raise money for the shelters.

One such upcoming event is Dog’s Day Out on October 12 at Papafilippou Luna Park in Makedonitissa, Nicosia. The event will run from 3pm till 7pm and will include meeting shelter dogs, free dog ice cream, a charity market and activities for children, with a live link with Love radio. For more information, call 22357005 or 96328080.