MSPCA Cape Cod Run Club

Run with the Dogs!

Join Run Club!

Are you an avid runner and an animal lover? Or are you running for the first time and looking for some company? MSPCA Cape Cod is looking for runners of all experience levels to join our volunteer Run Club and help with exercising some of our shelter dogs!

You will get the opportunity to make an impact on our dogs by providing them much needed exercise and some quality time outside of the shelter. Our population varies week to week, so you will have the opportunity to frequently meet new dogs! All levels of runners are welcome!

What to Expect

• Runners are considered volunteers and will be oriented to our volunteer program prior to running with dogs.
• Run independently or with a partner volunteer, and accompanying shelter dogs.
• Runners with dogs will keep some distance between them and other dogs (if applicable) for safety.
• Learn to use dog handling equipment including (but not limited to) harnesses, hands-free leashes, and treat pouches.
• Run up to 3 miles or for 30-45 minutes in various locations (it is all up to what the dog wants to do!)
• If new to running, a willingness to try! Our team is there to help you find your groove!
• You will need to be at least 18 years old to join, due to the Orange Dog handling skills training required.
• An orientation and hands-on training will be provided!

There may be times that we do not have a dog to match you with for the run. If that is the case, you are still welcome to run with a fellow Run Club volunteer, or walk dogs independently.

Run club often goes into a local neighborhood, directly from the shelter – but there are times that another location may be preferred due to visibility, a dog’s comfort level, or community events.

We are thrilled to be launching the first volunteer Run Club at the Cape Cod location! Please note that because the club is just starting out, you’re likely to be running independently with a matched dog or with a partner Run Club volunteer, when schedules align.

Successful volunteers in Run Club will be:

• Comfortable around medium to large breed dogs. Experience and comfort handling large, high arousal dogs is a plus!
• Comfortable being matched with a dog by staff.
• Able to adjust pace to the dog’s and the group’s speed as needed.
• Able to multitask and pay attention to surroundings and individual dog’s needs.
• Able to clearly communicate and follow instructions.
• Leaving their own dog at home! Runners know that these runs are for quality time with dogs awaiting adoption!
• Nice to have: An active driver’s license and ability to transport shelter dogs in your vehicle to various locations for Run Club.

Please note that our Run Club is not open to drop-in runs. Run Club is considered a part of our volunteer program and does not permit running with personal dogs in the groups.

Click Here to Return to the MSPCA Cape Cod Volunteer Page