In Fort Bragg, Mendocino County, on the North Coast, the Mendocino Coast Humane Society runs a program called Borrow a Buddy that lets you take an adoptable dog out for the day. It’s genuinely one of the more creative ways to spend time with a dog while you’re visiting the area.

Here’s how it works: you visit the Mendocino Coast Humane Society, meet some of the dogs available through the program, and arrange to borrow one for a field trip around the county. You get to explore the stunning landscapes and coastal areas—think Fort Bragg’s rugged beaches, nearby state parks, and scenic trails—while the dog gets exercise, socialization, and a break from the shelter environment. It’s a straightforward trade: the dog benefits from a day out in the world, and you get a genuine companion for whatever you’re doing that day rather than trying to figure out dog-friendly activities on your own.

The program is casual enough that you don’t need to be a dog owner or have previous experience. Dogs like Mickey and others in the program are available for borrowing, and the Humane Society staff will match you with a dog that fits what you’re planning. Since you’re checking out the program beforehand through their website, you can see who’s available and get a sense of different personalities before you visit.

What makes this different from standard shelter visits is the purpose: these dogs aren’t just being shown to you as potential adoptees. They’re getting real-world experience that helps them become more adoptable, while you get a no-pressure way to see if dog ownership might actually work for your life. It’s especially useful if you’re traveling and want a dog companion but don’t want to commit to anything permanent. You’re essentially giving a shelter dog exactly what it needs most—time outside and genuine human attention.