What Are Playgroups?

With help from Dogs Playing for Life (dogsplayingforlife.com), we are excited to offer our own Dog Playgroup Program! This engaging opportunity allows up to 20 dogs to play and interact in a single supervised group.

How Can You Help?

The Joplin Humane Society is seeking active, dedicated volunteers to become Playgroup Dog Walkers! As a Walker, you will be responsible for the following duties:

• Arrive promptly at the scheduled time for your shift.
• Log volunteer hours using the Better Impact software.
• Follow Lead Handler (LH) instructions at all times!
  • Backup LH decisions even if you disagree.
• Remove dogs from the designated kennel as instructed by the LH and walk them to the Play Yards.
• Hold leash like a handle (don’t wear it like a bracelet)—SAFETY FIRST!
• Keep leash soft during barrier greeting.
• Do not handle the gate or enter the yard unless instructed to do so by LH.
• Return dogs to their kennel as instructed by the LH as they become tired.
• If LH needs help:
  • Remove extraneous dogs to minimize the number of dogs engaged in conflict and to protect playgroup handlers.
  • Keep your cool and follow instructions from LH.

When Is Playgroup?

We meet on the following schedule every week:

• Wednesdays & Fridays
  • 11 am-1 pm
  • 3 pm-5 pm
• Saturdays
  • 10 am-12 pm
  • 1 pm-3 pm

Why Playgroups?

Playgroups offer an irreplaceable experience for our dogs where they can engage in natural social behaviors not normally available to them. Data shows that 30 minutes in a playgroup is more effective at reducing the stress hormone cortisol than walking on leash for 2 hours! Playgroups also allow dogs to develop important social skills, which will ease the transition into a permanent home.

Where to Start?

Ready to join our team? If you haven't already, please use the link below to complete a volunteer application and begin your journey today!

Click here to sign up!

Already a Volunteer?

Click here to complete your Dog Playgroup Helper Orientation!