On a dog’s dream day, there would be plenty of walks, new friends and maybe even a trip to a forever home. The City of Chula Vista Animal Services helped make that dream a reality during its second annual Walk a Dog Day on Saturday, Feb. 21, at the City of Chula Vista Animal Care Facility, 130 Beyer Way.

Held in honor of National Walk Your Dog Day, the free community event invited individuals and families of all ages to walk shelter dogs and support their mental and physical well-being. More than 600 volunteers signed up to participate, with hundreds coming out to show their support and spend time with dogs in need of exercise and social interaction. The day also led to four dogs being adopted and three dogs entering foster to adopt homes.

“We are so grateful for the overwhelming number of volunteers who came out for Walk a Dog Day,” said Ashley Milo, director of Animal Services. “Families from across San Diego County were excited to give shelter dogs the attention, care and exercise they need while helping support their overall well-being.”

Facility staff and trained volunteers were on site throughout the event to guide participants and ensure a safe, welcoming and family-friendly experience. The goal was to provide enrichment and socialization for shelter dogs while offering the community a meaningful, hands-on way to support local animal welfare efforts.

Community members who want to continue supporting animals at the Chula Vista Animal Care Facility can volunteer to walk dogs, foster pets in need of temporary homes, donate supplies or help share adoptable pets through the shelter’s social media channels.

For more information, visit chulavistaca.gov.