Monday was our first day of Camp Doglando. The campers started their day by coming into the barn and getting to know each other. 

Everyone sat in a circle and we went around introducing ourselves and answering some ice-breaker questions. 

Once everyone was comfortable, we played some fun games. The campers all put their shoes in the circle and were challenged to match the shoes to the camper.

After that, the campers took a tour of Doglando. They learned about the "8 Spheres of Canine Enrichment" and the "7 Golden Rules of Play." 

Campers learned how Doglando is different from doggy daycares in putting dogs in a less stressful environment and allowing them to explore and play using all five of their senses. 

Campers went into the observation room to watch Doglando members' dogs interact in the sand yard. They saw dogs of all different breeds, ages, genders, and sizes. They observed that some dogs were lying out in the sun, while others walked through the pond, or were just exploring their surroundings.

After the tour, the campers headed back to the barn to have lunch. Everyday, we have lunch question to get to know each other better. Today, everyone talked about how they would win the Hunger Games if they were in it.

After lunch, we loaded up the bus to head to Orange County Animal Services. There, the campers experienced a different environment from Doglando. At the shelter, most kennels housed two dogs, there was no air conditioning, and the dogs were very loud. Most of the dogs at the shelter have been there for a couple of months and were stressed. Campers were asked to compare the two different environments using differences in smells, sounds, and sights.

Back at the barn, it was time for the campers to meet their dogs. Before they did, campers learned how to properly hold their leashes and filled their treat pouches. Everyone lined up with their backs to the crates to give kibble to the dogs one-piece-at-a-time, allowing the dogs to smell the campers without being overwhelmed.

Slowly, the campers began to face the dogs, continuing to give them kibble. The dogs were then ready to head outside, so the campers learned how to safely transfer leashes with each other and took them to the grass strip.

Out on the grass strip, the campers were given a chance to get to know all of the camp dogs. Once everyone had walked all of the dogs, the campers headed back inside.

The campers that knew which dogs they wanted sat in front of those dogs' crates. And, the campers that were happy with any dog remained standing and picked a dog that had not been chosen. With that, all of the campers had selected their dog for the next two weeks.

Before the end of the day, campers learned the rules of a doggie sleepover, got their pictures taken with their dog, and refilled their food pouches.

Campers then headed home for their first night with their dogs.

See you tomorrow!

- Sophia