One Night. One Kennel. One Life-Changing Experience.
Do you have what it takes to spend a night in the paws of a shelter pet?
Join the Erie Humane Society on Friday, June 26 for Night at the Shelter — a unique overnight experience that provides a glimpse into what life is like for shelter pets after the staff leave for the evening.
“Pawticipants” will spend the night in a kennel alongside one of our shelter pets, helping raise awareness for pet adoption through their firsthand experience while also raising much-needed funds to support the homeless animals in our care.
This unforgettable night is about more than sleeping at the shelter — it’s about advocacy, compassion, and understanding the reality many shelter pets face while they wait for a family of their own.
Check-in: 6:00 PM
Check-out: 8:00 AM the following morning
Interested in being a roommate for Night at the Shelter? Read through the details below and submit an interest form!
Must be 18 years or older to participate
Your Role as a Roommate
- Be prepared to spend the night in a kennel with a shelter dog (or alternate location with a shelter cat).
- Bring a sleeping bag, pillow, blankets, yoga mat -- whatever will make your stay most comfortable. Keep in mind that kennels have limited space, so cots and air mattresses will not be feasible.
- WARNING: roommate may be subject to an abundance of slobbery kisses, bed hogging, and snoring.
- Help us fundraise! Caring for homeless pets, providing a save haven, nourishment and medical is an expensive operation. Each roommate will receive a Facebook fundraising page with a $1,000 goal. Share this page with your friends, family, co-workers, neighbors...anyone that cares about helping homeless pets.
- Be an active voice for shelter pets. During your stay, we encourage you to use your social media to share thoughts, feelings, observations -- anything you believe will help convey the importance of pet adoption and the support of homeless pets. The weight of your firsthand experience is a powerful testimonial.
- Share your feedback after your experience. Take the day after your stay to decompress and think about your experience. Share your final thoughts on what life is like for a shelter pet and encourage others to get involved in our mission so they can also impact the lives of homeless pets.
Benefits for Your Shelter Roommate
- Provides companionship and comfort during the overnight hours when the shelter becomes quiet and unfamiliar
- Helps reduce stress, anxiety, and loneliness for shelter pets
- Gives pets additional socialization and positive human interaction
- Offers extra enrichment and attention outside of normal shelter routines
- Gives pets a relaxing night filled with affection, cuddles, playtime, and companionship
- Helps potential adopters see shelter pets' unique personalities
- Supports the pet’s overall emotional well-being while they wait for a forever family
