Beyond Our Walls
In choosing Downtown Dogs you know you are helping your dog get the important stimulation, socialization, and exercise they need. But did you know that you are also helping homeless dogs, the environment, and your local economy? At Downtown Dogs we are committed to reaching beyond our own walls to make the world a better place for pets and people.
We are stewards of our planet
- New HVAC systems installed in 2021 and 2022 increase the health and safety of everyone who enters Downtown Dogs and decrease energy usage by 15%.
- In 2022 we replaced all fluorescent lighting with energy-efficient LED lights.
- Our white roof reduces greenhouse emissions to the ozone layer and saves significant amounts of natural resources with its energy efficiency.
We work hard to attract, train, and retain high caliber employees
Our incredible team is what makes Downtown Dogs stand out from the “pack.” We value our team members and invest in them to ensure they are caring and professional when meeting all of your dog’s needs.
- We offer above industry standard starting pay, wages, and bonuses.
- We provide generous benefits including FREE HEALTH INSURANCE and four weeks of paid family leave on top of the required 12 unpaid weeks.
- We recognize strong performers and encourage promotions from within.
We support nonprofits that help animals
- Each year, we provide over 100 nights of free or discounted boarding to local rescue and foster organizations.
- Throughout the year, we sponsor events and donate gift certificates and prizes to help non-profits further their missions.
- “Change Unleashed!,” is ongoing initiative which raises awareness and funds for a designated local pet welfare organization each quarter. See more below.
In 2021, sister businesses Downtown Dogs and Dog’s Day Out launched “Change Unleashed!” as an ongoing commitment to raise awareness and funds for pet welfare organizations in our community.
In June 2023, we opened Change Unleashed! Barktique in our lobbies. These retail spaces feature only goods that give back to people, pets or the planet. Plus we donate 3% of all merchandise sales to local pet nonprofits.
Previous Change Unleashed! partners include: Avivo, The Bond Between Pet Food Shelf (formerly People and Pets Together), Can Do Canines, Mission Animal Hospital, North Minneapolis Pet Resource Center, Pet Haven, Spot’s Last Stop, and Street Dog Coalition.
Meet our latest Change Unleashed! recipient:
From March 1 to July 1 2026, we invite our customers to join us in supporting Midwest Animal Rescue & Services (MARS).
MARS is a local, nonprofit, foster-based rescue group, committed to saving and preparing dogs and cats that are at risk and homeless, for adoption into loving forever homes. Since its founding 20 years ago, MARS has saved the lives of 25,000 dogs and cats. At any given time, MARS has nearly 100 pets in foster care waiting to be adopted — so there are a LOT of dogs and cats in need of our community’s help!
Here are four ways you can help MARS through Downtown Dogs or Dog’s Day Out:
- Round up or donate an extra $2, $5, $10 or more to MARS when you check out for daycare/boarding, bathing/grooming or retail.
- Make a purchase at our Change Unleashed! Barktique and we’ll donate 3% of sales to MARS.
- Donate pet food and new or gently used items to our MARS collection barrels.
- Volunteer, foster or adopt through MARS.
Downtown Dogs and Dog’s Day Out believe that together we can CHANGE the lives of pets in need!
Helping Dogs Find their Forever Homes
We believe every dog deserves love, unlimited belly rubs and a safe home to call their own. That’s why we’re dedicated to helping rescue dogs in need find forever homes in our Twin Cities and greater Minnesota community.
Each year, we are proud to foster more than 100 homeless dogs. We act as a foster home for several animal rescue groups that work tirelessly to help abandoned pets find loving, dedicated families.
There are almost always several foster dogs in our daycare pack, playing, learning what it’s like to feel loved and waiting to meet their forever families. Check in with us to find out which dogs are in foster care and how to contact the rescue organization about adopting.
Rescue Dog Resources
We love that families are created in different ways and with different parts. We support responsible, safe breeders but encourage new pet families to consider rescuing a wonderful pet whenever possible.
If you’re considering adoption, volunteering or becoming a temporary foster family, the Twin Cities is home to several phenomenal rescues working tirelessly to find a home for every sweet hound. Here are a few we regularly work with:
Other Partners
Caitlin Nightengale Photography
International Boarding & Pet Services Association (IBPSA)
North Minneapolis Pet Resource Center
The Bond Between Pet Food Shelf
