I just love this post. I have had several foster dogs years ago and have adopted shelter dogs for years. I have had my chiweenie for almost 11 years from a shelter. He is just a little guy but is my hiking partner. He can easily do 16 miles with me. He makes a great sleeping bag warmer as well! If you aren't in a position to adopt or foster you can even find local groups that need youth come and walk or socialize a pup. If you love the outdoors or hiking and backpacking try contacting a local rescue or shelter and see if they have any dogs that have energy to burn. They may even know of people who don't want to give up a pup but cant currently walk or play with it do to illness or injury. One of the biggest reasons I see people give up their dogs is because they "don't have the time" or the dog "needs more exercise then we can give it" What a great way to get exercise and help an animal! GREAT POST. Thanks for putting this info out there!