A cross-country running team from California is getting in shape and while they’re at it, they decided to help shelter dogs get a taste of the outdoors. Of course, nobody wants to stay cooped up indoors on a nice summer day – especially not shelter animals who also need some exercise and physical exertion. Luckily for these pent-up pups, they found just the people to get them out and to move. This group of adoptable dogs from the Santa Barbara County Animal Shelter had a great day out with the Cross-Country Team from St. Joseph High School.

The young team of cross-country runners decided that it would be fun to invite them to join their morning workout. As each runner was paired up with a dog before starting a miles-long run, they not only ran to get fit but also to give the pups some much need fresh air and physical activity. The big group of runners look unstoppable as they stampeded off, and for everyone in the audience watching from the side, it was just as fun to see them enjoying themselves on their outdoor run in the sun! This program was initiated two years ago when the shelter’s spokeswoman saw the high school team running by her shelter. “Geographically, we’re very close,” she said in an interview. “So I thought, ‘Why aren’t they running our dogs?’” She connected with St. Joseph’s coach Luis Escobar. He is an “outgoing, yes guy,” Silva said, and it was a perfect combination,” she said.

Luis Escobar, the team’s coach, wrote on his Facebook page, “I am not sure who was more excited and having the most fun, the dogs or the kids. Either way, it was a great time, and I am sure we will do it again sometime soon.” What a great idea, this is a perfect example of how people can make a difference, all it takes is a little effort and what it does for these dogs is just beautiful to see.