STORY AND PHOTO BY KAREN BOSSICK

The Animal Shelter of the Wood River Valley is kicking off another year of its Hikin’ Buddies program.

Wanna-be dog walkers are invited to meet at the Adam’s Gulch trailhead in Ketchum from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesdays throughout the summer, weather permitting.

Walkers can take a shelter dog for a hike or hang out and play with some of the smaller dogs and puppies.

It’s a good way to socialize the dogs. And if you fall in love, adoption counselors will be on site to help you with the adoption process so you can take your new friend home right away.

Volunteers are also invited to walk shelter pets around downtown Ketchum during the weekly Paws Around town from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Saturdays through the summer beginning June 23. The gig helps shelter animals learn to be comfortable with new people and practice basic obedience skills and manners so they will be more adoptable.

For information, call 208-788-4351 or visit www.animalshelterwrv.org.

TO GET TO ADAM’S GULCH:

Take Highway 75 north through the city of Ketchum. Turn left onto Adam’s Gulch Road opposite the Bigwood Golf Course. Follow the road as it winds toward the hill. Go left at the T in the road and follow the road to the parking lot and the Animal Shelter tent and van.