Here's an article about a "shared dog ownership" concern (they don't like the "rental" terminology, and I understand why) that lets people subscribe to spend time with a dog when they can.

I think it's a GREAT idea for two reasons! First, people who get to spend time with dogs are just happier, and I'm all for happiness. Second, it raises in a very concrete manner that there's a difference between wanting a dog and being able to take good care of one, and could make a dent in the adopt-oops-return cycle.

Love, Columbine