Local animal hospital, Family Pet Health, in partnership with Wag It Better Dog Training, has announced a free dog-walking program for area residents to encourage a healthier and stronger bond between dog and owner.
Family Pet Health owner Michael Shirley says the idea for the event was inspired by the Rutherford County Library System's Summer Reading Program:
This free program is open to all ages of humans and dogs and will begin May 1st and run through June 30th. Shirley has worked with local businesses to provide prizes that will be given away throughout the program:
Heather Moore from Wag It Better Dog Training will be providing free training advice online for participants:
To learn more or register for Walk My Dog, visit www.familypethealth.com/walkmydog.
MORE INFORMATION:
Fear, anxiety and stress for humans and pets alike are at an all-time high. Getting outdoors and walking your dog decreases anxiety and stress and reinforces a positive relationship with your dog - all while social distancing. Studies have shown that people who have a training partner are more likely to stay motivated and fit. That is especially true if your training buddy is your dog.
The Walk My Dog program is open to all ages of humans and dogs, and there is no cost to register. There will be divisions for elementary, secondary school, adults and seniors. There will also be divisions for dogs based upon size. You can learn more about the rules on the registration page at www.familypethealth.com/walkmydog.
Wag It Better Dog Training will be providing free training advice for participants through online resources and webinars. Topics include selecting proper gear, training your dog to walk without pulling the leash, dog-walking safety tips and more.
Each week, there will be a prize awarded for best social media post using the hashtag #walkmydog. There will also be prizes for all participants who meet mileage goals of 15, 30, 50 and 75 miles during the program. Overall prizes will be awarded at the Walk My Dog celebration on July 18.
Family Pet Health is located at 3307 Manchester Pike in Murfreesboro. The practice, owned by Dr. Amy Shirley and her husband Michael, is a small and exotics animal veterinary hospital. They provide a full range of veterinary services including exams and vaccinations, lab work and diagnostics, surgeries and referral services. All of their staff members are Fear Free certified and have undergone extensive training on recognizing and reducing signs of fear, anxiety and stress in their patients. Learn more at www.familypethealth.com.
