- Karyn Stratton
A Note From The Editor :
Quite some time ago , a post went viral about an animal shelter in Indiana that rented out dogs to accompany people going on Pokémon adventures . The idea was to take advantage of the " Pokémon Go " phenomenon by raising money for a good cause . It reportedly worked so well , the shelter raised oodles of cash and began waiving adoption fees . As with much of what you come across on the internet , there ' s often some truth in what you read , but sometimes it gets distorted , or is downright false . The shelter actually did " rent " out dogs to go on walks , but it was a free program , with the goal of getting the dogs out of the shelter for a while . At any rate , it ' s certainly an idea worth considering - with or without Pokémon ! ( Not sure if that ' s still a thing ?) The Humane Society of Harrisburg has a program called " Shelter Skip Days ." Volunteers are thoroughly screened , then allowed to borrow a dog to take on an adventure for an hour or a whole day . The program is a huge win-win ... shelter dogs benefit greatly from time away from their kennels , and people get to enjoy canine company for a period of time , which could result in adoptions . Studies show that dogs that go on field trips are five times more likely to get adopted , as they are more content and socialized . Suggestions for adventures include hiking , walking trails , parks , or going for ice cream and a puppuccino ! While the details of the Indiana shelter ' s " Pokémon Go " dog walking program were exaggerated to boost a Facebook post , it does show how the power of creative thinking can improve the lives of animals . Social media is a huge opportunity to share the joys of owning a pet . The Harrisburg Humane Society posted fun photos on their page of people having adventures with their " borrowed " pups . That generated interest among the public to seek out those specific dogs at their facility . Do you have a novel idea that could raise awareness , increase adoptions , or generate funds for animals in need ? Creative marketing skills are always appreciated ! Please consider sharing them with area rescues and shelters to help make a difference in the lives of homeless pets .
- Karyn Stratton
In This Issue :
Pet Calendar of Events ........................................... page 2 Upcoming Pet Events ............................................. page 3 Around the Hydrant : News You Can Use ............ page 4 Trap / Neuter / Release Program .............................. page 4 One Is The Loneliest Number ............................... page 5 Rescue Spotlight : Find Toby In PA ...................... page 6 Breed All About It - The Dachshund ................... page 7 Cute & Crazy Critters ............................................ page 8 Health Highlights : Heatstroke in Dogs ............... page 9 Adoption : A Loving Option .................................. pages 10 , 11 Pawsitively Delicious ............................................. page 12 Ask the Groomer - Shedding ................................ page 13 Win a Kong Cozy Dog Toy .................................... page 13 Subscriptions - Let Us Fetch Your Next Copy ..... page 15
On our cover :
" Moose & Hali "
Thanks to
Felicia Znajda of Alexandria , MN for providing us with their photo !
Pawsitively Pets -- July
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