A Kenneling Alternative

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October Is Adopt A Shelter Dog Month

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While I believe that every month is Adopt A Shelter Dog month, apparently the month of October is its official celebration. You might also hear it referred to as Adopt A Dog Month.
 
There are numerous ways to celebrate the month, but let’s take some ideas from the Humane Society of Charlotte. They have 5 great ways to celebrate, but I’m sure that we can come up with even more!
  • Mental health. Many of us were finding our limits tested during the lockdowns of the pandemic. If you didn’t bring a pandemic puppy into your home, you could open up your home to a pet and reap the benefits of stress reduction and see both your pet and your blood pressure decrease just by petting them! It’s true.
  • Exercise. Walking a dog can get you outside more often. It also gets you moving and that is not only good for your weight, but your emotional health as well. And a dog that gets plenty of walk and sniff time is a healthy family member.
  • Dog people. It is a thing! You’ll meet people on your walks with their pets and could very well strike up a new friendship. Another benefit of adoption.
  • Unconditional love. No question, the adage that a dog is the only thing that loves you more than itself is true. And that kind of love will change your world. Doubt it? Try it out and see.
  • Saving lives. Without a doubt, bringing a pet into your home not only saves that pet’s life, but opens up slots for other dogs that might not survive in some shelters. While many have moved to a no-kill philosophy, that isn’t the case for all facilities.
With all the benefits of having a canine companion, we encourage you to consider your local rescue or shelter when picking out a new pet. The experience will be life-altering for all involved. What other ways can you think of that celebrates pet adoption?

Take A Walk In the Park Day Is March 30th

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March 30th is designated as Take A Walk In the Park Day! We can’t think of a better way to spend your outdoor saunter than by checking out a nearby park.

When we walk our dogs, we often stick to the same routes, the same times, and sometimes are so thoroughly in a routine that we don’t notice all the things around us. Even our dogs can get in a rut and refuse to budge from a pre-determined route.

But on March 30th, or any day really, you can mix things up. Pack up your pet and venture over to a tree-filled park or wooded area and take an adventure. You get the benefits of being fully present (consider turning off the phone or at least setting it on silent) and allow your dog to engage all of their olfactory cells. 

The benefits are two fold. You get the proven scientific benefits of being immersed in a tree-filled location. In as little as 20-30 minutes this can decease your blood pressure (and likely your stress levels). Your pet will be exercising their noses and their legs and probably will be pretty tuckered out when you return home. Who doesn’t love a tired pet?

Maybe you’ll discover a new favorite location for your walks on a summer evening or weekend. Maybe you’ll meet a new friend, canine or human. Either way, let March 30th be an opportunity to try out a new park and see if you feel better after a good walk there! Let us know how it goes.