With all the hype about eating right and exercise, people are starting to give more thought to their health. Since we are going to take the time to get healthier, then why not take the time to make sure our dogs’ health is in good order? Our pets’ physical welfare is as important as our own.
One way we can ensure our dogs get good exercise is by walking them. Many pet parents are already out and about, so take the next step and put together a “Dog Walk Fundraiser”. Encourage all pet lovers to join in and become aware of the need to exercise their pets daily. This will help to educate them about the health and exercise needs of their beloved furry friends.
Start by approaching City Hall and asking if it would be okay to hold the fundraiser around town. Inquire about permits and what laws there are regarding leashing and cleaning up after your pet. You want to keep it green! Then set a date that will work well for your city/town. You want the best participation you can have.
Get the local pet stores involved. Have them provide pamphlets or brochures about maintaining good health for their pets. You can have them set up donations; cans, bags and boxes of food and grooming products that will go towards making sure the animals around your town or city are taken care of. Let the humane society know you are holding the event, and see if they have a rep available to participate with a shelter dog to raise awareness as well.
Local newspaper offices, merchandisers, fast food eateries, and businesses may be willing to donate everything needed to have a successful fundraiser. Be sure to advertise their participation and acknowledge all their donations if they do.
If the city or town has a local park you can start the event there and end it there. Set up refreshments stands for pet owners and their pets. Make it a day of fun and education. If you live in a very small town, you might be able to get the city to cordon off a route for the pet walkathon!
Perhaps you can have pet owners tell how they acquired their pets and what they’ve done to ensure their dogs stay well and happy. Have a guest speaker from the ASPCA, Vet Hospital, or Pet store give a speech about good health habits for pets.
Ways to make this fundraiser a financial success is to have local businesses and pet owners sponsor each pet’s walk. You can also sell tickets for a raffle of a free spay or neuter from a local vet, or an extra nice ‘dog habitat’ for the lucky winners back yard! Even have sales of dog colars, harnesses and even specialty food brands (donated by local pet stores – they will welcome the chance to try and swing people towards switching to a higher priced brand!)
