Leash up
Each month, the Trail Blazers program goes big when McKamey partners with Front Runner Athletics.On March 25, they are again joining forces. The monthly event takes runners and 20 to 25 dogs out to Greenway Farms for a day of exercise for both man and beast.“It gets people outside a little bit longer,” says Laryssa Martinovich, Front Runner marketing coordinator. “Because they’re taking out a dog, some people who wouldn’t have otherwise gone for a walk or run themselves are more likely to go, because they’re not just benefiting themselves.”Upcoming Event DatesMarch 25, 9 a.m.April 1, 9 a.m.May 6, 9 a.m.
New dog, new tricks
When running with dogs, remember to:» Ease them into running. Just like humans, they need to be conditioned to run longer distances. Start by jogging for 5 to 10 minutes.» Take frequent water breaks.Since dogs don’t sweat, you’ll need to check for signs of overheating, like excessive panting. Avoid running with short-muzzled dogs, like boxers and bulldogs, who are unable to cool themselves as quickly.» Make sure your dog can walk on a leash. If s/he is in front of you and pulling, make the leash shorter, maybe 2 to 3 feet, to keep him or her at your side.
Most animal-lovers can list all the benefits that come with running alongside their four-legged friends – motivation, protection, company – but it’s easy to forget how beneficial a quick jog can be for the dogs. Especially dogs like Hua.
A lovable mutt with seemingly limitless energy, Hua had been at McKamey Animal Center for nine months, which, in dog years, is practically forever, says Jamie McAloon, executive director of the nonprofit shelter.
The problem was that Hua, like many of the other 200-plus dogs at the kennel, was too hyper. He jumped all over the place, shook his cage, and as a result, potential adopters were afraid to go near him.