On Saturday, dozens of dogs attended the Boyertown Dog Days of August. We had a break in the oppressive heat, and dogs and their owners took advantage of the pleasant weather to meet vendors and enjoy exhibits. One of the presenters was Karen Douglass who demonstrated how to perform a “Snout-to-Tail Assessment” on your dog. By demonstrating on her lovely and beautifully behaved TIA, the Therapy and First Aid dog,

TIA the First Aid Dog and Karen Douglass

Karen demonstrated how pet owners can take a minute or two daily and keep their pet healthy and happy. By performing this examination consistently, you have the opportunity to find a problem in early stages or onset. It is financially and emotionally beneficial to prevent a problem rather than treat it. Additionally, there is a bonding between you and your dog that takes place during this very calming and relaxing process. Your dog will learn to trust what you do. For more information about the Snout-to-Tail Assessment or PetTech First Aid & Care for Your Pets, see www.PetTech.net. Or contact Karen at  http://allcreatures.net. Karen is a fellow pet sitter and friend who is the Montgomery County MCART Coordinator. Her record of service to the community is inspiring.

Karen also spoke about MCART – the Montgomery County Animal Rescue Team. MCART is part of a network of organizations, businesses, government agencies, and individuals that supports the prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery of animals during emergencies. MCART goals include:

Facilitating rapid, coordinated, and effective response to any emergency affecting animals,

Decreasing the health and safety threat to humans and animals during emergencies,

Minimizing the economic impact of emergencies affecting animals, and

Preventing or decreasing the spread of disease during emergencies.

If you are interested in learning more about animal issues during emergencies, or would like to donate your time or resources, take a look at http://sart.cas.psu.edu/COUNTIES/Montgomery.

These two presentations were just a few of the fun and interesting activities taking place at Dog Days.

I know there are treats in here!

Sharon Rollins of Fuzzy Days Grooming

Also present were team members of the American Cancer Society’s Bark for Life.

Bark for Life is a noncompetitive walk event for dogs and their owners to raise funds and awareness for the American Cancer Society’s fight against cancer. A Bark for Life event will take place at Frederick Mennonite Community on Saturday, September 25th from 10am – 3pm. Activities will include:

Meet Therapy Dogs

Canine Good Citizenship Tests

Meet Bark for Life 2011 Calendar Dogs!

Doggie Wash and Dip (weather permitting)

Come out with your best friend and join the fun!

For more information about Bark for Life, see www.relayforlife.org/barkpapottstown.

For more information about anything in this post, please contact Tara at info@TarasPetsitting.com.