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life challenges, including the death of their
dogs. “We watch the dogs like parents
watch kids at a park. If we think a dog isn’t
feeling well or might be starting something,
we make sure we tell their owner.” Often
friendships extend beyond the dog park.
Kathi Pinkston (N16) recently stopped by
the dog park to catch up with friends she
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three years ago. Although her poodle, Boo
Radley, has an orthopedic condition that
keeps him from the dog park these days,
Kathi still values the friendships she made.
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at the dog park.”
At a recent “Yappy Hour” sponsored by
Renee and Gene Jantzen (N43) of Century
21 Real Estate, Paw Lofts and the Sun City
Pet Club, Virginia Weems (N7) brought
her nine-month-old toy Schnauzer Oreo
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had previously completed a Sun City Pet
Club’s training class and thought Oreo
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dogs. For Larry Babb (N56) and his Old
English Sheepdog Mats, the outing was
as important to Larry as it was to Mats.
Larry had recently suffered a stroke and
hadn’t been to the dog park in a long time.
He missed the fellowship at the park and
missed seeing Mats enjoying himself.
Exercise and social interaction are as
important to a dog’s well-being and
longevity as it is to their owner. If you have
a dog and haven’t already checked out the
dog park, give it a try. You never know,
while you walk “man’s best friend,” you
just might meet your human best friend!

The dog park gives dogs a chance to
spend time off their leashes, socializing
with other dogs and sometimes other
people!

38 | SUNRAYS AUGUST 2017