The Centerville Washington Park District has launched a new initiative with local nonprofit, Wagtown in response to elevated interest in play options for dogs. The Dayton-based nonprofit works with communities who want to create authentic and responsible dog friendliness.
America is becoming increasingly dog friendly, and the Miami Valley region is no exception. Legislative shifts are leaning toward more welcoming and humane laws, better protection for companion animals, and more freedom for businesses who want to make the most of this community booster. Both Wagtown and the Centerville Washington Park District agree that now is the right time to introduce programs that encourage better places for dogs and their owners – all with an eye on responsible dog ownership.
Three programs will be available this spring and summer as well as a service-learning certification called Wagtown Ambassador Academy. The classes will touch on a variety of topics with benefits for dogs and their owners as well as the park district:
First Aid & Dangerous Plant ID for Dog Owners
Thursday, June 20 6:00 – 7:30pm
Bill Yeck Park, Rooks Mill Entrance
Fee: $9 residents, $12 nonresidents
Dogercise: Exercise with Your Dog
Saturday, June 29 9:00 – 10:30am
Bill Yeck Park, Rooks Mill Entrance
Fee: $9 residents, $12 nonresidents
Dog Park Manners: How to be the Best Dog (and Human)
Monday, July 15 6:00 – 7:30 pm
Oak Grove Park, Noon Optimist Shelter
Fee: $9 residents, $12 nonresidents
Wagtown Ambassador Academy (and AmbassaDOG!)
Every Tuesday from June 4 to August 6 6:00 – 8:00 pm
Various locations including field trips and tours
Fee: $150, residents and nonresidents
Full information on each class and links to register are available at https://www.wagtown.org/projects-and-events.
These programs developed for dog owners provide an opportunity for pet parents to socialize their dogs, learn more about fun and safe options at the parks, and enrich their lives by strengthening the human-dog bond. “For many of us, dogs are important members of the family! The Centerville-Washington Park District is excited to find new ways for visitors to responsibly enjoy park visits with their dogs. At the same time, it is important to educate visitors about protecting wildlife, habitat, other park visitors, and the family dog. We are committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone,” remarked Arnie Biondo, Director of the Centerville-Washington Park District.
If you dig dogs, The Wagtown Ambassador Academy is a dog-lovers dream: ten weeks of wagging tails, fun, and learning. Every Tuesday from June 4 to August 6, students will learn about a diverse array of topics related to dogs – from ways to get more involved in advocacy and innovative pet activities to becoming a social media influencer and being a part of dog-friendly legislation. In addition to certification for students and their dogs, Ambassador graduates will receive an official dog vest with leash, ballcap, CWPD and Wagtown volunteer apparel, goodie bags from Pet People, and more.
An important component of the Academy is giving back to the community. Each student will volunteer for the park district and its partners over the summer and fall months with dog-related projects and programs. “The Centerville-Washington Park District is focused on expanding volunteer opportunities in 2019. Wagtown’s Ambassador Academy aligns perfectly with our goal of offering a diverse array of opportunities for people to get involved with the community,” explained Ginger Clark, Community Engagement Coordinator. The certification is limited to ten students. Those interested can get more information and apply online beginning May 13.
Park districts are just one of many that are investigating new ways to appeal to dog-loving residents. According to Wagtown research, there has been a surge in interest in programs and projects that involve dogs and their owners. Seeing the growth of the $74 billion pet industry and a record-high dog-ownership rate, community leaders are bringing innovative ideas to their residents. “Communities who are investing in dog-friendly infrastructure, legislation, and communication strategies are seeing a return on the investment. Positive outcomes that we’ve found include safer communities, healthier residents, vibrant economies, safer streets, and a jump in responsible pet ownership behavior,” stated Beth Miller, founder of Wagtown. “While dog friendliness brings many benefits to a city, it can also bring challenges. These programs are designed to address both good and not-so-good byproducts of a dog-loving society,” Miller explained.
