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2008 | Archived News
From the Des Moines Register:
Canine Craze offers agility training, day care
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Emotional Recover is Key to the Future Success of New Orlean's Displaced AnimalsFrom the Des Moines Register:
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Published in the Des Moines Register
June 30, 2005Dogs' Day of Summer
By Kate McGinty, Register Correspondent
Dog Jog Jamboree in WDM features activities for owners, petsRaccoon River Park was filled Saturday with canines cavorting to drill team tunes and pooches prancing through hoops as part of the second Dog Jog Jamboree.
Dog owners who took their pets to the event picked up a T-shirt, bandana and day pass to the dog park as part of a $20 registration fee. The event, sponsored by the West Des Moines Parks and Recreation Department, began last year as the kickoff activity to the nearby off-leash dog park.
"Since that has been a huge success, we're adding new dog events to give people a chance to enjoy their dogs," said Jody Bergman, the city's recreation supervisor.
Local exhibitors and businesses, including Blank Park Zoo and Hy-Vee, donated prizes and gift certificates to the event. Winners in contests for shortest and tallest dog or most agile dog won prize baskets from Three Dog Bakery, treats or dog food. Booths also advertised the Des Moines Obedience Training Club and the Animal Rescue League.
While about 80 people brought their dogs in the first year, only about three dozen dog owners joined in the festivities last weekend. Heavy morning rain and high afternoon temperatures were cited as possible factors in the low attendance.
"The weather has kind of put a cramp on our style," Bergman said.
The first event of the day was a walk around the 3.2-mile lake.
Dan Crew, 37, of West Des Moines and his son jogged the quickest mile in just over 23 minutes. Their Murphy terrier mix ran alongside them.
"We bring her out to the dog park frequently," Crew said. "We're going to stick around for a little while. We might let her try out the agility course to see how she does."
Jane Mussell, 51, of Des Moines skipped the walk but had her miniature poodle, Josie, on hand for other events. Josie jumps at the words dog park , Mussell said.
"She loves meeting other dogs," Mussell said, "and I knew there would be a T-shirt involved."
Nearby, the Canine Craze Performance Center's drill team performed with six dogs ranging from a Cavalier King Charles to a sheepdog.
The team, which performed to "Get Ready For This," demonstrated "free-style dancing with your dog," said owner Scott Jetter. "Our goal here today is to show people there are more things you can do with your dog."
The team of instructors called each animal individually, then directed the dogs to perform tricks. For the finale, one dog jumped on its hind legs while another zigzagged between the instructor's legs.
"We're trying to make a production out of it," Jetter said.
Emily Ackerman, 10, of West Des Moines held up hoops for the dogs to jump through during the performance.
"Most dog shows are serious, and this isn't," said Emily, who assists the canine center.
The canine team's appearance at the event helped the dogs practice for a performance at the pet expo Oct. 22-23. In addition to performing the "Get Ready For This" routine, the dogs will be dressed up to perform "YMCA."
Though Bergman said the poor weather forecasts may have scared participants away, the event offered some dog owners a chance to get outdoors.
"People come for their love of their pets and good exercise. It's just something fun to do," Bergman said.
