Therapy Dogs of Vermont’s Annual “Bark-Be-Que” Has Tongues & Tails Wagging

PR Log (Press Release) – Jun 19, 2009 – The dog days of summer came a little early this year, to the delight of several area dogs and their humans. Therapy Dogs of Vermont (TDV) held their annual “Bark-Be-Que” on Saturday, June 6th, giving TDV board members, volunteers, and other guests the opportunity to celebrate a successful year by getting together for some good old fashioned fun in the sun. The furry festivities, which included a BBQ, prizes and lots of playtime, attracted over 40 dogs and their handlers from VT, NH, and Canada, for a total of nearly 75 guests. Special guest speaker, Dr. Nate Heilman of the Qi Veterinary Clinic in South Burlington, gave an informational talk on “Summer Safety with Your Pets.” The event also gave TDV’s board of directors a fun forum to discuss the work of the past year, including the implementation of several new marketing initiatives, fundraising progress, and the success of the organization’s puppy classes.

Ending the day with a splash, the dogs plunged into the pond and enjoyed a refreshing swim with their canine pals. “The day was amazing, and provided a rare opportunity for TDV members and their dogs from all over to get together. It was great to see members from as far away as Canada” said Starr Jewell of South Burlington. Starr serves on the board of directors for TDV, as well as volunteers with her Bernese Mountain Dog, Cassie.
                                                   
Therapy Dogs of Vermont is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization of well-mannered, sweet-tempered, people-loving dogs and their handlers. The dogs and their handlers visit kids in hospitals, elders in nursing or retirement homes, and others in need so they can all enjoy the benefits of a little unconditional, four-legged love, which has been shown to improve the mental and physical well-being of humans of all ages. Therapy Dogs of Vermont provides canine companionship services in Vermont, New Hampshire, and some areas of Canada. To learn more about the organization and its services, visit www.TherapyDogs.org.

Visit our Facebook page and become a fan of Therapy Dogs of Vermont!