August 31, 2015 at 4:21 p.m.
Dog lovers support Pawzitive Outdoor Games and Bark for Life
Dog lovers support Pawzitive Outdoor Games and Bark for Life
By Kayla Thomason-
Carol Lofquist, owner of TLC Dog Training and co-sponsor of the Pawzitive Outdoor Games, was pleased with both the turnout and the weather.
"It's just a great day today, everyone is just having fun enjoying family and their dogs," said Lofquist.
Over 50 dogs participated in the agility portion of the event before noon, breaking last year's total in half the time.
"It's just nice to see people relaxed and having fun (with their) family and animals - we don't get that opportunity too often - and it also helps raise money for the non-profit organizations we have here today," she said.
Jaynne Jacobus and her 6-month-old blue heeler/border collie mix, Lucy, had a grand time at their first Pawzitive Outdoor Games.
"I like the energy and it's a nice opportunity to get my dog to interact with other dogs," Jacobus said.
"I think (the Pawzitive Outdoor Games and Bark for Life are) fantastic. The Rhinelander community is small and there's not a lot of places to take our pets to, so it's nice that this is an area we can all get together and do fun, interesting things with our pets."
Dan Gallagher, owner of Pawz n' Clawz and co-sponsor of the Pawzitive Outdoor Games, said there was a lot of participation in the Fastest Dog in the Northwoods contest. He estimated the number of dogs competing in the event was double last year's competition.
"People are excited about trying to win a year's worth of dog food and supporting the humane societies," Gallagher said.
Jim Daffara said he and his Dutch shepherd, Tim, enjoyed all the socialization.
This was their first time at the Pawzitive Outdoor Games and Tim let loose during the fastest dog competition. He ran 28 mph, making him one of the racers to beat in the larger dog category.
"It's interesting, it's fun, it's a lot of fun and it's a good cause," Daffara said.
If soaring over jumps, racing against the Rhinelander Police Department's speed sign, or diving into water was not a dog's forte, they could enjoy a leisurely stroll at Bark for Life portion of the event.
Gallagher said he thought Bark for Life was a great lead-in to the Pawzitive Outdoor Games.
Those who participated in the walk got a T-shirt and their dog(s) received a purple bandana.
People could also purchase tulip-shaped solar lights with bone-shaped tags to write a message or someone's name.
"I think this year is going really well," said Diane Geis-Hapka, community manager for the American Cancer Society. "Before the event we were over ($7,000) raised."
The goal is to raise $10,000 by the end of the year.
Bark for Life had 30 people preregister, some with multiple dogs.
"Definitely partnering with the Pawzitive Games is a positive for us," Geis-Hapka said.
Lofquist agreed the partnership was beneficial to both events.
"I think Bark for Life went well this morning with the pastor blessing animals, that was a hit, that was really cool to see all the animals get blessed," Lofquist said.
Reverend Ann Wahl blessed approximately 40 beloved pets.
"Just looking around at all the people that are here today we can see that the Northwoods of Wisconsin is definitely a dog community of people," Geis-Hapka said.
She said she was thrilled to see dogs of all sizes getting along, many greeting with a friendly sniff or chilling with their owners in the shade.
"We're just grateful for all the community support we are getting," she said.
Dave McElroy and his golden retriever, Pacer, enjoyed the upbeat atmosphere. This was their first time participating in Bark for Life.
"I think it's a good idea (to have these events)," McElroy said. "Everybody loves dogs and they all seem to be getting along."
The Pawzitive Outdoor Games benefited It Matters to One Animal Rescue and humane societies in Langlade, Forest and Vilas counties while celebrating Pawz n' Clawz's second year in business.
Donations to Bark for Life can be made at relayforlife.org/barknorthwoodswi. Donations can also be mailed to P.O. Box 902 Pewaukee, WI 53072. Address your mailing to Bark Northwoods WI.
Geis-Hapka thanked sponsors Ministry Health Care, Northern Paws Animal Hospital, TLC Dog Training and Shylo Star Kennels.
The sponsors for the Pawzitive Outdoor Games included Ripco Credit Union, Rhinelander Honda, Invisible Fence, Lakeside Dock and Lift, and the Northwoods Animal Hospital.
Other sponsors include the Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport, the Northwoods River News, Newswatch 12, Coyote 93.7, AP Photography, Pawz n' Clawz and TLC Dog Training.
Kayla Breese may be reached at [email protected].
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