City of Oconomowoc – Tongues will be wagging about the dog-friendly event planned for June 23 at the Life Enrichment Center. Organizers are billing the free presentation as a “yappy hour” for dog owners.
Several professionals will be present to answer questions on dog behavior and health. Tents will be set up behind Lake Country Cafe, overlooking Lac La Belle.
“Living your best life is a goal of Life Enrichment, and what better way than to provide a haven with a scenic view where you and your best four-legged friend can come, relax together, enjoy the lake view and learn about services available to you to keep you and your pet healthy and happy – and better yet, it is free,” explained Donna Juhl, Life Enrichment Program assistant, who is organizing the event.
“Pets not only help decrease your blood pressure and lower your cholesterol, but studies have found that pet owners are more likely than people without to thrive after hospitalization, surgeries and illnesses by lowering their anxiety and decreasing feelings of loneliness and depression. They are truly our best friends,” she added.
Representatives will discuss the newest trends in dog care, health, training, boarding, grooming and supplies from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the center, 1306 W. Wisconsin Ave.
The presentation allows owners a novel evening out and the opportunity to tap into the expertise of area experts.
Explore veterinary acupuncture with Dr. Mary Ann Gedymin of Cherry Hill Vet Clinic, Barb Lembke’s Essential Oil therapies, Patty Muchka Hand-Painted Designs Pet Portraits, Willy Nilly Caricatures, Healthy Heeler Therapy Dogs, Trails To Bridges dog products, Western Waukesha Dog Training Center, new boarding and grooming center Lake Country Dog and more local resources on keeping your pet in the best health.
Juhl, an unabashed animal lover, said she has observed that businesses are becoming more dog-friendly, especially in metropolitan locations.
She hopes that local dog owners will take advantage of the outside dining opportunities at the cafe inside the Life Enrichment Center to share that experience with their canine companions.
“Since the road has been done, we see a lot of dog walkers come by,” Juhl said.
“I would love to see more people come in and enjoy outside seating with their dogs from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.; there are tables facing the lake and in front facing Wisconsin Avenue,” she added.
People can secure their dogs to the fence before coming in to order and then enjoy their meal or beverage outside.
“My dog is my best friend. I take him everywhere with me, and I wish there were more places I could take him.
“We have a perfect place for it, and we’re all about teaching people about services available to them. People can come with their dogs and relax and learn how to keep them healthy and happy,” she said of the upcoming yappy hour.
Juhl said she is not sure what to expect in terms of attendance at the presentation.
“The more the merrier. Since this is our first time hosting an event like this, we don’t know what to expect” in terms of attendance, she said. “I will be thrilled with 25.”
“Cooney dogs” beverages (wine, beer and soda) as well as a keepsake caricature of you and your pet are all available for purchase.
Remember that the dogs are not allowed in the building and should be leashed. People are asked to clean up after their dogs.
“Your pet helps you stay fit by giving unconditional love and devotion and promotes you to exercise by encouraging you to walk even when you don’t feel like it,” Juhl noted. “Getting out also increases your opportunity for socialization … Life Enrichment is the ideal place for you both to thrive.”
If you go
Who: Dog owners
What: A presentation of services and resources available for dog owners
Where: Life Enrichment Center, 1306 W. Wisconsin Ave.
When: 5:30 to 7 p.m., on Thursday, June 23
