Introduction
On Sunday, 30th June, from 6:30 AM to 7:30 AM, the vibrant community of dog lovers gathered in Undri, Pune, for a highly anticipated walk session.
This event, organized by Sunny Luthra of OhMyDog Rocks, aimed to bring together dog parents and their furry friends for a fun and educational experience while supporting the Animal Vatika NGO in Raipur.
The session attracted an enthusiastic crowd, providing an excellent opportunity for socialization, exercise, and learning.
The Event Details
Walk Session Highlights
The event was designed to accommodate 20 dogs, but the overwhelming response led to a slight increase in participants. Here are the key highlights:
- Date and Time: Sunday, 30th June, 6:30 AM – 7:30 AM
- Location: Undri, Pune
- Organizer: Sunny Luthra from OhMyDog Rocks
- Beneficiary: Animal Vatika NGO, Raipur
Preparation and Guidelines
In the days leading up to the event, Sunny Luthra and the Happy Fulfilled Dogs community actively engaged with participants to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Some of the crucial guidelines shared included:
- Safety Measures: All dogs were required to be on a leash, and aggressive dogs needed to wear muzzles. Participants were advised to maintain a safe distance from other dogs and humans.
- Essentials to Carry: Participants were reminded to wear tracking shoes for good grip, carry water bottles for themselves and their dogs, and bring raincoats in case of unexpected showers.
- No Touch, No Talk, No Eye Contact: This rule was emphasized to prevent any undue stress or excitement among the dogs.
The Event Unfolds
Early Morning Gathering
As dawn broke on the 30th of June, dog parents and their furry companions began arriving at the designated location in Undri, Pune. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation and excitement. Despite a brief drizzle in some areas, the spirits remained high.
Engagement and Support
Sunny Luthra, along with the Happy Fulfilled Dogs team, was actively involved in addressing participants’ concerns and queries. From helping with harnesses and collars to managing reactive dogs, the team ensured everyone felt supported.
Walk and Socialization
The walk session began promptly at 6:30 AM. Participants followed the mapped route, enjoying the serene surroundings of Undri. Dogs and their parents walked in a harmonious group, fostering a sense of community. The event provided an excellent opportunity for dogs to socialize, learn to walk calmly in a group, and interact with new canine friends.
Participants and Their Dogs
The event saw a diverse group of dogs and their parents. Some of the participants included:
- Prasad Mahajan with Blue
- Sonali Polekar with Stella
- Pratik Goswami with Jax
- Shailly Srivastava with Diesel
- Konika Sharma with Choco
Challenges and Overcoming Them
Handling Reactive Dogs
Working with reactive dogs is an integral part of our events at OhMyDog Rocks. Many participants have dogs that exhibit reactivity, whether it’s aggression, fear, or overexcitement when encountering other dogs.
Our team, led by Sunny Luthra, provides expert guidance to help parents manage these behaviors. During the walk sessions, we focus on maintaining a calm environment, encouraging parents to keep a safe distance from other dogs, and offering techniques to redirect their dog’s attention.
Our goal is to create a supportive community where every dog and parent feels safe and empowered to participate.
Navigating the Route
Despite some participants facing challenges with navigation due to Google Maps, the event saw a great turnout. Those who arrived late or faced difficulties were welcomed warmly and provided with the necessary support.
Positive Feedback and Future Events
The event concluded with participants expressing their gratitude and appreciation for the well-organized session. Comments from the community included:
- “Thanks for the wonderful session and guidance.”
- “Looking forward to more such events.”
- “It was indeed informative.”
Fundraising for Animal Vatika NGO
A significant aspect of the event was its purpose as a free fundraising initiative for Animal Vatika NGO. Participants were encouraged to donate generously to support the NGO’s efforts in caring for animals. The response was heartwarming, with several donations being made on the spot.
FAQs
What is the purpose of the walk session?
The walk session aims to provide a platform for dog parents to socialize, learn about handling their pets, and support a charitable cause.
How can I participate in future events?
Keep an eye on announcements from OhMyDog Rocks and join their community for updates on upcoming events.
Are there any specific requirements for participation?
Dogs must be on a leash, and parents should carry essentials like water bottles and raincoats. Aggressive dogs may need muzzles for safety.
Can I bring my family along?
Yes, families are welcome to join the event and enjoy the experience together.
What if my dog is reactive?
The event team provides personalized support and advice on managing reactive dogs during the walk.
How do I donate to Animal Vatika NGO?
Donations can be made through the QR code shared during the event or directly via the NGO’s official channels.
Conclusion
The walk session on 30th June was a resounding success, bringing together a community of dog lovers for a noble cause. The event not only provided a platform for dogs and their parents to bond and learn but also supported the impactful work of Animal Vatika NGO. Sunny Luthra and the OhMyDog Rocks team look forward to hosting more such events in the future, fostering a stronger, more connected community of dog enthusiasts.
