Wednesday, September 30, 2009

IndyDog SmartTails Dog Scout Troop #177


Did you know we have a Dog Scout of America troop at the Indianapolis Indiana center? Dog Scouts of America is like the Boy or Girls Scouts only we do it with the dogs. Started in December of 2007 by center Trainer Kristi Rush it has grown to 77 members. With this, the troop has worked on a variety of badges to be earned by the dogs themselves. A few of our troop members have earned several badges already. Once the dogs pass the DSA test, they are qualified Dog Scout members, thus earning their red vest for the patches to be sewn on. Best Friends does not charge a fee to become a Dog Scout member (not for the owners or the pets) but there is a fee to the non-profit Dog Scout organization.

Dog Scouts is a way of meeting other dog lovers, training with and working toward common goals with other owners. We not only teach new and wonderful things to our dogs, but the owners learn to become responsible pet owners as well. If you would like to join or want more information you can call the center (317-841-8182) or look for our Dog Scout 'meetup group' page for information on each months meetings or additional group outings.

Our grand slam finale for the year is a group overnight camping and canoe (or kayak, your preference) with the troop members. This September we went to the Timberline Family Campground in Anderson Indiana. Even though it turned out to be a rainy start, several members braved the gloom. On Saturday the weather cleared and we worked on the different swimming and water badges. A few also earned their canoe or kayak badges.

The meeting for October has been moved to the last Saturday of the month so that we can do our own version of a howl-a-ween spooktacular party. there will be treats, testing, games and of course it wouldn't be complete without a costume 'contest'.

It's not just all for training testing and learning! We know how to have fun and keep our dogs busy in the process! Everyone has a great time so keep our troop in mind the next time you are wondering what you can do to keep Fido busy and out of trouble. Or maybe a way to work with them and get them in better shape. Or just because!

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