It was the nicest day of summer. That is what Dick Goddard, Channel 8 weather Guru and all time ‘Olympic’ supporter of the APL and all things good for our four legged friends, forecasted on Friday’s Goddard’s Dogs.
True to Dick Goddard’s word, Sunday, August 7, was the nicest day of summer. Temperatures were not too high, low humidity, nice breeze and lots and lots of pets with people were having a great time at the eleventh annual Pet Carnival on the North Royalton City Green. Some folks traveled from Akron and Canton.
The 11th annual Pet Carnival has been sponsored by Dr. Adam Hechko and the North Royalton Animal Hospital, the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) practice of the year for 2015. Dr. Hechko, his family, and staff believe that our pets are family members. What better way to enjoy family than at a carnival.
Pets brought their people to enjoy the day. There was a bounce house for kids, police K-9 unit, crafts, games for kids, and a petting zoo. There was a pet picture center for portraits with your pet. There was also plenty of meeting and greeting between pets.
The APL mobile unit introduced some pups looking for their forever homes. If you didn’t see your best friend there, the APL Animal Shelter, Sweet Valley Drive in Valley View, can help you find your best buddy.
Paws at Play Pet Resort offered a doggie ice cream social. Pet healthy cool treats were available for $2. Yum, Arf, Woof!
Royalton Animal Hospital staff, Dr. Emily Roach, Dr. Lisa Schwan, and Dr. Josephine Bryk-Rose, were there to say hello and answer questions. Many other staff members assisted with doggie treats and the agility course.
Physical agility is very important to your pets’ health. Aukerman Park on York Road just north of the Valley Parkway, is a Metropark on-leash pet-friendly park with mowed natural pathways, water sources, a picnic pavilion, restrooms, benches, and great agility course. The agility equipment was donated by Dr. Hechko, and the North Royalton Animal Hospital because agility is important for your dog’s body as well as alertness for his mind. Aukerman Park is great place to walk, bird watch, and have fun with your dog all year.
Pets greeted each other as they strolled with their people through the tent where there were lots of vendors with services and accessories for canine and feline friends. There were raffle baskets and many prizes. The 3 Spot offered people-favorite food for a small donation. All proceeds went to the Animal Protective League (APL), Molly’s Mission; Give Pets a Chance, and W.A.G.S.4Kids; an organization that provides service dogs for children with special needs.
If you missed this great pet outing this year, put it on your calendar now for next year. The Annual Pet Carnival is sponsored by Dr. Adam Hechko, and the staff of the 2015 AAHA accredited practice of the year, North Royalton Animal Hospital, and Paws at Play Resort and Day Care, located at 9027 Ridge Road, North Royalton Ohio (440-237-7691) www.northroyaltonanimalhospital.com

By LINDA KWARCIANY
Contributing Writer