Have you gone north on Riverside on Saturday mornings and noticed a large parade of pooches on the trail by the river? This is the weekly dog walk that leaves from the medical clinic (75th Avenue and Second Street) at 10 a.m., rain or shine.
Originally started several years ago by local dog trainer Kathy Novokshonoff as a means for her students to better socialize their dogs, the walks are now a regular, free, Saturday morning event open to anyone with a well-mannered canine companion.
Last weekend`s walk saw about a dozen dogs, from miniature schnauzers to massive mastiffs and everything in between. The two-legged walkers are an equally diverse group of various ages and gender.
The walk generally splits into subgroups of similar walking pace.
When asked, the consensus of the group was that it is a great way for both owners and dogs to get some exercise and a good opportunity to just socialize with others.
The walks generally last about one hour, and anyone with a friendly dog is welcome. For the safety of the dogs (and to abide bylaws), leashes are required and, of course, responsible owners will pick up any dog waste (bag dispensers and trash cans are located on the trail).
For more information on the walks, please phone Kathy at 250-442-2653.