Happy Tails Dog Club members wearing special light glasses at the Feb. 8 meeting
The Happy Tails Dog Club welcomed fellow Robson resident and club member Karen McGraw as a guest speaker at its Feb. 8 meeting. McGraw, a dedicated volunteer for DarkSky Texas, presented “Exploring the Effects of Light Pollution on Humans, Our Dogs, and Wildlife.”
Karen explained how nearly all living organisms rely on the natural cycle of light and dark to regulate life processes. Light pollution disrupts this cycle, affecting humans, pets, and wildlife. Attendees learned about the importance of responsible lighting and how they can minimize its harmful effects while still maintaining necessary nighttime illumination.
McGraw shared the Five Principles for Responsible Outdoor Lighting:
• Useful: Use light only when necessary.
• Targeted: Direct light to where it is needed.
• Low Level: Keep brightness to a minimum.
• Controlled: Use light only when required.
• Warm-Colored: Choose warmer tones for lighting.
The presentation left attendees with a deeper understanding of how mindful lighting practices can protect the natural environment.
March 1 was a busy day for Happy Tails Dog Club, starting with the annual Robson Ranch Club Open House. Several members volunteered to staff the club’s table, including Judy Sale, Lys Olenkiewicz, Teresa McGill, Janet Pauley, Cheryl Spencer, and Melissa Crabill. Their contributions are greatly appreciated.
Later that evening, Happy Tails hosted a spring dance featuring local group Jolly Ranchers. The event served as a fundraiser for Happy Dance Dog Rescue, a local organization that rescues shelter dogs, provides necessary veterinary care, and places them in foster homes until they find permanent families.
Looking ahead to April, Happy Tails will offer a spring photo event with a garden backdrop bursting with seasonal blooms—an ideal setting for capturing special moments with furry companions. Sign-ups will be available in mid-March.
In May the club will welcome Cindy Ratliff from Dog Scouts of America’s Lone Star Pawz Squad, the largest Dog Scout troop in the nation. Dog Scouts promote responsible pet ownership, good training practices, and community involvement. Their motto, “Let us learn new things that we may become more helpful,” highlights their mission of fostering well-trained, well-behaved dogs that serve as ambassadors for responsible pet parenting.
Happy Tails Dog Club continues to provide educational programs and fun-filled activities for dog lovers in the community. With an exciting lineup of events ahead, members and their four-legged friends have much to look forward to in the coming months.