Lorraine Wilson
The Happy Tails Dog Club continues to build momentum in 2026, welcoming new members, hosting educational speakers, and supporting animal welfare efforts throughout Denton County.
The club was well represented at the annual Club Open House on Feb. 7 where members Joan Pursley, Char Niemi, Patti Smith, Janet Pauley, and Lorraine Wilson staffed the Happy Tails information table for three hours. The volunteers greeted dozens of new residents, answered questions about the club’s activities, and shared their enthusiasm for our club.
Seven new residents joined during the event: Linda Andersen, Kathy Chisholm, Audrey Demmitt, Terri Bennett, Diana Huron, Kim Baucher, and Larry Blumenfeld. Club leaders extend a warm welcome to the new members and encourage other dog lovers to attend an upcoming meeting.
On Feb. 14 members were treated to an eye-opening presentation about coyotes. Guest speakers Karin and Roberto Saucedo of Song Dog Watch shared insights and shattered myths during their presentation. They also offered practical guidance on how residents can safely and respectfully coexist with coyotes, along with emphasizing awareness, prevention, and understanding rather than fear. For further information, please visit our website at www.rrhappytailsdogclub.weebly.com.
The educational programs will continue on March 14 when retired veterinarian and fellow Robson resident Steve Menzies, DVM, will present “Ask Your Vet.” The open forum will allow members to ask questions about our pets.
April marks one of the club’s signature service projects: the 4th Annual Pet Food Drive. In partnership with the Denton Animal Support Foundation (DASF), donations will benefit several area programs, including the Pet Food Pantry at the Linda McNatt/City of Denton Animal Shelter, Our Daily Bread, SPAN Meals on Wheels Senior Paws, and the Denton Veterans Association. These programs provide temporary assistance to individuals and families facing income insecurity so they can continue caring for their pets. Last year, the Robson Ranch community donated an impressive 3,526 pounds of pet food, a level of support the club hopes to match or exceed this year.
At the April 11 meeting, guest speaker Elizabeth Test, executive director of Happy Pet Project, will discuss their rescue, rehabilitation, and adoption efforts across Texas. The foster-based, all-breed rescue works with municipal shelters to reduce overpopulation while promoting responsible pet ownership.
On May 9 Robson Ranch resident Deborah Diehl will share highlights from the 150th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show held in New York earlier this year, which featured more than 3,000 champion dogs. Her presentation will offer a behind-the-scenes look at one of the nation’s most prestigious canine events.
In June, Jenny Dirks, Shelter to Service Program Manager for Dogs for Better Lives, will speak about professionally training dogs to assist people in need and the organization’s lifelong commitment to both dogs and the individuals they serve.
The Happy Tails Dog Club meets on the second Saturday of each month at 10:30 a.m. in Room 103 of the CATC building. Membership is open to all dog lovers, with annual dues of $10 per household. More information is available at www.rrhappytailsdogclub.weebly.com.