The Happy Tails Dog Club is closing out 2024 on a high note, wrapping up the year with two exciting events and planning ahead for an even bigger 2025. On Nov. 2 the club held its annual holiday mini-photo sessions, which proved to be a resounding success. All time slots were booked in advance, with several walk-ins also taking part in the event. The mini-photo sessions serve as a fundraiser for the club, and this year’s turnout surpassed expectations, helping to raise valuable funds to support future activities.
The next event on the club’s calendar is the highly anticipated Happy Tails Holiday Party set for Saturday, Dec. 14. Held at a private residence in the Ranch, the Holiday Party has become a favorite tradition among club members. It is the perfect opportunity to socialize, swap stories about beloved pets, and take part in a fun “White Dog” gift exchange. Despite the name, no actual dogs are exchanged, though the event is certainly centered around them! Instead, members participate in a competitive yet lighthearted gift exchange where a few particularly coveted items are always the source of playful rivalry. The sense of camaraderie that exists within the Happy Tails community shines through at this event, making it a highlight of the year for all involved.
While the Holiday Party will mark the end of 2024 activities, the club’s board members are already hard at work planning for the upcoming year. A meeting held earlier this month generated a long list of ideas for guest speakers and special events, including an exciting new spring photo session. On April 12 the club will host a spring-themed photo session, a chance to get adorable snapshots of their pets in the fresh bloom of the season. Mark your calendars now, as this is sure to be another popular event.
In addition to the photo session, the club has been reaching out to potential guest speakers to fill the 2025 schedule. These speakers will cover a wide range of topics related to dogs, animals, and the broader pet community. Once dates and topics are confirmed, the full 2025 calendar of events will be posted on the club’s website at www.rrhappytailsdogclub.weebly.com.
The first confirmed event for 2025 will be in January when Dr. Blake Rochell of Northlake Pet Hospital visits the club. Dr. Rochell is preparing a custom talk based on feedback and questions submitted by club members. Topics likely to be covered include kennel cough, respiratory illnesses, vaccine guidelines for aging dogs, pet first aid, and general care for senior dogs. This promises to be a highly informative session tailored to address the concerns of dog owners.
Looking ahead, Happy Tails Dog Club will continue to meet on the second Saturday of each month at 10:30 a.m. in Room 103 of the CATC building. Membership remains open to everyone, and annual dues are just $10 per household. For more information, visit the club’s website at www.rrhappytailsdogclub.weebly.com.