Four-legged fun

JCCs are going to the dogs! This September, JCCs around the country welcomed four-legged friends into their communities for special events.

Dogs were invited to JCC Bridgewater’s end of summer block party, which included dog blessings, a canine costume contest and free dog dental exams. Several communities opened their pools to the dogs before closing them for the season. At JCC Albany’s Dog Splash Pool Party, dogs were allowed to jump, splash and swim in the outdoor pool. The event also featured a dog adoption clinic and raffles. The JCC in Louisville drained their pool halfway and invited dogs and their owners to come play in the annual “Doggie Dip.”

All of these events benefitted local animal shelters and rescue organizations, and some JCCs had representatives of local adoption agencies on hand to talk to anyone interested in adopting a dog.

Michael Rowland, JCC Association’s marketing consultant, says that hosting dog-themed events makes total sense from a marketing perspective too. “For JCCs, a dog event is a great way of expanding the marketing footprint, by attracting the local community of dog owners, and also connecting with pet businesses and canine charities. The evidence suggests that they generate revenue, donations and smiles all around — a perfect trifecta.”