What's New in DTR?: Sir Edmond, an 8-year-old Anatolian Shepherd, is throwing a party and YOU are invited! Help raise money as he competes for Pet Partners 2023 Pet of the Year. Help raise funds for Pet Partners, the leading therapy animal registry program in the United States. 

Why it matters:

• The need for therapy animals in our nation’s hospitals, schools, and other public places has never been higher.

• Therapy animals are popular visitors to area schools, senior facilities, hospitals, and community events.

• With hospitals full and many people feeling stress due to life’s challenges, people need pets to help ease mental health issues.

The Festivities Include: Join the fundraising fiesta and enjoy free games and art activities, meet local pet businesses, visit the Book Nook where local children’s authors will read aloud while children pet therapy dogs. Sir Edmund is hosting this event with the hope that animal lovers all over Northwest Arkansas area can support his campaign to become pet of the year!

• Sir Edmund really wants to win the national contest so he can help therapy animal teams across Arkansas get more educational resources.

• The event is a six-week fundraising competition that takes place February 1 through March 15.

• Pet Partners is the leading therapy animal registry program in the United States.

Showcasing Local Talent: More than 50 Elmwood Middle School students participated in a poster contest, and their artwork will be on exhibit, and trophies and ribbons will be presented at the Rogers Experimental House during this Saturday’s event. 

Why it matters: The companionship of a therapy dog facilitates real chemical changes in the body of the humans they meet. Medical professionals have discovered that most patients with a therapy dog experiences lower stress levels, increased calmness and happiness, and are less likely to feel lonely or forgotten. Sir Edmund shares his love for people during visits to area schools, senior facilities, hospitals, and community events. This popular canine ready to help anyone put a smile on their face.

CLICK HERE for the event on Facebook.