The first step to get a program like this started would be to coordinate with the animal shelter and get permission. I would have to coordinated available hours for a schedule, requirements for the dogs eligible for walking/running, and any liability.
Step two would be to coordinate with the healthcare facility I would be employed by. This would also involve any liability insurance, class location, as well as finding participants for the program. As a fitness instructor it is important to be in control of the class and the environment it is held in. I would have to find a safe path for the participants and the dogs to walk or run on. I would also have to take in to consideration the weather conditions and hydration of all of the participants (human and dogs).
The third step would be to advertise for the fitness group and put the event into action. I would need to advertise at the health care facility, the animal shelter, and online. This will be a very important step and will include skills that I have learned in this course. Not only will photography editing skills come in handy but also my newly attained knowledge of what catches viewers eyes.
An example of a flyer for a program like this would look like the following. Note that the flyer is not a real event and is just a proposed event.
Shelby, I think this is a great idea! There are not nearly enough dog walkers to help get all the dogs the exercise they need to stay healthy and happy. I definitely agree that with exercise, we often do need motivation; time with an adorable animal is sure to bring people in.
ReplyDeleteI think you have addressed the steps you would need to take nicely. You have included all the things I could think of (water, safe paths, advertising, schedules, etc.). The liability portion is especially important, for both the dogs and humans.
The only other thing I can think of is to make sure that everyone has some plastic bags in case the dogs need to do their business on the path. Disposing of the waste is important for preventing disease and maintaining a clean environment.
Great proposal!
Great thinking! Katie gave you some important detail tips. Perhaps you two could collaborate? This would make a fantastic research project! (You could measure the results in noise levels before/after the exercise...)
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