Fitness for a furry cause
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Erin Stidham, a Davis Family YMCA staff member, loves on Clumsy. - Tammy Cheek
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A Pilates participant, Annie Torres, is distracted from exercise by a couple of Humane Society of Tennessee pups. - Tammy Cheek
Puppy kisses and wagging tails welcomed Farragut West Young Professionals who teamed up with Davis Family YMCA to host Puppy Pilates to benefit Humane Society of East Tennessee in the YMCA, 12133 S. Northshore Drive, June 6.
“We are partnering with Davis Family YMCA to do Puppy Yoga, and they are also doing a donation drive for us as well,” said Hannah Joyner, community outreach manager for the Humane Society. “So everyone who is coming here is giving a monetary donation or they’re bringing supplies for our animals.”
West Young professionals, a division of Farragut West Knox Chamber of Commerce, teamed up in the effort with members taking part in the pilates, said KaDee Andreasen, Humane Society development director and and Ambassador chair for FWKCC.
“We have some Chamber members here and some young professionals here, too,” she said.
Joyner said 16 people signed up for the event. She added all the money generated from Puppy Pilates went to the Humane Society.
“Honestly, it’s such a great partnership,” Joyner said. “The shelter doesn’t receive any government funding. We’re completely a donations-based shelter, so events like this would allow us to keep saving lives every day.
“It’s also great for our puppies,” she said. “They get some great socialization, get to meet new people, see new things so that when they go to their forever home, they’re a little more socialized and ready for the world.”
While supporters worked out, puppies distracted them with kisses, toys and curious investigation.
“I love it when Chambers get along with multiple organizations, come together and do something that really helps change lives,” Andreasen said. “It’s not only monetary, it’s good for our dogs to get socialization.
“They spend a lot of time in the kennels, so being able to get loved on really helps them, too,” she added.
