Hojun Choi
A budding nonprofit in central Vermont wants to be a unique resource for people who are passionate about dog training, care, and ownership.
“All we’re trying to do is build the community,” said Rebecca Davison, a founding board member of Montpelier-based Canine Collaborative Vermont.
The group is a small pack, but it’s looking to grow, Davison said, adding that the organization is looking to add new faces to its board of directors.
The Canine Collaborative got its nonprofit status about a year and a half ago and is in the middle of forming its membership model, Davison told The Bridge. To garner interest in the organization and its mission, the collaborative is planning informational and interactive events.
“You build an audience for it,” Davison said. “You have to build enough critical mass of people interested.”
In recent months, the nonprofit held two first aid workshops led by professionals from central Vermont-area veterinary clinics. About 60 people attended the two events, Davison said.
Later this month, the nonprofit is hosting a workshop led by Ezra Haas, a trainer with more than 15 years experience as a dog trainer.
The event is scheduled from 1 to 3 p.m., March 22, at the Montpelier Recreation Center on Barre Street and will showcase how dog owners can play “scent games” to create a stronger bond with their pets.
“It’s an activity you can do inside when it’s crummy weather,” Davison said.
A major goal of the nonprofit is to connect people who are passionate or interested in learning more about dogs with professionals in the field, Davison said. Positive reinforcement, safe environments, and community-oriented mindset are part of the collaborative’s philosophy, according to its website.
Future events could feature agility demonstrations and space for vendors. And in time, Davison said, the nonprofit hopes to find an indoor space for training and other activities.
“We also want to bring organizations together to work together to improve the dog community,” she added.
Davison is excited for the nonprofit’s plans to grow and expand its network, but the founders’ deep respect for dogs and the special relationships they foster will remain at the heart of the collaborative, she said.
“I think there is a bond between people who own dogs,” Davison said. “Dog people often help one another, whether it’s walking with each other or helping with training, or just meeting them on the street.”
