NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — You've heard of hot yoga and goat yoga, right?
Now it's time to add puppy yoga to the list!
Yoga is one of the most popular ways people can take care of their mental and overall health.
If you ever go to the Margaret Maddox YMCA in East Nashville on a Saturday, don't be surprised if you see some puppies roaming around.
Thanks to the non-profit New Leash on Life based in Wilson County, they collaborate for puppy yoga classes.
"The tickets for these classes actually goes to helping start our behavior and training fund," said Macy Thompson, who assists with the non-profit.
The organization is based on Wilson County, but also travels to the surrounding counties in hopes of getting dogs adopted. Proceeds from the class, as Thompson said, help to provide the training for pups to increase the likelihood of adoption.
"It kind of gives these dogs a second chance," she said. "Sometimes they get in there and they may seem aggressive, but sometimes they just need a trainer to come in and say no, no, let's look at this from the big picture. So this puppy yoga is essentially giving dogs a second chance."
Attendees could even fill out adoption paperwork after the class if they found a pup they thought could be a good match.
Upset you missed the class? Good news for you — there's another one coming up the first Saturday in August!
It’s a sad reality that area animal shelters and non-profit rescue organizations face constant overcrowding -- with so many dogs, cats and other animals waiting for a forever home. Jason Lamb reports here that Metro leaders are working with those groups – including Critter Cavalry – to find solutions. I’ve fostered a dog from Critter Cavalry, so I understand the need is great. And I found my pup Domino through another local group, Proverbs Animal Rescue. Ultimately, it starts with all of us. Getting more dogs and cats spayed or neutered can help control the pet population – and ease the burden.
-Rhori Johnston
