Zoom Room Fun for Dogs & Their Owners

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by FOX Charlotte

Story Created: Dec 18, 2011 at 9:22 PM EDT

Story Updated: Dec 19, 2011 at 12:52 AM EDT

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - Over the A-frame and through the tunnel to the table for a treat we go!  Welcome to the Zoom Room in Ballantyne.  "This makes her a much better family partner, family member," says east Charlotte resident Juanita Young of her rescue dog.  "Molly" is 2 years old and full of puppy energy.  Working on obedience at the Zoom Room has helped at home, too.  The dog used to run off when she got out of the backyard.  "Now she will come and sit at my feet, wait for her treat and wait for me to put the leash back on her," says Young.

For two small therapy dogs, the Zoom Room sort of works in reverse.  They are expected to be well behaved and calm on the job.  They come to the Zoom Room to let off steam.  Gastonia resident Maureen Martinek says, "Here they get to run and jump and climb things!"

Melissa Knicely, who works at CMPD's Animal Care and Control, decided to bring her Husky, Flurry, even though the dog didn't always listen at home.  Knicely says, "I really had doubts," but now, "She listened to me!"

"It's good for high energy dogs to burn off energy in a positive outlet rather than tearing things up at home," says Julene Kautzman.  She owns the Charlotte Zoom Room.   There are nine other locations across the country.  The Ballantyne spot is one of only two on the east coast.  Kautzman says, "It offers dog owners something they can't find elsewhere."

In addition to the obedience, bonding and fun, pet owners get a work out.  All this running around works up quite a sweat!  Martinek says, "It makes you feel good to do something with your dog!"  Young adds, "You get a mental workout and a physical work out. You go home and sleep good at night as well as the dog does!"

You can sign up for group or private obedience classes or just go to "open gym" sessions.  Dogs must first pass an evaluation and be up to date on shots.  For more information, go to http://www.zoomroomonline.com/charlotte-dog-training.html 
 

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