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Local business owners and dog enthusiasts are getting set for Easley’s first Responsible Dog Ownership Day

The day, scheduled for September 22, at Hagood Park, will provide pet owners with information and demonstrations designed to help them become familiar with responsible pet ownership.

Chuck Floyd, owner of Chucks Pet Grooming in Easley, says he is hoping this day attracts many people.

“This is a national event, and the American Kennel Club is the one that puts this on,” said Floyd. “Here in Easley it will be on September 22 between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. What we’re doing is promoting responsible pet ownership.”

While the focus of the event is primarily for pet owners, anyone is invited.

“This is an everybody event,” said Floyd. “We will have a little bit of everything offered. We’ll have some demos from the Clemson Kennel Club. There will be a talk on first aid for animals. We’ll also have a microchip clinic and talking with people to get a vaccination clinic. This is all about talking to people and getting them to understand that Easley is pet friendly community.”

Floyd says he has already raised money for the dog park in Hagood Park, and hopes to raise more.

“We’ll have a Silent Auction and a raffle that will raise money for the dog park to get more equipment and things so we can do more with it,” said Floyd.

Floyd says being a responsible pet owner takes a commitment.

“It’s not necessarily that we see people mistreating their animals,” said Floyd. “Mistreatment of animals is not as common as some people would like to think. The part about being responsible that we would like the public to see is that when you get a pet, it’s a lifetime commitment.”

Floyd says being responsible consist of doing the best you can for your animal.

“It’s okay to have an animal in the backyard in a fenced area and he’s a part of your family,” said Floyd. “When you put an animal outside and you leave them; that’s not responsible. Being responsible means that you’re going to do things like check the food to look after your animal.”

Floyd says looking out for his dogs requires attention to detail and knowing what is good and bad for animals.

“If I’m not willing to try it, I’m not going to give it to my animals,” said Floyd. “That’s watching out for your animals. Making sure you are listening to your vet and that you are providing your pet with the necessary medical attention.”

Even the Easley Police Department will be getting in on the action this fall. Floyd says the police are preparing a demo.

“We’re going to have the Easley Police Department present,” said Floyd. “Right now the word is that we are going to have a vehicle search and a demo. We want the City to see that this is what being responsible and having dogs a part of your community is all about.”

With the event coming together, Floyd says the goal is to improve the lives of pets their owners alike.

“Our goal is not just to teach people about responsible pet ownership, but to raise money for a park and a better place,” said Floyd.