Here at MCHA, we are committed to keeping families together—which includes ensuring our community’s pets remain happy and healthy. In honor of Responsible Dog Ownership Month, here are a few tips to help you give your dog the best life possible.

Keep your dog active. Give your dog daily exercise that matches their energy level. This can mean a brisk 30-minute walk, a game of fetch, or a few rounds of tug-of-war. Regular activity helps maintain a healthy weight, supports heart health, and reduces the risk of joint and mobility issues as they age. Play also challenges your dog’s mind, preventing boredom that can lead to destructive behaviors.

Be a good neighbor. Always leash your dog in public spaces, clean up after them, and ensure their ID tags and microchip information are up-to-date. Spaying or neutering is, of course, a vital part of responsible pet ownership—it not only prevents unwanted litters but also reduces certain health risks, including reproductive cancers and prostate issues in male dogs.

Invest in training. Teaching your dog simple commands like sit, stay, and come can make a big difference in their safety and happiness. Use positive reinforcement—such as treats, praise, or play—to reward good behavior. This method encourages your dog to repeat the actions you want, builds trust, and makes learning enjoyable. Teaching simple commands like this is more than just a fun trick. Commands help your dog in everyday situations, such as stopping them from running into the street or helping them stay calm when guests arrive at your home.

Did you know? MCHA offers education and workshops led by community partners, as well as free education resources to the public. Keep an eye on Upcoming Events & Classes, as we’ll be adding new workshops soon! 

MCHA recently hosted a hands-on leash skills workshop with Leslie Hudson, CPDT, certified professional dog trainer and owner of Train Loyal Companions, LLC. This workshop was designed for dogs struggling with leash manners and impulse control in real-world environments, and aimed to help attendees build better communication and control through kind, reward-based training.

Attendees learned how dogs think, communicate, and respond to stimuli; received hands-on guidance using tools such as clickers, treats, gentle leaders, calming touch, leashes, and harnesses; and learned positive reinforcement techniques, including leash handling strategies to reduce pulling and frustration on both ends of the leash.

If this sounds like something you’d like to participate in and you were unable to attend, don’t worry! We’re now planning future classes and workshops, and we would love your input. What topics would you like to see offered?

Take me to the short survey!

Celebrate Their Memory on MCHA’s Pet Remembrance Tree

September is International Pet Remembrance Month—the perfect time to honor your pet, or the pet of a family member or friend, on MCHA’s newly installed artist-crafted metal Pet Remembrance Tree.

Be among the first to place a “leaf” on our tree. Standing over six feet tall and secured in a granite boulder, this beautiful tribute is a lasting way to celebrate the love and memories you shared.

Your gift not only honors your pet but also supports MCHA’s lifesaving programs that help thousands of pets in our community each year.

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Sunday, October 5  |  9:30 a.m.
Karst Farm Park
2450 S Endwright Rd, Bloomington, IN 47403

The 30th Annual Run for the Animals 5K is only a month away, and we’re hoping to see you and your furry friends there!

Perfect Timing Race Management will oversee the course management and race timing this year. Known for their work with major local events like Hoosiers Outrun Cancer and the Hoosier Half Marathon, their expertise will help elevate the runner experience while ensuring accurate and efficient results.

We’ll keep the party going after the race awards with raffles and fan-favorite canine contests, including the fastest peanut butter licker and best costume. We’ll also have extra Run t-shirts for sale in multiple colors featuring this year’s new 2-color Run logo! 

We can’t wait to welcome all of you—runners, walkers, spectators, and four-legged friends—to our 30th Annual Run for the Animals! All proceeds raised support MCHA’s many programs benefitting the local community and their pets.

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Thanks to Our Sponsors

Run for the Animals is presented by The Dog House, offering cage-free boarding in a cozy, home-like environment. With 24-hour staffing and personalized care, The Dog House strives to be your pet’s home away from home. Learn more at trydoghouse.com.

We’re happy to share that Bloomington Menards at 1285 Liberty Dr, Bloomington, IN 47403, is holding a pet food and supply donation drive for MCHA through September 30! Purchased items may be dropped in the donation bin on your way out of the store. We’re grateful for this wonderful support from Menards and our community!