Stow Business Plans Fundraiser for Japan

The earthquake and tsunami that caused widespread devastation and death in Japan on March 10 caused heartbreak for the owner and employees of . They knew they wanted to help in some way, but how?

Well, with a dog-related fundraising party, of course!

On March 31 from 6 to 8 p.m., the 3073 Graham Rd. business will host a “Yappy Hour” event entitled “101 Donations: Paws for Japan.”

Admission is $25 per family and includes full use of the indoor dog park, including the agility equipment. All proceeds will be given to the Japan disaster relief fund established by the American Red Cross.

Double Dog owner Nancy Binzel dreamed up the fund-raising idea after realizing that her employees were just as upset by news of the disaster as she was.

“You keep reading stuff about it and feel so helpless and powerless. It’s just so overwhelming,” said Binzel. “At a staff meeting we just suddenly got serious and started talking about Japan, and it really puts things in perspective. The things we gripe about are meaningless in comparison.”

Binzel figured that since her was such an enjoyable success, a similar event would be a great way to raise funds.

 “At the open house, it was non-stop fun from start to finish. The most dogs we had in there at one time was about 25, and everybody fit quite well and everybody had a great time,” she said. “What could be better than an evening that is fun for both people and their dogs and, honestly, for us too?”

The 2,800-square-foot Double Dog facility is large enough for dogs to run, play and socialize with other dogs. Fundraiser attendees can enjoy “yappy hour” refreshments, enter raffle drawings to win prizes and then go home with a very tired dog.  

One of the raffle prizes Binzel is excited about is a photo session package offered by Photography by Aame, a Northeast Ohio business specializing in pet portraits. The photographer also will be photographing the fundraiser.

The event does have some grounds rules that attendees should be aware of. Binzel said there will a limit of two dogs per family and that all sizes and ages of dogs are welcome, except females in heat and pitbulls. Owners will be responsible for cleaning up any messes from their dog and for taking their own dog outside for potty breaks.

Owners who are not already Double Dog clients must bring records to show each dog is current on its rabies, DHLPP and bordatella vaccines. All attending dogs, excluding those already known to Binzel and her staff, will be evaluated for temperament and overall health before being allowed to enter the facility. Any dog exhibiting aggression or severe stress will be turned away.

Pre-registration is strongly recommended, but walk-ins will also be welcome. Businesses or individuals interested in donating bake sale items or prizes or serving as an event sponsor can contact Double Dog at 330-968-4272 or by emailing Binzel.