MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- The Iwakuni Veterinary Treatment Facility aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan hosted the 2015 Pet Day at Penny Lake Fields, May 18, 2015.
Pet Day is an annual even that allows service members and their families to bring their furry companions out to enjoy a day centered on man’s best friend.
“We host this event to bring people on station a bit closer,” said Army Sgt. Sakena Miller, a veterinary food inspector with the U.S. Army Public Health Command District-Japan Iwakuni Branch. “Plus this gives pet owners on station a chance to meet with others who share the same interests.”
Miller added that this event also gives those who are new to Iwakuni an opportunity to meet local pet owners who may be able to share some of their knowledge about owning and raising a pet in Japan.
During the event the facility set up an obstacle course for the pets and their owners to run through as well as hosting several other events including a race, owner look-alike contest and a costume contest for attendees to take part of.
“Unlike other military installations there are no dog parks aboard MCAS Iwakuni, so being able to host this event gives residents a great chance to run around with their pets,” said Miller.
Along with the events, several booths provided attendees with information pertaining to their pets including the proper ways to provide CPR to a dog and registration needed in order to have a pet aboard Station.
“This is a great opportunity for pet owners,” said Kimberly Green, a Pet Day attendee. “I take my dogs out for walks all the time but it’s great to be able to have a set location to bring your pets out and enjoy the day.”
Green added that the event also provides great information those who are new pet owners and are looking for information about owning a pet in Japan.
According to Miller, all pet owners should make an effort to attend future Pet Days as it not only provides a great atmosphere for their pets, but it also provides valuable information and services for all pet owner aboard station.