The youngsters in Girl Scout Troop 10697 knew exactly what they wanted to do as part of a program to earn a top award in the organization.
That project, all 15 scouts decided, was helping animals, said Troop Leader Brenda Falter.
On Sunday, the effort to earn the Bronze Award will begin with a dog training session at First Baptist Church. Jason Purgason, owner of Highland Canine Training in Harmony, will conduct the training session.
Falter said the 15 girls in Troop 10697 voted individually, and in a secret ballot, about what program they wanted to undertake. The main requirement, Falter said, is that the project has to make the world a better place. When the vote was tallied, all decided helping animals was a way to do just that.
“We chose to something for cats and dogs,” Falter said.
The girls began collecting food and treats for a feline rescue group, and wanted to do something a little different for dogs.
Falter connected with a dog rescue enthusiast who recommended asking Purgason to come and give advice on a wide range of topics, from general pet care to training.
The program is not just open to the Girl Scouts, Falter said. It is open to the public, and while it is geared toward children, adults are welcome to attend, she said.
There is no charge for the training session, but participants are asked to bring a bag of dog food or treats to donate to local dog rescue groups.
This event is for humans only.
Falter said the session is already proving to be a popular decision. One scout in her troop is getting a puppy soon, and the advice on training will come in handy. She said she also hopes the information about pet overpopulation and how not all dogs and cats have a happy home will inspire the girls.
Falter said she is proud of the work the Girl Scouts have done in putting this program together. “This all started with 15 little girls putting their heads down on the table and voting,” she said.
Want to attend?
The training session by Jason Purgason of Highland Canine Training will begin at 1 p.m. at Adams Hall at First Baptist Church, 815 Davie Ave. There is no admission charge but participates are asked to bring a bag of dog food or treats to be donated to local animal rescue groups.
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