Brown County’s new American Kennel Club Fit Dog Club has been meeting on Tuesday and Friday evenings. BCK9 founder and trainer Alice Waltermire started the group with several of her friends and clients and it has grown to 22 members.

Along with older members, the group has some young puppies that are learning to heel and socialize.

The AKC started the program to promote health and fitness for dogs and their owners. Clubs are required to conduct at least four group fitness walks per year, or conduct regularly scheduled canine fitness/conditioning classes.

Dogs and their owners can participate at their own skill level during the fitness walks and classes.

Dogs and people in good shape should walk at least 30 minutes five times per week for a total of 150 minutes per week for at least three months.

For dogs and people who would benefit from a shorter walk, the walk should be at least 15 minutes per session at least 10 times per week for at least three months.

Waltermire is an AKC approved instructor and evaluator. Brown County now has many certified canine citizens with titles such as Star Puppy, AKC Good Citizen, Community Canine and Urban Canine.

The club meets at Polly’s Bark Park on Tuesdays and Fridays and always finishes up there with a free romp session.

For more information, contact Waltermire via the BCK9 facebook page or by phone at 760-992-6043.