Bowie is spending the summer helping his mom, Andrea Watson of Port Washington, NY, train for the AVON39: The Walk to End Breast Cancer.
“I entered this event and pledged to walk the 39 miles to honor my sister who has stage 4 breast cancer,” Andrea said. “Bowie and I are raising awareness and funds for this cause. Our hope is that if all of us got together, maybe the dream of a breast cancer-free world could become a reality!”
There are several AVON39 events planned around the country, and Andrea and Bowie plan to walk in the New York fund-raiser on Oct. 17-18. They have been walking every day in preparation for walking nearly 40 miles over two days.
“Bowie is amazing. When I just begin to entertain the thought of skipping a training day, Bowie nudges me with his sweet little nose and trots over to his leash. And he just stays there looking me in the eye until I put on my running shoes and grab the leash. He is definitely keeping me on track.
“His energy is forever. After walking up to 12 miles, we return home. I am spent but he rests a moment or two and then trots up with his favorite toy for a game of catch. But, after all, he is a 4 year-old Golden. He is definitely my BFF.” Bowie is a member of the AKC Canine Partners community for all dogs.
Many charitable walks/runs allow owners to participate with their dogs. The American Cancer Society has a Bark for Life series of dog walks around the country. There are also many walk/runs that raise money for dog-related charities. Before starting a jogging program with your dog, check out these helpful tips from AKC