Big Island hospital participating in World’s Largest Pet Walk

Queen’s North Hawaiʻi Community Hospital is joining thousands of people and their pets  around the globe on Sept. 27 for the “World’s Largest Pet Walk.”

The hospital encourages everyone to enjoy the health benefits of being active with pets. 

Community members and their furry friends are welcome to join the hospital’s pet therapy teams on a 2-mile walk starting across from Pukalani Stables at 8 a.m. on Saturday, rain or shine. This worldwide pet walk was created by Pet Partners, the nation’s leading organization registering therapy animals. 

Walking daily can increase cardiovascular fitness and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. In addition, research has found that people who walk with an animal are more likely to meet physical activity recommendations, according to the hospital’s news release.  

“Bring your pet, and if you don’t  have one, we have therapy animals you can walk with,” said  Lynn Scully, spokesperson for Queen’s North Hawai’i Community Hospital.

Anyone interested in becoming a pet therapy team member can learn more at petpartners.org or visit the hospital’s website volunteer section by clicking here.

Pets must be well behaved and on leashes. No sign up is required. For questions, call 808-881-4421.