We invite you to walk 50 miles with your dog this June and help raise awareness about mental health and wellness.

It’s as easy as:

Join the Team by clicking on the + Fundraise button next to Team Members
Create your Fundraiser Page by following the prompts
Start raising money by sharing on social media, via email and text-to-donate
Download our Tracking Calendar
Grab the leash and get outside with your four-legged friends
Share fun pics of where you go on social media throughout the month using #walksandwags and #therapydogssb

Taking a walk has numerous health benefits. Here are some of our faves:

Release endorphins which improves mood and reduces stress
Lower blood pressure and reduce risk of heart disease and stroke
Build stronger bones and improve balance
Create positive social interactions by walking with friends

You don’t need a dog to participate! Have fun with this, do what you can, and know you are making a difference in your community.

Health Benefits of Pet Ownership
Research from around the world has shown the positive effects that pet ownership has on humans. Here are some of the findings:

People who walk their dogs are seen by other people as friendly and approachable.
Dog owners are more likely to acknowledge and greet people in the street and exchange favors with neighbors.
Stroking and patting a pet can reduce the physiological indicators of stress, including high blood pressure.
The non-judgmental companionship and unconditional love offered by pets is known to have considerable mental health benefits for owners, including increased self-esteem.

Therapy Dogs of Santa Barbara, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, seeks to empower people to live more fulfilling lives through the human-animal bond. Our services include literacy development through our ARF! (Animals + Reading = Fun!) program, promote mental health through our Wag Well Mindfulness program, and enrich the lives of children, youth, and adults through therapy dog visits in the community.

Walks & Wags 50 Mile Challenge

Help raise awareness about wellness and mental health by walking this June!

Team Members