MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -- Service members and their pets made their own dog treats and learned about the services provided aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune during the first Paws in the Park April 20.
The event allows interaction between the families and the resources they may not have known about if they live out in town, stated Elicia Graham, a readiness and support trainer for Marine Corps Family Team Building.
“We want to try this again next year well, make it an annual event,” said Graham.
Marine Corps Community Services sponsored this one-of-a-kind event and included individuals from the United Services Organization, Camp Lejeune’s Animal Control and the Carolina Animal Protection Society.
Members from Camp Lejeune’s animal control unit attended to ensure safety and provide assistance to families with questions. A friendly reminder stated, before any animals are allowed aboard base, they must be registered through animal control. pitbulls, rottweilers and any wolf hybrid dogs are strictly prohibited aboard base due to the aggressive nature of the breeds.
More than 15 breeds of dogs and their owners attended the event and took part in a family photo booth, and even contests for best dressed dog and best owner-dog look alike.
The CAPS program represented at the event displayed their services which include opportunities for animal adoption, a pet lost and found and spay and neutering services.
The Single Marine Program roused interest in the community and several individuals volunteered to work at the event.
Sparked by her love of dogs, Lance Cpl. Elizabeth Rosenthal, a metal worker with 2nd Maintenance Battalion, volunteered to help support the community while also being around animals.
“I have a two and a half year old pit-bull back home, living in the barracks makes it hard,” Rosenthal added.
Aside from the base policy prohibiting certain breeds, Midway Park also requires written permission before a resident brings an animal into a home. Residents are not allowed to bring farm animals aboard the base and only two domestic animals are allowed per household.
For more information on registering a dog or to contact Animal Control call 451-5143.