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Dog yoga is latest pet pampering trend to hit here

The Capital Times  —  1/08/2009 12:25 pm

If you're someone who spoils your dog, you might want to head to Ruffin' It Resort, 635 Struck St., on Saturday.

What Ruffin' Resort says is hot in New York and L.A. has hit Madison: "DOGA," which is partner yoga for dogs and their "parents."

Ruffin' It, which is owned by Renee Brantner Shanesy, is hosting introductory DOGA classes with certified yoga instructor Courtney Weis, director of Harbor Wellness Center, on Saturday and on Jan. 18.

The 45-minute classes, which cost $12, focus on the bonding experience between owner and dog. Relaxation, massage, stretching and various yoga and doga poses will be taught to soothing serenity music. Owner and dog will work as a team, learning from and working off of one another, Ruffin' It said.

In preparation for the class, both Weis and Brantner Shanesy practiced with their dogs, who they reported were "surprisingly amenable to the opportunity."

Weis' extensive experience with human yoga is a necessary and valuable asset to the program, they said.

For details, call 310-4299 or send an e-mail to renee@ruffinitresort.com.

The Capital Times  —  1/08/2009 12:25 pm