Man's best friend is centre of attention at S'pore Heart Foundation's Woof-a-thon

Man's best friend is centre of attention at S'pore Heart Foundation's Woof-a-thon

Dressed in a custom-made studded leather jacket and wearing a pair of blue-tinted sunglasses and red mohawk, Max the dachshund certainly stood out at Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park on Sunday.

And making Max harder to miss was his owner, interior designer Matthew Koh, who was decked out in matching sunglasses and black outfit and carrying the two-year-old dachshund on the back of his modified fat bicycle.

"We have different themes, so that day was a rockstar theme. His jacket even has a guitar on the back that lights up because what is any rockstar without his guitar?," said Mr Koh, 48.

The duo arrived ready for the Best Dressed Pooch In A Touch Of Red fashion parade, which was part of the Singapore Heart Foundation's Woof-a-thon 2015.

Mr Koh was one of 500 dog lovers who attended the pet walk-a-thon, which included a 2km Buddy Walk for 200 dogs and their owners, on Sunday afternoon.

Organisers hope to raise awareness of cardiovascular benefits associated with dog walking.

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HEALTHY

"Through the Woof-a-thon, Singapore Heart Foundation aims to advocate the cardiovascular benefits associated with walking, a low-intensity activity which dog-owners are more inclined to participate in," said Mr Vernon Kang, chief executive officer of Singapore Heart Foundation.

"Studies have shown that pet ownership, particularly a dog, helps to reduce risks of heart diseases as people with dogs are more engaged in walking and physical activities." There were basic health screenings, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation and automated external defibrillator demonstrations for both humans and dogs.

The event looked like it was a big hit for humans and dogs alike.

Said Mr Koh: "I always take part in these kinds of events because I love dogs. (The event) was very interesting. It was a good place to interact with other pet owners, exchange contacts and ideas about taking care of our dogs."

Mrs Serene Lee, 29, also had a fun afternoon with their three-year-old toy poodle, Coco, who shared a stroller with her 18-month-old son, Jayous Lee.

"We all had fun, it's the third walk we've joined and we will definitely join more in the future," said the housewife.

Organisers said they aim to hold the event biennially.

 


This article was first published on April 14, 2015.
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