October 14, 2009– North Bethesda, MD-based DogCentric, Inc. this October will mark three years and 3,000 hours of dog-walking services provided for the homeless dogs at The Washington Animal Rescue League (WARL). Since 2006, DogCentric has provided nearly $100,000 worth of dog-walking services at no cost to the League.

The Washington Animal Rescue League takes in homeless and abused animals and places them in loving, adoptive homes throughout the D.C. metro area. When the shelter’s 2006 renovation increased animal housing capacity by 66 percent, the League realized that they would need additional help. Without the resources to hire additional staff, WARL turned to DogCentric for support.

The shelter, located in Northwest D.C., houses up to 150 dogs at any given time. All of them are eager for a morning walk as staff arrives each day. At a time when volunteers are sparse, the League’s staff is confronted with additional duties, including feeding, medicating, and cleaning up after the dogs in their care. DogCentric provides two dog walkers each and every weekday morning to offer the dogs a bathroom break and opportunity to stretch their legs.

Dr. Gary Weitzman, the League’s Executive Director notes “DogCentric’s walkers play an essential role in the League’s daily operations. We are amazed by their commitment to the shelter, and are so appreciative that they have pledged to continue to provide such critical assistance in the current economic climate.”

DogCentric’s dog walkers often form deep bonds with the dogs at the shelter as they await a permanent home.

In the three years since beginning the partnership, WARL has rescued and adopted out 2,763 dogs. “It is an extremely rewarding experience to work with the dogs at the League. Our walkers help them learn how to trust again, build confidence, and have fun,” explains Cheryl Staab, owner and founder of DogCentric. “I believe it is incredibly important for every business to give back to its community. We are proud to be the dog-walking partner for the Washington Animal Rescue League.”

In a true rags-to-riches story, DogCentric walkers are lucky to see some of those homeless dogs again and continue to build a relationship with them as dog walkers in their new homes.

About DogCentric, Inc.
DogCentric, Inc. is a professional dog-walking service offering private midday walks to the residents of Northwest D.C. and Southern Montgomery County. Founder Cheryl Staab started the business in 2005 when she saw a need in the area for a personalized approach to dog walking with an emphasis on the health, happiness, and safety of the dogs. DogCentric provides their clients with peace of mind when they are away from their homes and consistent care for their pets. DogCentric is bonded and insured, and is a member of Pet Sitters International and the Better Business Bureau. For more information, visit www.dogcentric.com.

About The Washington Animal Rescue League
The Washington Animal Rescue League is a non-profit animal rehabilitation and adoption center, and is an innovative leader in the field of animal protection. Since 1996, the League has also operated a full-service, low-cost Medical Center for the companion animals of low-income area residents, making it the only facility of its kind in the mid-Atlantic region. Founded in 1914, the League is the oldest animal shelter in the metropolitan area. In 2006, a $4-million renovation made the League one of the world’s most humane, animal-friendly facilities for dogs and cats in transition. The League is located at 71 Oglethorpe Street, NW , Washington, D.C . For more information, visit www.warl.org.

Tags: dog celebration, dog walkers, DogCentric, homeless dogs, shelters, Washington Animal Rescue League