Fur babies on the move

Even pets need to work out their bodies especially when they’re also in quarantine at home along with their owners. Good thing, more outdoor spaces like parks are now open in the metro to give pets a lot of space and sunshine.

The Podium, located in the Ortigas commercial district, opened its Roof Deck Garden on the sixth level to give way to Paw Park. The new venue was excitedly received by nearby condominium residents looking for ways to keep their dogs healthy and limber besides taking them out for on-leash walks.

At the opening were Mandaluyong City Councilor Charisse Abalos-Vargas together with SM AVP for Operations Christian Mathay, Barangay Wack-Wack Greenhills chair Margarita Tan-Climaco and Father Bong Lo, led the opening ceremony with a blessing and ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The canine version of a human gym, training equipment includes the Hoop Jump, Tube Tunnel, A-Frame Ramp, Adjustable Dog Hurdle, Weave Poles, and Pause Table. It has a maximum capacity of 15 dogs and 15 people at a time to practice social distancing. At Paw Park, the equipment ensures dogs will be able to burn their calories off while letting them explore a new environment other than home with their human parents.

No excuses for fur parents not to move their butts ­— and their babies’ — out of the house for exercise. Paw Park is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. The Podium ensures everyone’s safety as pet owners need to present their dog’s latest vaccination records upon registration. The park’s etiquette and safety rules are posted at the entrance for reference.

Fur parents may register online at bit.ly/PetPassRegistration and claim the physical Pet Passes at The Podium Administration Office.