Staff Reports
Ozark National Scenic Riverways will host its first-ever B.A.R.K. Ranger event for furry, four-legged friends from 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 15 at Big Spring.
Join a park ranger for a short hike around Big Spring and learn about the benefits of visiting the park with your pet. Make sure to bring a leash, as well as doggie bags for easy clean up and a water bowl if your dog needs one. This program is free and all dogs are welcome to become B.A.R.K. Rangers.
This event celebrates dogs and promotes getting outside for a walk with pets in a nearby national park, according to organizers.
All pets and their owners will learn the B.A.R.K. code of ethics:
Bag your waste;
Always wear a leash;
Respect wildlife;
Know where you can go.
At the conclusion of the event, pups will take the B.A.R.K. Ranger Pledge, receive a B.A.R.K. Ranger bandana and be sworn in as official B.A.R.K. Rangers.
For more information about the program, contact Park Ranger Cathy Runge at 573-323-4806.
Big Spring is located four miles south of Van Buren, on State Route 103. The Big Spring Bridge is currently closed for construction, so visitors should follow State Route 103 to Peavine Road and turn left, following Peavine Road to reach Big Spring.