Your dog knows what you need

Start planning your dog’s outfit! On Saturday, June 13, Step Forward Health Society is hosting Move for Mental Health — a community walk at The Red Barn in Tsawwassen. Dogs are not just welcome. They are encouraged. And because we know what matters, we’ll have a prize for the best-dressed dog.

There's a reason your dog loses its mind the moment you touch the leash.

They know something we sometimes forget: getting outside and moving — even just around the block — is one of the best things you can do for your mental health. And apparently, dogs have known this all along.

The science (according to your dog)

Walking with your dog isn't just good exercise. It's a full-on mental health reset. Studies show that regular walks reduce cortisol (the stress hormone), boost serotonin and dopamine, and lower symptoms of anxiety and depression. And that's before you factor in the tail wags.

Dog owners who walk regularly report feeling less lonely, more connected to their community, and — this one's real — more likely to strike up conversations with strangers. Turns out a dog is basically a four-legged social icebreaker. Nobody ever stopped to chat about your shoes. But a pup rocking sunglasses and a plaid hat? Instant friends.

It's not just the walking. It's the bond.

There's something about walking alongside a creature who is purely, unconditionally delighted to be with you that does something quiet and good for the soul. No agenda. No notifications. Just you, your dog, and whatever interesting smell is apparently right there on that particular patch of grass.

That kind of presence — even borrowed from a Frenchie— is genuinely grounding.

So bring them along

On Saturday, June 13, Step Forward Health Society is hosting Move for Mental Health — a community walk starting at The Red Barn in Tsawwassen. Dogs are not just welcome. They are encouraged.

The fun gets underway at 10:00 am. We'll have live music, a scavenger hunt for the kids, selfie stations, A “Words in the Wind” community message line — and because we know what matters, a prize for the best dressed dog. Yes, really. Start planning that outfit!

Every step you take — and every step your very good dog takes beside you — helps raise funds so someone in Delta can access mental health care they couldn't otherwise afford.

📍 The Red Barn, Tsawwassen | 📅 Saturday, June 13, 2026 | Free — registration requested

Good for your mind. Great for your dog. And someone in our community will be better for it.

#BeTheReason #MoveForMentalHealth #StepForwardHealth #DogsOfDelta