There’s a new Dog….. Stop in the neighbourhood, thanks to Kim Stremler’s innovative idea

Mounties Report

Kim Stremler, pictured here relaxing on her new bench for pet owners to take a break on during walks. The “Best Stop” dog rest includes a cupboard with bags & treats, a hook for the leash, a doggy water bowl & a waste disposal unit.

By Deron Hamel for Brant Community Living

Kim Stremler meets lots of dogs and their owners walking through her Paris, Ontario neighbourhood every day and she has come up with an idea to make their journeys more enjoyable. During their walks, the dogs sometimes get thirsty or want a treat Sometimes they need to relieve themselves. And sometimes they need to take a break. Noticing this, Kim decided she wanted a “dog stop” in front of her home to provide the amenities the pooches and their human friends need during their strolls.

The dog stop also provides Kim’s home with a more welcoming atmosphere and, of course, she enjoys that dogs and their owners stop by to use the service she provides.

The dog stop includes a cupboard shaped like a house that was built by a community member to store dog treats There’s also a water bowl for thirsty pups as well as a spot to rest. Kim keeps the area stocked with baggies so owners can clean up after their dogs. Not surprisingly, the dog stop is getting lots of use,

Kim says, adding she needs to refill the bowl with fresh, cold water at least once a day.

Two neighbourhood dogs one named Fido and a golden retriever named Bonnie use the dog stop almost every day, Kim says. Their owners are also pleased Kim is helping make dog-walking more enjoyable.

“They really like it,” she says.

And Kim says she likes having lots of dogs drop by to use the dog stop. She says she’s always had an affection for dogs, so providing a dog-friendly space at the front of her home makes her feel like she’s making a difference.

The dog stop also provides Kim’s home with a more welcoming atmosphere and, of course, she enjoys that dogs and their owners stop by to use the service she provides.

Having a dog stop has another perk: Kim gets to meet lots of dogs and give them treats, which the dogs always graciously accept.

“They’re always gentle,” she says.