Why I Created StrideFest: Building Community Around Animal Health in Darke County

I see animal-based events all the time in larger cities like Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, and Toledo. They often have expos, education days, and community gatherings centered around pets, horses, and animal health.

But in smaller, rural communities like Darke County, Ohio, those opportunities are much more limited.

Darke County is a strong agricultural and farming community. We have livestock, horses, dogs, cats, and working animals everywhere—but not a lot of dedicated events that bring all of those resources together in one place.

And that’s really where the idea for StrideFest started.

A Community That Deserves More Access to Animal Resources

In this area, animals are a huge part of daily life. They work alongside us, live with us, and are often considered part of the family.

But even with that, many people don’t always have easy access to information about all the options available for their animals beyond the basics.

Things like grooming services, boarding for both dogs and horses, training resources, adoption opportunities, health and wellness options, and better nutrition choices are all available—but not always well known.

The idea behind StrideFest was to bring those resources together in one place so people could actually connect with them.

Why I Felt This Was Needed

I also wanted to create something that highlights animal health in a way that feels approachable and educational.

Animals deserve the same level of care, attention, and support that we naturally give ourselves in human healthcare and wellness spaces.

Whether it’s a performance horse, a working dog, or a family pet—they all benefit from better awareness and better access to care options.

StrideFest was created to help bridge that gap.

Supporting Local Animal-Focused Businesses

Another big part of StrideFest is highlighting local businesses and services that people may not even realize are available in the community.

This includes animal chiropractors, groomers, trainers, boarding facilities, adoption organizations, and feed and nutrition resources.

The goal is not just education, but connection—helping people discover what’s already available right here in their own area.

Also Supporting Back ’N Stride Animal Chiropractic

StrideFest also gave me a way to introduce Back ’N Stride Animal Chiropractic to the community in a more natural, educational setting.

Since the business is still growing in this area, events like this help people learn what animal chiropractic actually is, how it supports movement and function, and how it fits into overall animal care.

But at its core, this event was never just about one business.

It’s about the bigger picture of animal health and awareness in our community.

The Bigger Vision

My hope is that StrideFest continues to grow into something that brings people together every year.

Not just as an event, but as a place where animal owners can learn, connect, and discover better ways to support the animals they love.

Darke County already has a strong animal culture—we just needed a space that brings it all together.