ASL event provides alternative for Valentine’s date

Bruno Palomares, Contributing Writer

The first inaugural Smooch the Pooch event took place on Feb. 10 at the La Centerra Central Green. Hosted by the American Sign Language class, the event lasted from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m.

“There [were] different activities and games,” Audrey Reyna, the ASL teacher, said. “There [was] a jar where you guess how many kisses were inside, raffles, and frames to take pictures with the dogs.”

Although the name suggests only dogs were part of the event, people also brought other types of pets.

“People brought mostly dogs,” Reyna said. “Some brought cats, and someone brought their turtle.”

In preparation for Valentine’s Day, Smooch the Pooch offered an alternative to finding a date. Instead of spending the day with another person, all they really needed is the love of their pets.

“The goal is to show people they don’t need a date to be happy on Valentine’s Day,” Reyna said. “The only true love out there is from your dog.”