Puppy yoga at ASPNR meeting raises funds for pediatric research

A professionally organized puppy yoga session took place at the ASPNR Annual Scientific Meeting in Tampa on January 17, offering attendees a one-hour wellness break that also served a fundraising purpose. All proceeds from the event were directed to the Barkovich, Naidich, and Harwood-Nash (BNH) Research Fund, supporting pediatric neuroradiology research through the American Society of Pediatric Neuroradiology, a 501(C)(3) nonprofit.

The morning class combined guided yoga practice with canine companionship, giving conference-goers a chance to unwind between sessions and network in a low-key setting. Organizers positioned the event as both a community-building activity and a visible way to channel meeting energy toward research funding. Participation and sponsorship helped link the neuroradiology community with a wellness-oriented social event, blending the familiar "downward dog" with an institutional mission.

Sponsorship opportunities were structured to provide clear branding benefits. For $2,000, sponsoring institutions had their logos printed on exercise towels distributed to every registered participant. That level of support also included recognition across ASPNR channels: website exposure, social media mentions, placement in the conference agenda, onsite signage, and presence in the conference mobile app. Space for this sponsorship was limited, and organizers accepted applications from institutions seeking visibility during the meeting.

The event offered practical value for multiple audiences. For clinicians and researchers attending the conference, the session provided an easy wellness break and a chance to meet colleagues in an informal environment. For institutions and departments, the sponsorship package delivered tangible marketing assets during a focused professional gathering while directly supporting pediatric neuroradiology projects funded by the BNH Research Fund.

Registration and sponsor application links were provided on the meeting event page for those who wanted to join or back the initiative. Conference organizers integrated the puppy yoga session into the meeting schedule to maximize participation without disrupting scientific programming, making it accessible to busy attendees who wanted a brief, restorative pause.

What this means going forward is simple: community-minded events can pair light wellness activities with fundraising that advances specialty research, and modest sponsorships can yield high visibility within a targeted professional audience. Attendees and institutions interested in similar opportunities should monitor ASPNR event listings and sponsor signups for future meetings if they want to combine a little canine-assisted calm with support for pediatric neuroradiology.