The Union College (New York) women's ice hockey team has gone to the dogs -- and the cats and the manatees.

Union's coach, Fred Quistgard, has involved his team in the community in a unique way. He also has attracted unique members of the Schenectady community to become involved in Union women's ice hockey -- to everyone's benefit.

What started as an idea to create interest in the new team -- now in just its first year of varsity competition -- has resulted in a bond between the team and the community's pets and pet lovers.

Pets and pet lovers are cordially invited to Union's ice hockey games, and the four-legged spectators even have their own snack bar. While dogs are the most popular hockey-watching pets, snacks also are provided for brave cats who venture out with their owners to watch the Dutchwomen.

Also available at the pet snack bar is information on how to adopt a pet, how to care for pets and how to "adopt" a manatee through a national foundation.

And while the sport of hockey is sometimes known for its roughness and even fighting, every furry or feathery critter is on a leash to prevent fights in the stands.

After each game, there is a reception that raises funds for the Animal Protection Foundation of Schenectady and the national Save the Manatee Foundation. Each team member and coach also will use proceeds from the receptions and merchandise sales to adopt a manatee as well.

"The team loves animals, and we thought it would be a great way for hockey lovers to enjoy games with their pets," Quistgard said of the pet-friendly games. "Plus, it's for a good cause."

Quistgard started postgame receptions to benefit animal shelters when he was interim coach at Bowdoin College before he came to Union. Once at Union, the idea expanded.

"I wanted to promote our sport while enjoying postgame fellowship with both of the teams, the parents and the fans," he said. "The receptions went over very well and we were able to support the local animal shelter. When I was hired to begin the Union women's ice hockey program, I knew I wanted to continue this idea."

Quistgard also gave the Dutchwomen a new mascot. He adopted "Lexus," a St. Bernard who has become a part of the team, attending team meetings and circulating among team members between game periods.

The Dutchwomen also participated with Quistgard in the Animal Protective Foundation's Fireplug 500 Animal Walk earlier this season, an event that raised more than $20,000 for the local animal shelter. The team also collects and recycles bottles and cans from the arena and donates the proceeds to the shelter.

Union athletics director Dick Sakala has strongly encouraged all Union teams to be active in the community, so he is supportive of the team's efforts with the local pet population.

"The Union women's hockey team is in its first varsity season and knows that in order to generate fan interest, it is important for the community to see that the athletes care about more than just what is happening on campus."

Tail-waggin' good times

While the "Pets and Pucks" program has helped raise awareness of the plight of abandoned animals and also provided a way to encourage community members to come to the games, it also is immensely popular. From pets and pet owners to parents and players, everyone has a good time.

"This is a truly unique opportunity for people to do something social with their pets," said Gordon Willard, executive director of the Animal Protective Foundation. "We love the idea and hope that it catches on at other venues, too."

Several parents of Union players have started bringing their dogs to the games, providing the student-athletes with some truly loyal fans.

George and Barbara Owad bring their dog, "Puppy," to the games and pet receptions to help cheer on their daughter, senior forward Kirsten Owad.

"This is a great chance for Puppy to visit with Kirsten since she is away for most of the year," said George Owad. "Puppy really looks forward to the games."

The Dutchwomen feel likewise.

"I always look forward to seeing my parents in the stands," said team captain Melissa Johnson, a junior defenseman and forward. "But now I can also see my dog!"