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CSU encourages stomping out smoking near pets  

Phoenix watched other dogs bark, jump and play at the sixth annual Stomp, Romp & Wag festival at Colorado State University.

The festival raises awareness of the dangers that secondhand smoke poses to pets, including increased rates of lung and oral cancers, allergies and skin ailments. The college-age population has the highest rate of smoking, according to health officials.

"Secondhand smoke is a horrible thing," said CSU junior Reed Nelson, as he walked Phoenix away from the free doggie massage tent. "It's depressing that people would subject their pet to it."

Last year's fair drew about 1,000 people and about 250 dogs, and this year's event looked like it was proving even more popular, organizers said.

The event is organized by CSU's Hartshorn Health Service through a smoking-prevention grant.

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