August 11, 2005

Humane Society expects 400 dog lovers at this Saturday’s 3rd annual Walk ’N Wag

Tails will be wagging as pet look-a-like contests, micro-chip specials, dog agility and behavior training highlight Humane Society Silicon Valley’s (HSSV) third annual Walk ’N Wag Walk-A-Thon.

The event will be held on Saturday, Aug. 13 from 8:30 a.m. to noon at Happy Hollow Park and Zoo in Kelley Park, San Jose. Some 400 animal lovers are expected to participate in the walk-a-thon to help raise money for the shelter, which is celebrating 75 years of bringing people and pets together.

“For 75 years, Humane Society Silicon Valley has promoted value and respect for animal life by connecting people and pets,” said Christine Benninger, HSSV president. “This unique walk-a-thon allows us to highlight our vital shelter programs and celebrate the magic of the human-animal bond.” The shelter has a comprehensive program of animal care, adoptions, lost & found, and a medical center offering affordable spaying/ neutering, vaccinations and microchips.

Walk ’N Wag isn’t just for dog owners. All animal lovers are encouraged to walk the course in honor of their pet.
The registration fee for Walk ’N Wag is $25 and includes a T-shirt, dog dish and bandanna for your pet. Registered participants are encouraged to obtain pledges to walk an interactive course with their dog. Along the way, they will experience engaging presentations on animal behavior, dog training, agility, and more. Other highlights include:

· An appearance by the Big Dog mascot.

· Pet contests including pet look-a-like, best trick, biggest lap dog & best costume.

· Microchip clinic to encourage pet owners to microchip their pets so they can be easily re-united with their owners if they become lost. Microchips will be discounted to a $35 donation and include registration with a national databank.

· Professional pet photos by Paul Roberts Photography.

· Animal-related booths with giveaways and information on animals.

· Tile painting project. Parents can purchase tiles for their children or dog to decorate. The tiles will be placed in a hallway of a new family lounge at Westfield Valley Fair. Tiles are $35 each. All proceeds benefit HSSV and the United Way Silicon Valley (UWSV).

People interested in registering for the Walk ’N Wag or making a donation can obtain more information by visiting www.hssv.org and clicking on Walk ‘N Wag or by calling Barbara Vitcosky, manager of special events at (408) 727-3383, ext. 879.