The Register-Herald, Beckley, West Virginia

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September 15, 2009

Bark in the Park

Bark in the Park to raise funds for shelter

Bev Davis

The dogs love it. Their owners love watching their canines have fun, and the Humane Society of Raleigh County raises money to support its mission to get as many animals adopted as possible.

The annual Bark in the Park fundraiser sponsored by the humane society will be held Sept. 26 from 9:30 a.m. to noon at the YMCA Paul Cline Memorial Youth Sports Complex in Beckley.

“Walking a dog is good exercise. This event is held outdoors, and we’re hoping for good weather, so it’s a good opportunity to walk a dog for a good cause,” said board member Melinda Bland.

The rules are simple. You either walk your own dog, walk a dog for a friend or walk one of the dogs from the Raleigh County Animal Shelter, who will be available for the fundraiser.

Each walker gets pledges of $5 per lap or more or a flat donation. Humans and their canine companions attempt up to five laps.

“This has been a really fun event in past years, and it’s proven to be a good fund-raiser,” Bland said.

“The event was successful because of the good financial response, but the people and the dogs who came had a really good time. We’re hoping it will be even bigger and better this year,” she said.

It’s especially good for shelter dogs to have a day outside, she added.

“It’s good exercise for them, and they also get to show off a little bit. It’s great when someone who comes out for the event sees a shelter dog they fall in love with and winds up adopting it,” Bland said.

Those who walk dogs must be at least 18 years old. Dogs must be on leashes, and owners are responsible for making sure the canines behave properly.

Walkers are also asked to bring a good supply of fresh water for the dogs.

Those who complete 5 miles receive a T-shirt.

Walkers must be 18 years of age or in the company of a parent or guardian.

Sign-up sheets are available at the shelter.

In case of inclement weather, a make-up date for the event has been scheduled Saturday, Oct. 3.

Donations with checks made payable to the Humane Society of Raleigh County can be mailed to: 325 Grey Flats Road, Beckley, WV 25801.

For more information, call 304-253-8921.

— E-mail: bdavis@register-herald.com

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