The local Friends of Animals is gearing up for another “Paws Around the Park” event next month, with doggie contests and prizes for the top fundraisers.
“I think we did extremely well the last couple years. We’re hoping to match that,” said organizer Susan Cousineau, who is a member of Friends of Animals.
Last year, “Paws Around the Park” had 30-40 participants and raised about $7,500.
The organization recently purchased property on Highway 11 just minutes east of Fort Frances, where they hope to build a shelter for homeless animals.
“We want that to be a focus of our fundraising,” Cousineau said.
But she stressed “Paws Around the Park” is not all about raising money.
“Yes, it’s about fundraising, but it’s about a lot of other things, as well,” she remarked. “It’s about sending the message of what we’re all about and raising awareness.
“A lot of these animals were on the brink of death and you get to see them happy and healthy. It’s very heart-warming,” she added.
The event, which is slated for Saturday, Sept. 6 at Pither’s Point, is not restricted to pet-owners as there are many foster dogs people can volunteer to walk, as well.
“We have a lot of foster dogs, and people could come out and walk these dogs,” Cousineau noted. “There’s not a lot of pressure to raise large sums of money. You could just sponsor yourself for a few dollars and come out and walk.
“Walking [in the event] is a tribute to animals who have been given a second chance at life, and to animals who are still out there who need help,” she said.
This year’s mascot is “Maggie,” who was found in January—cold and emaciated—under a house with her seven puppies. They were so badly malnourished they had to be put on vitamins.
But they are all doing well now, and Maggie and all but one of her pups have been adopted.
People interested in sponsoring a walker but don’t know of one can sponsor “Maggie” by completing a mail-in pledge form that will be available in upcoming newspaper advertisements.
As mascot, “Maggie” will lead the walk, followed by the Friends of Animals alumni dogs that have found homes through the Adopt-a-Pet program.
A special group photo will be taken of all alumni dogs at the event.
Once again, prizes will be offered for the three “top dog” fundraisers. First prize is an Olympus digital camera, second prize is a JVC DVD player, while third prize is an RCA portable CD player.
There are three prize categories for adults, teens, and children.
And all participants who raise more than $50 will have their names entered in a draw for additional prizes.
Meanwhile, the doggie contests, which Cousineau said are always a big hit, have been expanded this year.
Contest categories will include best howl, silliest canine costume, cutest canine costume, waggiest tail, longest ears, droopiest jowls, largest and smallest dog, fluffiest dog, most obedient, loudest bark, best dancing, and best trick.
New this year is the “Pets on Parade” photo contest, in which all participants are asked to bring a favourite photo of their pet.
This contest also is open to cat-owners, with a prize for “My Purr-fect Pal” along with “My Pampered Pooch.”
All registered participants will receive a free pizza lunch and all pets will receive a free doggie bag. Pizza and pop will be for sale to spectators.
Registration will be from 10-10:30 a.m. on Sept. 6, with the walk beginning at 11.
Further information and pledge forms can be picked up at the Nor-West Animal Clinic, Sight & Sound, Pizza Hut, Dr. Tom Cousineau, and In Focus Photography.
If you would like to donate a prize for “Paws Around the Park,” contact the Friends of Animals (274-2144).
(Fort Frances Times)
Fort Frances Times
Local News from Across the Rainy River District
