The Kitsap Humane Society’s 20th Annual PetsWalk takes off Saturday, July 13, at 8 a.m. at the Kitsap County Fairgrounds.
The walk continues until 1 p.m.
Pet lovers of all ages are invited to bring their pets and join in the fun while raising needed funds for homeless pets at the Kitsap Humane Society.
Registration is open now online at www.kitsap-humane.org or participants can register at the event.
All animals must be restrained with leashes or harnesses and owners should use their best judgment as to their pets’ ability to be in close contact with other animals.
The only registration fee is a donation to KHS in any amount. To score a PetsWalk t-shirt, participants must raise or donate a minimum of $35.
In 2012, PetsWalk raised almost $25,000 for Kitsap Humane Society and organizers are hoping to exceed that amount by at least 10 percent.
Proceeds of this year’s event will help support Kitsap Humane Society programs such as medical rescue, behavior training, kennel improvement projects and spay/neuter programs.
Attendees arriving prior to the Walk will be able to fuel up by treating themselves and their friends to breakfast sandwiches, coffee and other items from Crazy Eric’s and java from Mocha Medics at the Fairgrounds.
The 1K and 5K walks start at 9:30 a.m. Walkers will follow a new walking route accompanied by cheer-pets and water stations.
One of the most popular events at PetsWalk is the pet costume contest: “Pets Dress for Success!”
The winners will receive pet-tastic prizes and the grand prize winner will be featured on Kitsap Humane Society’s website and press releases.
The Super Fun Small Dog Races will be held in two categories: one for legs 4-inch and under, and another for legs 4 to 6 inches.
The “Born to be a Star” talent contest will feature the best and brightest pets in the crowd – pets with special tricks and talents are especially encouraged to enter.
A special feature of this year’s PetsWalk will be complimentary, 20-minute dog behavior workshops provided by PetsWalk sponsor, KARE (Kitsap Animal Rescue and Education).
Workshops will include “Dogslish”: Dogs do not speak English, they speak Dogslish. This fun and information session will teach even the most seasoned dog parent things they didn’t know or understand about canine communication and behavior.”
Other workshops will include “Behavior Tips & Tricks”.
Animal demonstrations, adoptable KHS animals, a KHS microchip clinic offering microchips at only $30 per pet, many pet-related vendor booths and much more will round out this year’s PetsWalk. For more information, visit kitsap-humane.org.
Kitsap Humane Society is a non-profit charitable organization that has been caring for animals in need since 1908. KHS admits almost 5,000 animals per year and maintains a 94 percent live saved rate. KHS’ vision is that every adoptable companion animal has a home. The staff and volunteers work toward this goal seven days a week through the immediate care and sheltering of thousands of companion animals that are homeless, lost or ill. For more information, visit kitsap-humane.org
