ARLINGTON, Va. (April 30, 2015)—People and their pooches will take one-step at a time to support shelter animals at one of Northern Virginia’s largest pet-centered events—20th Annual Walk for the Animals & Pet Fest on Saturday, May 9, 2015 (rain or shine) at Bluemont Park from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30p.m.
This event not only unifies the community and celebrates the human-animal bond, but raises awareness and funds to support shelter animals like “George,” a seven-month-old, purebred Shiba Inu puppy, who came to AWLA with crippled hind legs.
“Our mission is to improve the lives of animals and George is just one example of the many animals that come to AWLA in need of medical attention,” said Neil Trent, president/CEO of AWLA.
The Walk for the Animals not only demonstrates the way pets enrich our lives, but generates important funds to help AWLA sustain community programs and services, like life-saving veterinary care for our shelter animals,” said Trent.
Unclear whether the damage to George’s hind legs was caused by trauma or by genetics, George, now a tri-pod, received life-restoring surgery from a team of AWLA partners, but it was made possible through funds generated through generous supporters and events like the Walk for Animals & Pet Fest.
Event participants will walk for George and all shelter animals in need in a three-mile walk or one-mile stroll through the park. After the walk, the 20th anniversary celebration will continue with a newly added Pet Festival including:
- Music by DJ Reuben
- Demonstrations by WOOFS! Dog Training Center, with an opportunity for event attendees’ dogs to try the course.
- Retail Row, featuring Dogma Bakery, Kissable Canine, Lazy Dog Art Studio, Origami Owl Jewelry and Buck & Associates Realtors.
- Kids Corner, children will make enrichment toys including buster balls filled with hay and dried cranberries for small companion animals and decorated ping pong balls for cats.
- Activities, including a photo booth, Bobbing for Biscuits game, Ask an Animal Control Officer and more.
- Food and Beverage with complimentary coffee from Java Shack, water and lemonade provided by AWLA, CapMacDC food truck featuring gourmet macaroni and cheese.
Many of AWLA’s adoptable dogs will also be onsite to meet potential new families. Event attendees will receive valuable pet information and learn about animal resources in the Arlington community.
“The Walk not only supports the thousands of animals the League cares for each year, but it is also a way for people to be a part of the solution for improving the lives of animals in our community,” said Trent. “We encourage people to walk with or without a dog, in memory of a beloved pet or in honor of their cat or other companion animal.”
All proceeds directly benefit adoptable animals and community programs supported by The Animal Welfare League of Arlington (AWLA)—the County’s only humane society. Pre-register now for $30 or register event day for $40. All pre-registered walkers will receive a free 2015, commemorative Walk t-shirt and swag bag. Participating dogs will receive a free bandana. For Walk information and details visit, www.awla.org.
Sponsors include: Arlington Animal Hospital, Caring Hands Animal Hospital, VCA Alexandria Animal Hospital, VCA South Paws Veterinary Specialists and Emergency Center, Segue Technologies, The AWLA Board of Directors, The Board Hound, Fur-Get Me Not, Regional Veterinary Referral Center, WOOFS! Dog Training Center, Pet Lover’s Companion and NOVA Dog Magazine.
