Humane Society for Southwest Washington Welcomes Walkers and Their Pets.
Just as the weather begins to warm up, so will more than an 1,000 animal-loving runners and walkers, many with their pets in tow, as they embark on the 20th Annual Walk Run for the Animals Saturday, May 7. The community event celebrates companion animals and helps support the animal rescue and care efforts of the Humane Society for Southwest Washington. This year’s Walk Run will also cap off the 2011 national “Be Kind to Animals Week,” which runs from May 1st through May 7th .
Beginning in the heart of downtown Vancouver at Esther Short Park, runners, walkers and an estimated 500 companion animals will follow their choice of three distance routes, ranging from 1.5 miles to 5k, along the scenic Columbia River trail. Ending back at Esther Short Park, participants and their pets will enjoy a variety of festivities including live music, contests and prizes, vendor and retail booths, a kid’s corner and on-site pet microchipping. The Vancouver Farmers Market will also be in full swing adjacent to Esther Short Park beginning at 9:00am on event day.
“The Walk Run for the Animals is a great way for the community to come together and celebrate the companion animals in our lives while at the
same time supporting the Humane Society’s programs and the thousands of animals who come through our shelter each year,” says Chuck Tourtillott, executive director of the Humane Society for Southwest Washington.
Last year the Annual Walk Run for the Animals raised nearly $50,000 to help fund programs and services offered through the Humane Society’s eastside shelter. The organization expects to see more than 10,000 animals in its care this year and relies on the generosity of the local community to help provide these animals with the essential services.
Registration is $25 and includes an event T-shirt. You can register on-line, pick up a registration packet at the Southwest Washington Humane Society, or register the day of the race. For more information, visit the Southwest Washington Humane Society, or call Courtney at 360-213-2615.
