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Humane Society offering Bark in the Park
By Linda Story, Staff WriterTales will be wagging, paws strutting and prizes flying when pet lovers and their furry friends unite this weekend to raise money for other animals in need. The fourth-annual Bark in the Park, sponsored by the Caldwell Humane Society, is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. Saturday at the Lenoir Soccer Complex on Zacks Fork Road. With games, prizes and one-of-a-kind contests, Caldwell Humane Society President Lauren Clark said the day should be fun for everyone. “You don't have to have a dog to come,” Clark said. “It is a great family event that has no admission fee. It's also a great way for our volunteers to reach out to the community.” From the best dressed and the most talented to the dog that can eat the most ice cream, Clark said that all of the crowd favorites are back. In addition, a pet and owner look-alike contest and the “Most All-American Mixed Breed Dog” contest will be added to this year's lineup. Area businesses and individuals have donated items for a silent auction, and various door prizes also will be given away. In years past, Caldwell County Animal Control has brought adoptable animals, and the Lenoir Police Department plans to do a K-9 demonstration. Clark said concessions will be available throughout the afternoon. All funds raised will be used to provide low-cost spay and neuter clinics, as well as educational programs in the schools and community, Clark said. The day also will feature the annual dog walk, which allows dog lovers who collect pledges from friends and family to complete a one-mile walk. Like the breast cancer walk, Clark said participants collect flat donations or a certain amount per distance walked. She also noted that the person who raises the largest amount will be awarded a prize. For the past two years, Caldwell Humane Society member Penny Nix has received that top award, and she gives this event credit to helping her “get out there and walk again.” Interested participants will register on the day of the event prior to its start at 3:15 p.m. The registration fee is $10 for adults and $7 for children ages 5 to 15 years old, Clark said. However, the first 50 people to register for the walk will receive a free Bark in the Park T-shirt. In case of rain, the event will be at the Foothills Readiness Center on Beecher Anderson Road near West Caldwell High School School. For more information, contact the Caldwell Humane Society at 499-0289 or by e-mail at caldwell4pets@gmail.com. Dog Walk Rules € Dogs must be leashed at all times. Retractable leashes only can be used if they are kept locked at a short length at all times. € Pet owners are to pickup after their dog. € Dogs should be friendly and socialized. € Dogs should be in good health and physically fit. € Children under 13 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. € No skateboard, bikes, roller blades or wheeled shoes. € Keep dogs off soccer fields.
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