Animal shelters in area benefit from annual dog walk
The Bella Vista Animal Shelter joined the four other animal shelters in Benton County on Saturday for the fifth annual NWA Dog Walk at Orchards Park.
More than 100 animal lovers and dozens of dogs participated in this year’s event, which raised more than $15,000 to be distributed among the county’s shelters, according to Kristin Switzer, the organization’s chairwoman.
“People get to come out with their dogs and learn about different opportunities in the community,” said Robin Heis, director of the Bella Vista Animal Shelter.
“And we get to raise funds and awareness for the shelter. It’s a great event.”
Switzer, a dog trainer, said she started the dog walk in 2012 as a way to bring the community together and raise money for needy animals. But the event’s popularity has turned it into a full-blown social gathering — for pets and people.
“It’s the largest pack walk in (Northwest Arkansas),” Switzer said. “The money goes to things like medical care, spay and neutering programs and transportation.”
“People can mix and mingle with pet sitters, dog groomers and veterinarians,” Switzer added.
Making her first trip to the dog walk, Tracey Burner brought her 2-year-old Great Dane, aptly named Godzilla.
“I finally had time to make it,” Burner said. “Socializing with humans and animals is the best thing to do (for a dog).”
Burner and her dog drew a crowd when Godzilla would stand on his hind legs and get face-to-face with Burner.
Several people asked for a picture.
The walk began and ended at Orchards Park, winding two miles through playing fields and past Melvin Ford Aquatic Center. The parade of dogs — some decorated with bandannas or dyed fur — distracted several youngsters in a baseball game — much to the ire of their coaches.
When the parade ended, participants were given a medal marking this year’s event. Dogs took refuge in plastic swimming pools, while their owners perused more than 20 booths of pet professionals.
Participants voted to decide which shelter received a $1,000 bonus check. Securing victory by two votes, the Humane Society for Animals in Rogers was the top pick.