‘Bark For Life’ set for Jan. 23
Dog owners have a chance to sign up for some fun, while supporting a great cause.
The American Cancer Society Bark For Life will be held on Jan. 23 at 11 a.m. at the Sandoval Community, with registration opening at 10 a.m. It is the first time for the event for the area.
“It’s meant as a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. It’s similar to Relay for Life, but it’s for doggies instead of people,” Susan McNamara, the event coordinator and a volunteer, said.
“The gates will be open to the general public for them to come in,” she added.
There will be a parade, where participants will walk with their dogs.
“It’s not going to be people walking for 20 hours,” McNamara said, referring to Relay for Life.
The cost is a $5 donation per dog; people can register in advance online.
“My goal is to have at least 100 dogs participating,” she said.
A similar event recently held in Naples drew a couple hundred dogs.
The event will also feature contests, with prizes donated by local businesses.
“I think we’ve got eight different categories,” McNamara said.
The categories include Best of Show, Best Dressed Adult and Dog, Best Dressed Child and Dog, Shiniest Coat, Best Kisser, Best Public Speaker Best Trick and Waggiest Tail, as well as Cutest Pair.
“For people who have more than one dog,” she said.
There will be a silent auction held.
“We have businesses that have donated different items,” McNamara said.
They include themed gift baskets, restaurant gift certificates and such.
“Some of them are for dogs, some of them are for people, so it’ll be an assortment,” she said.
Items will also be raffled off, with the proceeds to benefit the American Cancer Society.
At least a dozen pet-related vendors will be on site, with food, supplies and more.
There will be food available, including from local food truck.
Water and beverages will also be on hand.
“With the proceeds all going to the American Cancer Society.
McNamara invited pet owners to sign their dogs up and the general public to stop by.
“It’s supporting a great cause,” she said. “Hopefully, they weather will be good.”
“It’ll be a fun afternoon,” McNamara added.
For more information on the American Cancer Society Bark For Life or to register in advance, visit:www.relayforlife.org/barksandovalFL or
www.facebook.com/Bark4LifeSandoval.
The Sandoval Community is at 2307 Sandoval Blvd.