Strut your mutt next year

Published 10:46 pm Thursday, May 8, 2014

The Suffolk Humane Society’s sixth Mutt Strut was held on Sunday, and it raised a good deal of money for a good cause.

About 2,000 people attended, along with — I’m guessing — a comparable number of dogs. Some people didn’t have a dog with them, but many had more than one, so it averages out.

I’ve never been much of a dog person, but I always enjoy attending the event, because I can see the wide variety the canine world offers. There’s everything from Chihuahuas to Great Danes, mixed breeds to pure breds, short to long hair, straight to curly hair, most any color possible. The event truly offers a chance to see dogs for the diverse group that they are, much like humans.

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It gave dog owners the chance to socialize their dogs and get free medical and dental evaluations for their pups. Prospective dog owners got to check out animals up for adoption from the Suffolk Animal Shelter and learn about adoptable animals being held by rescue agencies.

It also offers an excellent chance for the Suffolk Humane Society to fundraise for and bring attention to its work. The society raised about $40,000 at the event through pledges for the pledge walk, sponsorships and food sales.

The society will use the money to educate folks on the importance of spaying and neutering, conduct foster and adoption programs, hold humane education programs and more.

I’m more of a cat person, and there was stuff there for them, too. A couple of women walked in honor of their deceased cats during the pledge walk. One kitty, Kit-Kat, was even The Cove People’s Choice Award winner in The Cove-Suffolk News-Herald Priceless Pets Photo Pageant, for which the awards were presented at Mutt Strut.

No matter your animal inclination, the Suffolk Humane Society does great work in the community and, judging from last Sunday and previous Mutt Struts, puts on a great event. Plan to attend next year.