Mutt Strut activities announced

Published 9:00 pm Wednesday, July 1, 2009

The high-flying Purina Incredible Dog Team will headline the second annual Mutt Strut Dog Walk and Festival, the Suffolk Humane Society announced recently.

Co-sponsored by the city of Suffolk, the festival is scheduled for Sept. 20, from 1 to 5 p.m.

The Purina Incredible Dog Team is a collection of some of the world’s most athletic canines performing amazing acrobatic flying disc routines set to music. Utilizing a high-energy performance set to music, these incredible dogs and their trainers not only entertain, but also educate about pet care.

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The team stresses the “incredible” potential in every dog, which is reflected in a number of the canine team members that were adopted at animal shelters and rescue groups around the country.

As a part of the festival, scheduled events will include police and bomb dog demonstrations, agility demonstrations, canine games and contests, raffles and prizes, food, exhibitors, a rabies clinic and vet corner and representatives from animal rescue groups and shelters.

The festival, which is free and open to the public, also will feature a walkathon, in which individuals and teams will walk (with or without dogs) for pledges. Registration is only $15, and walkers will receive packets, which include fundraising ideas, a free personal fundraising web page, t-shirt and doggie bag for the day of the event. To register, visit www.suffolkhumanesociety.com and look for the Mutt Strut logo.

“Last year’s first Mutt Strut drew over 1,500 people from all over Hampton Roads, 333 registered walkers and raised over $70,000 to help homeless animals and raise awareness about animal welfare.” said Jennifer Griffin, Mutt Strut chair. “We hope to exceed expectations for this year’s event, especially with a headliner like the Purina Incredible Dog Team.”

The Suffolk Humane Society is dedicated to promoting the welfare of companion animals in the community through sponsoring spay/neuter programs, placing homeless animals in loving permanent homes, and providing quality humane education, with an emphasis on responsible pet ownership.

Call 374-1476 or visit the Web site each week to get the latest information about the group’s activities, including updates on the Mutt Strut. Visitors also can the up-to-date photos of the adoptable animals at Suffolk Animal Control, 124 Forest Glen Drive.