BURGAW – It’s a Fido and Family walk in the park as Burgaw’s Rotary Park hosts Pender Pawzapalooza April 14, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
“We are proud of our animal shelter and we are pleased to sponsor Pender Pawzapalooza,” said Tammy Proctor, Pender County tourism director.
The event will feature a pet fun walk utilizing parts of the Osgood Canal Greenway Trail starting at 11:30 a.m. A $5 entry fee will benefit the Pender County Animal Shelter. At the end of the walk participants will receive a toy for their dog and all $5 entries are entered in a drawing for a prize.
A pet costume contest will take place at noon for three “Best Dressed” categories – large, medium, and small dogs. Pet owners may dress in costume and judges will select the best Owner/Pet costume theme. Prizes will be awarded.
Pet agility, pet obedience, a hot car demonstration, face-painting, vendor tents, and pet adoptions will be available at Pender Pawzapalooza.
“This event is targeted toward the many residents of Pender County who own pets and are looking for pet friendly activities” says Jewell Horton, Manager of the Pender County Animal Shelter. “We will have the shelter’s agility course on site for pet owners to utilize, as well as professional demonstrations on obedience and agility from local trainers.”
“Pets have a relaxing effect and bring a sense of calm,” said Carolyn Moser, director of Pender County Health and Human Services. “Physical activity such as walking a pet is good for physical health. Exercise helps manage mental health issues such as depression. The Pender Pawzapalooza provides and awesome opportunity to enjoy time outside with pets and to learn about the valuable services available at the Pender County Animal Shelter.”
“Our hope is that a large amount of participation will occur and will act as a catalyst for an off-leash dog park in Pender County,” said Horton.
“Behavior issues are one of the top reasons pets are surrendered to the shelter and that often comes from boredom. This park would give owners and their pets a safe, controlled environment to exercise, play and get away from the everyday routine of home and work.”
Rotary Park is located at 100 Industrial Dr. in Burgaw.
For more information contact the Pender County Tourism Office at 910-259-1536.
