Rainy, windy weather didn't dampen the spirits of the 661 animal lovers who turned out on October 4th for the Seattle Humane Society's sixth annual Walk for the Animals. The walkers, more than double the number from last year, raised more than $65,000 in donations – money that will provide food, shelter and medical care to the over 5,000 animals who are aided by the Seattle Humane Society every year.

The event was an all-day celebration of the bond between animals and humans. The festivities began with a breakfast for the human participants and then dogs of every size, from Chihuahua to Great Dane, led their two-footed companions along the 5k course on the Burke-Gilman Trail. Before and after the walk, the University Village awash in blue and green – t-shirts on the people and scarves on the dogs. Be sure to check out the Walk's online photo album - you and your canine companion may be there!

The Max Mobile at the Walk

The Max Mobile was in attendance with dogs, cats, and small animals from the shelter. Five kittens and two dogs were adopted on the spot. I was completely charmed by Tobias, an easy-going 10-year-old Australian Shepherd mix, who was Max's senior participant.

Tobias

Like all the other animals in residence at the Seattle Humane Society, Tobias will have a place at the shelter for as long as it takes to find him a new home. That promise is made possible by the generosity and commitment of the Seattle Humane Society's staff, donors and volunteers; you could see those principles in action at the Walk.

The Humane Team Club formed a cheer squad to welcome the returning walkers to the finish line and to the University Village's FidoFest, which also benefited the Seattle Humane Society. FidoFest, billed as a celebration of all things dog, included refreshments and demonstrations of the obedience, agility, the scent-tracking skills of the dogs of the Seattle Police Department, and a cover photo contest for City Dog Magazine.

It was a great time for everyone who participated by walking, pledging or just turning out. The presenting sponsor of the Walk for the Animals was KOMO 1000 Newsradio and the Walk was also sponsored by AlphaGraphics, Laird Norton Tyee, GoMobile and University Village.

Lynn
lynnseattlehumane@gmail.com