On Oct. 5, there was only one place to get dog kisses, see a dog costume contest and watch a dog agility demonstration, all while walking to help homeless animals. It was at Humane Society Silicon Valley’s 11th Annual Walk ‘n Wag.
Each year, HSSV raises much-needed funds through the event – funds that will go to providing medical care, shelter, and food to the thousands of animals that come through HSSV’s doors each year.
“The total raised for Walk ‘n Wag is $226,000, which is amazing,” said HSSV President Carol Novello as she addressed the crowd of hundreds of dog owners and their pets. “Thank you so much for all you did to make that possible and for how many animals that’s going to help in our community.”
To change it up from events past, this year’s Walk ‘n Wag was held at San Jose’s Hellyer Park, allowing the organization to do two walks – a 5k and a 3/4 mile.
Many dogs came dressed up in costumes. There were the three black labs – Waters, Tamila and Sophie – who came dressed up as the headless horseman’s horse, a bumblebee, and flower, respectively. Other dogs dressed up as well. There was a shark, pirate, chef, and bagpiper, among others.
Over at the kissing booth, dogs were giving away free kisses to anyone who needed a little lift to their day, and across the lawn, vendors were selling animal-related items or promoting the services they offer. HSSV put on a dog agility show, showcasing the skills that can be learned through training, and there was a crafts booth for kids. Additionally, Barefoot Coffee Roasters, The Louisiana Territory, No Way Jose, and Mona’s Fruits were there with food trucks. And, HSSV’s mascot, Scamp, posed for pictures and got the walk started right.
Just after 10 a.m., on Scamp’s direction, the DJ played Baha Men’s “Who Let the Dogs Out?” and the 5k walkers and their dogs were off, taking a leisurely stroll through the park while getting their daily exercise. At 10:30 a.m., those walking the 3/4-mile began their much shorter trek.
After the walks were complete, the costume contest began, with a Mexican Hairless dog who came dressed up for her own wedding (as a bride and groom carrying a cake) taking the top spot.
“Thank you to all of our folks that have helped grow Walk ‘n Wag to what it is today and all of the wonderful, wonderful animals in our community that are going to find homes because of [their] support,” said Novello.
NVIDIA was the event’s presenting sponsor. Petco Foundation was the event’s platinum sponsor and TiVo and GoDaddy were silver sponsors. Visit www.hssv.org for more information on Humane Society Silicon Valley.
