By Lindsey Rowland
lrowland@wbcowqel.com
It is a truth universally acknowledged that a man with man’s best friend will be in want of a venue to celebrate such a bond. That opportunity presented itself on Saturday, when the Crawford County Humane Society held its annual Paws Walk.
The Paws Walk is a fundraiser that is a yearly opportunity for people to bring donations to the shelter, spend time with family and friends, win prizes, and take a walk with the very animals that are being celebrated.
The day started with a 5K beginning at 8:30 and, despite there being some rain with which to contend, 11 runners came out and a good chunk of funds was raised for the shelter’s operations. After the finish line had been crossed, the event held a myriad of different activities that included the Paws Walk itself, which when out in waves at 10, 11 and noon. The walk stood at the heart of the day, as it was the chance for anyone to simply take a stroll with their pet.
From 11 to 1 p.m., local veterinarians volunteered their time at a discount rabies and microchip clinic, which turned out to be extremely successful and well-utilized.
Tricia Breighner has been on the board of directors for the Human Society for six years, and is currently serving as the board president. When asked about the importance of the Paws Walk, Breighner said, “I think it’s just an opportunity to come out and show off the dog that you adopted from us in the first place…how well they’re thriving and how much fun you’re having.”
When commenting on why she works so diligently with the organization, she commented by saying, “I’ve always loved animals and I can’t take them all home, so I try to donate my time and my money whenever I’m able.”
Breighner might not have been able to take home a dog on Saturday, but Marsha Scholl, who found out about the event on Facebook, decided that it was the perfect time for her new addition.
While walking out of the shelter as the proud new owner of the small dog she held in her arms, Scholl said, “I love dogs and I’ve been wanting to have one for a while and I thought the best way to do that was to adopt.”
For more information on the Crawford County Humane Society, visit the website at www.crawfordhumane.com.