Winners were: Jayne Neitzel's Ginger won with a clown outfit; Curt Pynnonen was second with Hawaiian beach togs on Shadow; and Nicki Watkins' Norman was dressed as a farmer.

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Woof, Woof! Humane Society Pet Walk
Draws 49 Dogs, Owners, Too

Event is Fun, and Fundraiser; Upcoming, U.S. Dog Agility Competition

May 19, 2007
By: Dave Rogers

Dogs and their owners had a great time Saturday at the Bay County Fairgrounds.

They dressed up.

Had a parade.

Played games.

Ate treats. (Dogs only; owners ate hot dogs, whoops, frankfurters.)

The event was the Dogs 'n Us Pet Walk, a benefit event for the Humane Society of Bay County.

An outstanding turnout of 49 dogs and owners paraded, said Karen Burns, former Bay County Animal Control director, a board member of the Humane Society.

Elaine Edwards and Debbie Andrews were co-chairpersons of the very successful Pet Walk.

Booths for vendors in one of the fair buildings were busy; food stands were hopping; dogs and owners were strutting their stuff.

The costume competition was probably the most fun. Jayne Neitzel's Ginger won with a clown outfit; Curt Pynnonen was second with Hawaiian beach togs on Shadow; and Nicki Watkins' Norman was dressed as a farmer, complete with coveralls and trowels in his pocket.

Dee Dee Wacksman was disappointed that her black Labrador didn't win the costume contest. He was dressed as Superman but Dee Dee explained that time ran short to teach him to fly.

The purpose of the society is the prevention of cruelty to animals, the relief of suffering among animals, and the extension of humane education.

President Debra Andrews said the group's statement of purpose includes: "Our goal is to improve the health and welfare of the animals in our community, to educate the public into becoming responsible animal owners and to be a part of a new community shelter with an education center."

The group will be sponsoring an unusual event Aug. 25-27 at the fairgrounds: the United States Dog Agility Association competition.###