Hopkinton – Baypath Humane Society of Hopkinton, Inc. will be holding its annual “Bark in the Park” fundraiser from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 23 at the Split Rock Group Area in Hopkinton State Park. Renowned animal behaviorist Dr. Nicholas Dodman, Holliston's own Police K-9 duo, Officer Matt Stone and “Cesh,” and “Lilly the Hero Pit Bull” will be among those joining in the festivities.
There will be two walks for attendees to participate in – 1.5 or 3.5 miles. Individuals and teams may ?sign up as walkers and create a personal pledge page at www.baypathhumane.org. If one isn's able to attend, they are urged to register as a virtual walker, enabling participation from anywhere. A pledge page registration is $15 for adults or teams/families and $5 for youngsters to participate. All walkers who raise $100 or more will be recognized at the event, with the top fundraisers receiving prizes.
Dodman is a bestselling author and regular contributor to Animal Planet and other TV and radio programs. He will be on hand to share insights into animal behavior and will also be available throughout the day to answer pet owners” questions. Visitors can also purchase his books, including “Dogs Behaving Badly” and “If Only They Could Speak.”
Stone and K-9 partner Cesh will be providing an obedience and scent discrimination demonstration. Lilly the Hero Pit Bull??”who risked her own safety to rescue her owner from an oncoming train, in turn losing one of her front legs – will be present, offering kisses at her booth. She will also serve as the Honorary Canine Marshal of the Alumni Parade.
Now in its 13th year, Bark in the Park offers something for everyone, organizers said, including scenic walk routes, delicious lunch from the grill, the popular silent auction, an expanded Kids” Corner (professional face painting, a bouncy house and more), pet-related vendors, animal rescue booths and more.
New this year, Baypath will be welcoming food trucks including Vesta Wood-Fired Mobile Pizza, Kismet Catering (hot dogs and cannolis), Velma's Kettle Corn, and cupcakes from CocoBeni Confections.
“Bark is the Park is such a cherished, vital event for the shelter,” said Brenda Halloran-Donald of Baypath Humane Society. “Bark participants and their supporters enable us to promote the care and adoption of our animals. Demand for Baypath's services ?is as strong as ever, and we have big dreams for the future, which are only possible via the help of our wonderful supporters.”
Event organizers are also extending an invitation to local vendors to host exhibit tables during the event, which attracts hundreds of animal lovers each year. Booth space is just $50.00 each (fee waived for non-profits/rescues), and support the Baypath's work to find well-matched, loving homes for more than 1,000 dogs and cats each year. Exhibitors can register for booth at
http://bit.ly/11ABfJO.
Incorporated in 1977, Baypath Humane Society is a non-kill, 501c-3 shelter. For more information visit www.BaypathHumane.org.