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Wags and Whiskers Walk

Community event brings awareness to needs of HSOV

DOUG LOYER Special to the Times Many dogs and people got their exercise during the Wags N Whiskers Paws Walk Sunday in Muskingum Park.

Man’s best friend had a walk in the park Sunday as the Humane Society of the Ohio Valley held it’s Wags and Whiskers Paws Walk in Muskingum Park to raise awareness and funds.

Celeste Ridgway is a rescue and transport coordinator and also oversees the foster program that organizes foster and rescue, which moves dogs out of the local shelter and into rescues.

“We try to move 400-500 dogs a year to other parts of Ohio and even other states,” Ridgway said.

“Fundraisers always help out the shelter as far as support of the daily financial demands. We support ourselves with fundraising events in order to survive,” said Ridgway. “This particular event allows people to bring their furry friends with them and it makes for a fun day.”

Ridgway added, “We have over 40 dogs and over 50 cats available for adoption currently at the shelter. All of our animals come ‘altered’ meaning they have been spayed or neutered and have their shots and worming.”

Saturday’s event featured a dog costume contest, a show-us-your-tricks contest, bobbing for tennis balls, a country store, a paparazzi photo area, face painting for children and, of course, the dog walk.

Another rescue and transport coordinator, Teresa Cunningham said, “This is one of many events we have to raise money for the shelter. Today’s event is fun and family-oriented.”

Volunteer coordinator Jamiann Voshel said, “We try to do regular fundraisers. Our next event is in October. Voshel helps with fundraising for the HSOV. She commented, “I love volunteering for the Humane Society. I’ve been here about a year. I think (about) fundraising 24-7.”

The next fundraiser is the “Spay-ghetti Benefit” on Sunday, Oct. 15 from noon to 5 p.m. at the American Legion in Williamstown. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children. There also will be raffles, a nickel auction and other fun.

Marilyn House of Marietta is a seven year volunteer at the HSOV. She is a transport volunteer. “This is a great socializing event for the dogs. This helps make aware to the public what animals we have for adoption.”

“It’s just a good community event. There’s a lot of fellowship,” continued House. “I think dogs help bring people together. We like seeing a lot of people come to this event.”

House transports dogs to rescue groups in Ohio and other states where an arrangement has been made to find homes for the dogs.

“I hand them over to good homes,” shared House. “When I come home from transporting a dog, I have a happy heart.”

Kathy and Dave Wilhelm, of Marietta, were there with their dog “Sadie” who they adopted from the Humane Society six years ago when the dog was two. Kathy said, “We decided to get a dog and Dave went and picked out Sadie. She’s been a really good dog.”

Dave said, “If a dog has been abused, it will probably be he best dog you’ll ever have because they want to be loved and paid attention to.”

Those interested in donating money or adopting a dog or cat are invited to visit the Humane Society of the Ohio Valley on County House Lane in Marietta. Visit www.HSOV.org or call 740-373-5959. Animals that are available for adoption can be viewed online. Also, the Humane Society of the Ohio Valley is always looking for all types of volunteers.

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