Each October since October 2001, we have held a fundraising event called the Mutt Strut.  This event provides an opportunity for dog owners to take their dogs for a walk and raise money to help homeless animals.  It’s a wonderful event that we always look forward to and enjoy.

Since Mutt Strut 2011, we have been very busy.  We have taken in approximately 5,000 dogs and cats, plus a few hundred other companion animals.  We have completed and opened our E. Stuart James Grant Adoption Center, expanded our transfer program, expanded our volunteer program, and have helped spay/neuter 1,500 animals in Pittsylvania County and Danville. Not bad for a year’s work.

We are also thrilled to announce that our euthanasia rate for dogs has gone done about 30%.

Our fundraising efforts continue to be a vital part of supporting our work to help the animals.  This year, Mutt Strut 2012 will be held on October 6, in partnership with the River Fest.  That is not the only change in the Mutt Strut.

This year, registration will begin at 9:00 in the Newtons Landing parking lot (not far from the Community Market).  We will have a blessing of the animals at 9:30 by Rev. Vanessa Falgoust from West End Christian Church, and the walk begins at 9:40.  As usual, we will have treats for the dogs and humans.

The first 75 people who register and pay a total of $35 will receive a free event t-shirt. Those dogs may also complete a free mini-paw painting.  An addition that may be of interest to cat owners is the availability of “My Cat Napped During the Mutt Strut” t-shirts.  Cat owners may donate $35 to the Mutt Strut and receive a shirt.

We will also have a booth all day in Showcase Alley.  We have lots of t-shirts designs, plus other items for animal lovers to buy, give, and receive as gifts.

Please come and enjoy the day.  Next year, we will report that we have been able to help thousands of animals, in part because of the money raised on October 6^th.  We hope to see you and your dogs!

We had a small list of sponsors for our first Mutt Strut, and that list has steadily grown.  We are very grateful to our sponsors:  Animal Medical Center, Brosville Animal Clinic, Cherrystone Animal Hospital, Custom Alterations, Danville Orthopedic Clinic, Donald G. Cairns, D.D.S., F. T. Grogan, III, D.D.S., J. J. Hogan Towing, Lauren and Adam Jones, LeggettTown & Country, Malcolm J. Mallery, D.D.S., Moss Home Improvement, Mount Hermon Animal Clinic, PRUDENTIAL Manasco Realty, Frances J. Pruitt, Susanne and Joel Singer, WBTM 1330/WAKG FM 103.3.