The Canine Classic: Humane Society of Western Montana and The Resort at Paws Up Sponsor Race For Two- And Four-Legged Friends To Benefit Local Shelter

MISSOULA, Mont., Sept. 16, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The Resort at Paws Up® is opening their hearts and one-in-a-million location for a fifth time to benefit homeless animals in western Montana and help the Humane Society maintain their 98% adoption rate. The annual Canine Classic at The Resort at Paws Up - a trail run/hike for you and your dog(s) – will take place Sunday, September 22^nd. Participants will zip through the trail system on the beautiful private grounds of the resort in Greenough, MT knowing that all proceeds will benefit the Humane Society of Western Montana. Several shelter dogs will be available to accompany you on your run or walk if you don't have a dog. Hikers/runners can choose from a 2- or 5- or 13-mile hike or timed runs.

Participants who choose to fundraise will earn one raffle ticket for each $270 they raise ($270 covers intake costs for one animal at the Humane Society). The winner of the raffle will win a one-night stay for two at Paws Up, including dinner at the Resort's award-winning restaurant, Pomp®. This year, the person who raises the most pledges for the shelter will win a two-night glamping (glamorous camping) getaway at Paws Up.

"The Canine Classic is a great chance for people to bring their pups and enjoy the beautiful Resort at Paws Up," explained Angie Myers, Development Officer. "The scenery is the finest Montana has to offer, and if you don't bring your own dog to the event, you can choose to run with one of our shelter dogs."

All the money raised from the Canine Classic will go straight to the shelter to help with the care of animals. This year's goal is $30,000. The money helps with operational costs, including dog/cat food, vaccinations and daily care for each pet until adoption. The Humane Society's adoption rate for 2012 was 99.21%.

To register and/or sign up to collect pledges visit www.firstgiving.com/hswm or call 406-549-3934 x206. You'll enjoy a hike (length of your choice) followed by complimentary gourmet BBQ lunch and beverages. Participants can also register an hour before the event at the race site. Those interested in running or walking with a shelter dog should call the Humane Society prior to the event to arrange the details.

About the Humane Society of Western Montana: Established in 1963, we're the first humane organization to serve Missoula County. Through the efforts of our members, founders and staff, we have successfully rallied for responsible pet ownership and consistent spaying and neutering, leading to a remarkable decline in homeless pets in our community. We help over 1,400 pets per year, provide services to help keep pets in their homes, and maintain a 98% adoption rate. For the past 50 years, the Humane Society of Western Montana has been bringing people and pets together, and we thank those who support us and enable us to achieve our mission of Saving Every Animal. Every Time.

For more information about The Resort at Paws Up visit www.pawsup.com

SOURCE Humane Society of Western Montana