Animal Humane's 28th Annual Doggie Dash & Dawdle Supports Critical Programs

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., Oct. 18 /PRNewswire/ -- Lace up those tennis shoes, stretch your legs and gather up the kids (furry or otherwise). Animal Humane | New Mexico's 28th Doggie Dash & Dawdle is November 7th from 9 a.m. to noon at Balloon Fiesta Park in Albuquerque.

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The event is essential in funding New Mexico's only low-cost veterinary clinic for low-income pet owners. Proceeds also provide funds for animal adoption and support Animal Humane's Pet Behavior Helpline.

"You'll see dogs in every shape, size and age—but mostly, it's a way to celebrate the special relationship that we have with our dogs," Animal Humane's Executive Director Peggy Weigle said. "Dash is our largest fundraiser and most popular event of the year. So popular, in fact, we have to close our adoption locations so all of our staff and volunteers can come."

Event organizers are offering activities and events that are designed to please all ages of humans and pets. There are three races: the 5K Human-Only Dash; 5K Animal-Friendly Dash; and 2-Mile Dawdle—which is a walk with hundreds of other canines for company. There will be a Pet Plaza, which features what is sure to be a one-stop shopping experience for two-and-four-legged friends with more than 40 pet-friendly vendors showcasing their products and services. Adoptable pets will be on-hand at the event as well from Animal Humane and other rescue groups.

In addition, Animal Humane's popular "rent-a-dog" booth is back for those that want to show an adoptable homeless pet a good time. Animal Humane will also provide pet microchipping for $20.

There will also be a Dash Bash, or dog carnival, featuring:

• bobbing for hot dogs
• paw print painting
• pup photo booth
• off-leash dog park
• contests, including "best trick" and "best look alike"

The Doggie Dash & Dawdle began in 1982 with 200 participants. It is now New Mexico's largest social event for dogs and their caregivers, bringing together about 2,000 participants and 1,000 spectators.

The presenting sponsor of this year's event is Albuquerque's Garcia Subaru. "We're big animal supporters," General Manager Ryan Newhall said. "Our customers pull up with pets in their Subarus and all of our staff has pets. Supporting Animal Humane is a good fit for us."

The entry fee is $25 for adults and $10 for children (12 and under) until October 29. After October 29 the entry fee is $30 for adults and $15 for children. In-person registration is available at REI at 1550 Mercantile Ave. NE (until Nov. 4th) or participants can register in person at Balloon Fiesta Park at 4401 Alameda Blvd. NE, on the day of the event. Spectators are encouraged to make a $2 donation. Parking is free.

For more details, registration, or to build a team, go to animalhumanenm.org or call (505) 255-5523.

SOURCE Animal Humane New Mexico