October 12, 2016 at 3:43 p.m.
Dogs to take a bite out of cancer at Bark in the Dark Oct. 15
Unique fundraiser planned for dogs, owners
Dogs to take a bite out of cancer at Bark in the Dark Oct. 15
By Kayla Thomason-
"Northwoods area pooches, with owners in tow, will take to digging up a cure for cancer," the release states. "Bark in the Dark adds a twist to the Society's traditional Relay For Life and Bark For Life events, serving as a 'Howloween' fundraising activity to honor the care-giving qualities of canine companions while supporting the mission of the American Cancer Society. Last year the regional Northwoods event was No. 4 in the nation, raising over $11,800, thanks to the generosity of donors and major sponsors including Northern Paws Animal Hospital, Ministry Health Care, TLC Dog Training by Carol Lofquist, Ripco Credit Union, Oldenburg Group and more."
This event is one of several canine events planned by the Bark For Life committee. The event will start with registration at 5:30 p.m. and festivities starting at 6 p.m. It will wrap up by 8 p.m. There will be a costume contests for dogs only, couple contest for owners and pets, and a themed contest. This year's theme is "Come to the Bark Side, Our Force Will Conquer Cancer." Those dressing their pets in the Star Wars theme will compete for a special themed costume prize. There will also be games for the dogs, refreshments and more. A glow walk will be held to remember and honor those who have battled cancer - both human and pets. Glow necklaces will be provided, but participants are welcome to glow on their own, organizers said.
Amanda Parish will take professional portraits for a donation, and Dandy Dog will do nail trims for a donation. The Big Ticket Drawing will also help raise funds for the mission. Prizes include a Three Lakes Getaway with a two-night stay in a luxury one-bedroom condo at the Northernaire in Three Lakes, and dining gift certificate at The Black Forest; a wooden barrister bookcase made and donated by McNaughton Correctional Facility; up to three hours of deejay service from Mixin Matt, one year free Precise Holistic Dog Food donated by Pawz and Clawz; autographed Green Bay Packers football donated by the Packers; $50 Gas Card, donated by Gas Depot in Crandon, a Wine Basket donated by Community Connect and more. Tickets are $5 each and are available at the event and at several locations throughout the community. Tickets are also being sold by Relay For Life teams.
In addition to all that, the order forms for the famous Wisconsin Cheese Sale will be at the event for preordering cheese for the upcoming holiday season. There is a large assortment of bulk and spread cheeses available as well as Usinger Sausage. There will also be the annual Bark For Life calendar available, which features local area dogs who participate in the canine events.
Pups attending will receive a trick-or-treat bag. These are available while supplies last. Those who plan to attend should call 715-891-2061 to pre-register their dog and be sure there is a bag reserved for them.
Registration is $10 per dog. Owners are asked to make sure their dogs are up to date on shots and are on a 6-foot leash.
"Many pet owners consider their dogs a part of their family, especially those furry friends who lend a great amount of comfort and support during a loved one's cancer battle," said Kristin Antosh, one of the event leads. "Bark in the Dark brings people and their pets together for a very family friendly movement that celebrates our canine caregivers, just as we honor other family members who support their loved ones who are fighting cancer during Relay For Life. The event also provides local dog owners with a way to spend time with others who love dogs, whether you bring your own or come out to watch!"
To register or make a donation to the regional Northwoods event, contact Diane Geis, senior community manager, at 715-891-2061.
"Last year we had a wonderful time. The costumes for both dogs and their owners were really creative; it was hard for the judges to choose winners," she said.
"To mention a few there was a group of dogs that came as The 'Village Pupple,' Michael Phelps, Pumpkin Spice Latte, a love bug, and a 'dead' bride, and groom with their skeleton dog. It was great to see how much fun people had celebrating Halloween with their dogs. Many people are looking forward to having the party again this fall," said Geis.
Funds raised through these canine events support the American Cancer Society's comprehensive cancer-fighting mission to help people stay well by preventing cancer or detecting it early, to help people get well by being there for them during and after a cancer diagnosis, to find cures through investment in groundbreaking discovery, and to fight back against cancer by rallying lawmakers to pass laws to defeat cancer and by rallying communities worldwide to join the fight.
Comments:
You must login to comment.