Event to benefit Humane Pennsylvania

Community members who love their pets and want to help animals in need are invited to take a short drive to Reading to participate in the 46th annual Walk for the Animals, presented by Humane Pennsylvania (Humane PA). The event will be held once again this year at Jim Dietrich Park, 4899 Stoudts Ferry Bridge Road, Reading, on Saturday, May 6, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

In addition to the fundraising walk, attendees will have an opportunity to take part in contests and enjoy food and beverages, shopping from local vendors and live entertainment.

People are invited to register to take part in the scenic walk along the Schuylkill River. "It's about a mile-long walk along the trail. It is a leisurely walk-at-your-own-pace (event)," said Maggie McDevitt, Humane PA media specialist. "It is free and open to the public and family-friendly, but we encourage people to register to walk because it's a donation that goes directly to the care of the animals." She noted that same-day registrations for the walk will also be accepted.

McDevitt noted that walkers are welcome to bring their dogs for the stroll along the river. "Some of the people with older dogs carry them in strollers," she said, adding, "(The Walk for the Animals) is truly a way to get people together and to do something with their dogs while fundraising as well."

Also featured during the day will be live music from Dibbs and the Detonators, a VIP beer and wine garden, food trucks, children's activities and displays by crafters and vendors. There will also be representatives from nonprofit organizations on hand, including the Animal Rescue League of Berks County, Birdsboro. Nonprofits will be able to set up a table for free at the walk. Humane PA will offer information about adoptable pets.

McDevitt said that a crowd favorite at the walk every year is the dog contests that pups and owners can participate in together. Dog contest categories will include Best-Dressed, Best Smile, Best Tailwagger, Best Trick and Best Pet/Owner Look-Alike. Preregistration for the dog contests is not required. Participants will be asked to meet at the entertainment stage around 12:30 p.m. Dog contest winners will receive a Humane PA swag bag filled with gifts for both humans and canines.

For more information or to register for the walk, visit http://www.humanepa.org and choose "Events" and then "Walk for the Animals." There will be separate fees for adults and for youths age 17 and under. There is also an option to take part in a virtual walk and to register as a VIP Walker, which includes added benefits.

Questions about the walk can be directed to Nicole Koch, events and interim volunteer coordinator, at nkoch@humanepa.org or 610-750-6100, ext. 232.