By Rebecca Edwards
Contributor
There are some new features at this year’s Elk Valley Paws for a Cause event, which raises money for the East Kootenay SPCA shelter in Cranbrook.
The third annual event will take place on Sunday, September 18 at Fernie Aquatic Centre from 11am – 3pm.
Dogs and their humans have a choice of a short 1.5km walk along Second Ave, or an extended 4km walk/run along Brewery Creek and Coal Creek Heritage Trail.
There will be activities from 12 noon onwards, including an agility demonstration by Fernie trainer Denise McKay, a demonstration by the Southern Alberta Working Herding Dogs Association, a Scent Hurdling Race demonstration by Due South team, and a demonstration by the Canadian Avalanche Rescue Dogs Association.
There will also be a talk on pet first aid by Dr David Marion, who owns A Country Animal Hospital in Eureka and is opening the new vet clinic in Fernie.
Fernie photographer Todd Weselake will take portraits of pets and their humans, donating 50 per cent of all sales to the Paws for a Cause total.
Local artisans and businesses are invited to set up market booths at the event.
“We know that people in this area enjoy long walks with their dog,” said organizer Chantal Serwatkewich. “So we wanted to give them a choice of routes. We also hope that being downtown will help raise awareness of the event.
“The Paws for a Cause walk is a great way to socialize your dog with dozens of other dogs of all shapes and sizes, while also raising money for a great cause.”
• Walk registration begins at 11am on Sunday outside Fernie Aquatic Centre. Adults walk for a suggested donation of $10, kids and dogs walk for free.
Dog medals are available for four-legged participants for $5 minimum donation.