SPCA Walk Brings out the Dogs
On a perfect June day, more than 2,200 humans and their canine companions showed their support for the Anne Arundel County SPCA at the 25th annual Walk for the Animals, rescheduled from its original torrentially rainy May date.
Humans and canines of all shapes and sizes teamed up at the record-breaking event June 19 at Quiet Waters Park for a 5K run and walk. The fur was flying all morning as dogs — both large and small, fluffy and fuzzy — strutted their stuff along the park paths.
More than 80 exhibitors and merchants lined the road and filled the parking lot with offerings of doggie and human treats, info on breed- and age-specific rescue groups and plenty of furry friends looking for a new home.
Not to be outdone by canines, the Kitty Karavan offered a break from the heat inside an air-conditioned RV — full of cats. Other animal guests such as birds, reptiles and amphibians came from Echoes of Nature to show their support for their four-legged cousins. The SPCA rescues and finds homes for animals of all kinds, sometimes for free.
Plenty of animals were busy working the event, proving that not all dogs are lap dogs. Working dogs and their human supporters provided info on groups such as Pets on Wheels. Annapolis Police K-9 units gave demonstrations.
Quiet Waters goes to the dogs again in the SPCA Puppy Plunge August 21.
photos by Audrey Broomfield