Dog Jog welcomes 2-, 4-legged participants
It wasn’t just people running in a 5K race and mile-and-a half-walk Saturday.
Dogs were part of the trot, too.
And if you were Jasmine, a 3-year-old miniature golden Labrador retriever, you wouldn’t have wanted to stop.
“We were on vacation last week so she’s been cooped up for a few days,” owner Liz Reily said. “We got her out last night when we came home but knew this was going to be better for her.”
And even after the race, though tied to a leash, Jasmine still attempted to get Reily to run a little more.
“She’s got a lot of energy right now,” Reily said.
About 150 people and 75 dogs participated in the eighth annual Dog Jog and Walk at the Centre County Grange Encampment and Fair grounds, which supported Pets Come First.
The organization is a Potter Township-based animal rescue and shelter.
The goal this year was to raise more than $10,000 toward general operations, shelter manager Deb Warner said.
Saturday’s event also included pet vendors and an agility course.
Mellie, a 4-year-old Yorkie, nearly escaped her leash as she ran up and back down an agility pyramid.
The 5-pound dog didn’t have a problem with speed, or height of the obstacle.
But it was different for her brother.
Cooper, a 6-year-old Doberman who followed, made it to the top, but couldn’t get back down without the help of owners Michael and Rae Hosterman.
“He’s a big baby,” Rae Hosterman said with a laugh.
The Hostermans participated in the event for the fourth time.
It’s a big part of us. We’ve adopted from here before. We’re big advocates of animal care and feel really fortunate there is a facility like this in our area
Rae Hosterman
participant“It’s a big part of us,” Rae Hosterman said. “We’ve adopted from here before. We’re big advocates of animal care and feel really fortunate there is a facility like this in our area.”
The event was started eight years ago by former members of Pets Come First.
“We’re just keeping the tradition,” event organizer Nicole DeFazio said. “It helps us financially, but we’re happy with just bringing people out, spreading awareness about Pets Come First and having a good time.”
Britney Milazzo: 814-231-4648, @M11azzo
IF YOU GO
Next Pets Come First fundraiser
What: 2016 Wine Tasting: Take the Back Road
When: 5-8 p.m. May 14
Where: Seven Mountains Wine Cellars
Admission: $25 per individuals, $40 a pair
Other: Includes live entertainment by Jason Thomas
This story was originally published April 30, 2016 at 5:05 PM with the headline "Dog Jog welcomes 2-, 4-legged participants."