30th annual Doggie Dash is May 13th
The largest and oldest humane society in the Pacific Northwest, the Oregon Humane Society boasts a fantastic 97% save rate. Established in 1868, the organization is admired and respected in the community, evidenced by another strong showing in the Top Dog Awards this year.
Rescuing, healing and adopting more than 11,600 pets annually is made possible by the hard work and compassion of 180 animal-loving full-time staff and over 2,000 volunteers. The organization also offers ongoing workshops on training, TTouch, pet massage, managing multi-pet households, managing behaviorally-challenged pets and more. Other OHS services include animal rescue, emergency response, treating abused animals, spay/neuter, and medical care.
Supported 100% by private donations and fundraisers, OHS’s Doggie Dash is perhaps the largest, most popular annual pet event in Portland.
“We are thrilled to be celebrating our 30th year on May 13th,” says Barbara Baugnon, OHS Vice President of Marketing and Communications. This is our largest fundraiser and biggest event — more than 8,000 people come out with over 3,000 dogs of all breeds and sizes. It really is a citywide celebration, and the largest dog walk on the west coast! Our goal this year is to raise $675,000.” In addition to the walk, Doggie Dash includes a large Vendor Village, contests, treats, and even human chair massages. “Because it’s our 30th anniversary this year, we are doing a throw-back to 1987 [the first year], with a neon color theme,” says Baugnon.
Among its many accolades, OHS — and specifically, Doggie Dash — have been Top Dog winners most years. “We are absolutely honored to win in so many Top Dog categories, as it means we are relevant and right on track. Oregonians have always loved, cared for, and respected their pets. I love that we have been here in the same spot for 148 years, and that there are pets buried here in our cemetery dating back to 1920. We have grown to a 46,000 square-foot animal shelter, and another 22,000 square-foot animal medical center, with three surgery suites, radiology, recovery rooms, and even a pharmacy.”
Details and to register at OregonHumane.org.
Melinda Thompson is a freelance writer with a degree in Speech Communications and a coveted "Ducktorate" from the Walt Disney World Company. She has been featured in many local magazines and newspapers. She lives in Vancouver USA with her husband, son and daughter.