Under sunny skies on September 14, dogs of all shapes and sizes romped, played, and walked with their human companions to raise money for PAWS. Bark in the Park^SM featuring PAWSwalk^SM raised much-needed funds to benefit the Companion Animal Shelter, Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, and advocacy and outreach programs.

Nearly 1,000 people registered and walked the 5K PAWSwalk route along the scenic paths at Seattle’s Sand Point Magnuson Park. There was a lot of suspense among the PAWSwalkers over who would win the grand prize (a Las Vegas trip for two). The crowd cheered in delight when Rose Wong was announced as the top fundraiser, having brought in $4,701.

“I don’t believe this,” Wong exclaimed as she made her way to the Iams Music Stage to claim her prize. “I worked so hard to raise as much money as I could for the animals. I’m so happy!” Awards were also given to the second- and third- place winners. In the youth category (12 years old and younger), the winner raised more than $750 and went home with a new Microsoft XBox and several games. Eleven corporate teams participated this year, with Boeing taking the lead with more than 30 people on its team!

Another 6,000 people joined the PAWSwalkers at the Bark in the Park festival and enjoyed meeting celebrity guest, Breezy, the beagle on the new Star Trek series Enterprise and Washington State Patrol officer Steve Genoway and his canine partner Vader. The day featured live jazz, zany dog contests, competitions, animal-friendly vendor booths, arts and crafts, and delicious vegetarian cuisine.

Join us next year on September 6 at Sand Point Magnuson Park for lots more fun.