Monday, September 15, 2014

Wag `n Trail brings together people and dogs to hike for homeless pets

Dogs and hiking. If you’re like most Coloradans, you’re a sucker for both. For the 10th year in a row, the Dumb Friends League is combining the two into one quintessentially Colorado event.

The 10th annual Dumb Friends League Wag `n Trail takes place on Saturday, Sept. 20, from 8 a.m. to noon at Glendale Farm Open Space (just a short 15-minute drive south of Denver). The event is a fundraiser to benefit the homeless pets at the League’s south location, the Buddy Center, in Castle Rock.

Wag `n Trail starts with a short and leisurely 1.6-mile hike at your own pace through scenic rolling hills, and also features dozens of vendors, demonstrations, local food trucks, music, adoptable dogs and fun for both two- and four-legged participants. Fido can also enjoy the five-acre, off-leash dog park located near the trailhead.

“This is one of our favorite events of the year,” said Kelly Tribelhorn, Buddy Center director. “It not only helps support the Buddy Center and the services we provide to the pets and people of Douglas County, it’s also a fun opportunity to get outdoors, bring Coloradans and their dogs together and support a wonderful cause.”

Registration is free, but attendees are encouraged to fundraise to receive additional event perks. Participants who raise at least $75 will receive an official Wag `n Trail event T-shirt, GoodTimes ice cream (for you and your pooch), and a commemorative family photo to take home. All the money raised at Wag `n Trail helps the Dumb Friends League provide shelter, medical care, behavior training and foster care to homeless pets in need at the Buddy Center.

As the only animal shelter serving Douglas County, the Buddy Center plays a vital role in reuniting owners with lost pets and finding loving homes for thousands of unwanted cats, dogs and small pets each year.

The 2014 Wag `n Trail is sponsored by Hill’s Science Diet®, HomeAgain, Frontline Plus and Heartgard Plus. For more information on how to register, start a team, collect pledges or earn prizes, visit ddfl.org/WNT, or call (303) 751-5772, Ext. 1378.