Press Release

Press Release
April 30, 2008
For Immediate Release
Contact: Mary “Tief” Tiefenbrunn, Executive Director
Phone: 217-344-7297
Email: director@cuhumane.org

Centennial Park is Going To the Dogs . . . in a good way

(Urbana, IL) On Saturday morning, May 3, 2008, dogs and their humans will take to the park to show their support for the Champaign County Humane Society (CCHS). Mutt Strut 2008 is an annual event held by CCHS to raise funds and celebrate the bond we share with our canine companions.

Registration for the Strut begins at 8:00 a.m. at Centennial Park. The entry fee is $30 per dog/person team if paid in advance, or $35 on the morning of the Strut. Entrants will receive a Mutt Strut T-shirt and goodie bag.

A blessing of the animals will be given at 8:45 and at 9:00 the walk around the park begins.

After the walk (starting at 9:45), participants can enjoy a number of dog-friendly activities. Dogs with artistic talent will have the opportunity to create their masterpiece with non-toxic paints. Athletic dogs can try their paws at Canine Agility. Humans and dogs that aren’t seeing eye-to-eye might want to visit the “Ask The Behaviorist” booth for some free advice.

At 10:30, the dog-human contests begin! Prizes will be awarded in the egg race, best trick, most unusual trick, best handshake, best owner/dog look alike, and fastest tail wag championships.

Many Mutt Strut participants have already registered for Mutt Strut and have been hard at work seeking sponsorships for their walk. To date, walkers have raised over $7,000 to help the Champaign County Humane Society cover its animal care expenses.

For more information about Mutt Strut, visit www.cuhumane.org.

The Champaign County Humane Society is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization dedicated to preventing animal cruelty, promoting animal welfare, and educating the public about humane care and treatment of animals. The CCHS receives no government funding and is not affiliated with any national organizations.

Mutt Strut Rules

  • -All dogs must be on a standard (6-foot) leash (retractable leashes will not be allowed.)
  • -Proof of rabies vaccination is required at check-in (current tag or certificate.)
  • -CCHS reserves the right to prohibit participation of any dog displaying aggressive behavior toward people or other dogs.
  • -More than one person may accompany each registered dog.
  • -Dog handlers must be at least 18 years old.
  • -Participants must clean up after their dogs.

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