Walking The Dog Can Support Canine Advocates

By Kendra Bobowick

They are a common sight: the neighbor down the street who walks her retriever passes by around dinnertime; the woman with the Dachshund who regularly patrols Main Street, and plenty of dogs and their owners who are always sharing the serene streets at Fairfield Hills.

Every homeowner in town can likely point to a house where the pug, the Lab, the shepherd, or the border collie lives — all accompanied by a little boy, young lady, or parent to walk them daily. Why not sponsor that person who is tugged along by their dog’s leash after school or work?

On behalf of Canine Advocates of Newtown (CAN), the organization’s President Virginia Jess is promoting the first Dogathon in town to benefit CAN’s efforts to support not only a new pound, but to contribute to the pound pets’ daily needs while they wait for a home.

“We put so much money toward the new pound that our vet funds are low,” Ms Jess said.

Become a sponsor. Pledge any amount for each mile a dog walker covers between May 25 through Sunday, June 8. There are no age restrictions. Everyone is welcome.

Prizes will be awarded to the top three fundraisers. Coinciding with Canine Advocate Fun Day June 22 at Newtown Middle School, the three winners will receive their prizes — still to be announced — and will be crowned king, queen, prince, or princess of the Fun Day.

Funds raised will be used for veterinary care and other necessities for the animals at the pound. Pledge sheets are available at the library or contact Ms Jess at 426-5327.

More than one person can sponsor a dog walker. Total funds raised should be mailed by check, made out to Canine Advocates of Newtown Inc., PO Box 236, Newtown CT 06470. Checks must be mailed before June 15.