Dogs and Humans Invited To Bark For Life Saturday

Dogs, owners, and dog-lovers are invited to take part in Bark For Life Saturday, a fun dog-friendly version of Relay for Life that will benefit the American Cancer Society.

I've only missed one Bark For Life event, and I look forward to it each year. WVII-TV's Craig Colson and I host the event that features some fun dog-friendly games, like the 'Fur-thest traveled,' Longest Tail, and a Dog/Owner Lookalike contest. My own little guy, Copernicus, won that in the past along with my fiance, Jim. (they have similar chin-whiskers!) Owners have been encouraged to dress up their pups in the past, to compete in a costume contest. And we've even asked for the loudest bark! (try THAT in a field full of dogs. It gets loud!)

While games are being played, and food is being consumed, there are lots of vendors who will share their information about dog products and services. You might find a doggy-daycare type facility that you've wondered about, or a line of care products that you want more information about. Representatives will be there to answer your questions and give plenty of love to your four-legged friend!

And that's really what this event is all about. The dogs. Canine companions can give so much comfort and healing to folks battling cancer, that the American Cancer Society wanted to find a way to recognize them, and all the dogs who offer unconditional friendship and love to us each day. So dogs are not only invited, but participants are encouraged to bring them! And, if you don't have your own dog but really love them, you're also encouraged to stop by. There are plenty of animals to adore!

One big change to this year's Bark for Life is the walk around the track. Traditionally, it's been one lap at sunset around the Hollywood Casino Raceway track, which is lined with luminaries labeled with the names of those affected by cancer. But this year, organizers have decided to do 3 individual laps. The cool part about this is that, if you want to walk but your dog is getting antsy, you don't have to wait until the end of the event! Hopefully this will make the day a lot easier on dogs and owners alike.

Bark for Life runs from 5:30 to 8 p.m. this Saturday at the Hollywood Casino Raceway, behind the Cross Insurance Center. You can sign up early online, or register on your way into the event. I hope to see you and your dog there! (cats are not allowed, for obvious reasons)