Furever Friends Walk in the Park to help end pet hunger

To help end pet hunger, Friend Inc. Community Services announced that the inaugural Furever Friends Walk in the Park, a family-fun charity dog walk, will be held at Kutztown Park on Sunday, May 18.

This first-year event will bring together pet lovers, families, and local supporters to raise awareness and resources for Friend Inc.’s Pet Food Pantry, which provides essential pet food and supplies to families facing financial hardship.

“We’re proud to launch an event that not only celebrates our furry companions but also supports families who are struggling to feed them,” Friend Inc. Executive Director James Reece said in the announcement. “The goal is simple but impactful — keep pets and their people together by making sure no pet goes hungry.”

The rain or shine dog walk will feature vendor tables, giveaways, pet-friendly fun, and a call for community action. Guests are encouraged to bring donations of unopened pet food and supplies to support the pantry. Choose between two walks — The Puppy Lap is approximately 0.5 miles and The Big Dog Loop is approximately 2 miles.

Check-in begins at 10 a.m. The walk begins at 11 a.m. at the lower brick pavilion. Early registration is $35 per walker through May 17. Day-of event registration is $45 per walker. Pre-registration includes a human T-shirt, a goodie bag, and one bandana per dog while supplies last. Furry walkers are free. For more information, visit https://www.friendinc.org/events/dog-walk/.

Proceeds will be used to support Friend Inc.’s Pet Pantry.

Fundraising awards will be given to the top five teams (human or human/dog) that have raised more than $100 for the walk.

Prizes will be awarded for the Best Dressed Dog, Yappiest, Happiest, Best Puppy Dog Eyes, and Most Spirited.

All children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult. No more than two dogs per walker. Keep your dog on a short non-retractable leash (6’ or shorter). Dogs must wear current ID tags. Vaccinations should be up to date with a rabies tag. You are responsible for your dog’s behavior. No aggressive dogs or dogs in heat, please. Dogs under 6 months of age may be happier at home. Please clean up after your furry friend, bags are available at the registration table.

Friend Inc. recognizes its 2025 sponsors, whose support makes this event possible:

• Platinum Paw Sponsor: Weber Steel

• Golden Leash Sponsors: My Pet’s Brace, Silver Maple Veterinary Clinic

• Silver Collar Sponsors: The Barn at Walnut Grove, Catnip Veterinary Care, Moyer Total Indoor Comfort

To register or learn more, visit www.friendinc.org.