The Humane Society of Pinellas held their signature event, the Mutt Strut, on March 20th on beautiful Honeymoon Island. Dogs with their owners in tow came from all over to enjoy the day's worth of pet-friendly activities and vendors. The Mutt Strut included pet contests, with categories ranging from “shortest legs” to “cutest dog” and, fittingly, the chance for owners to strut their mutt along Osprey Trail.
Officer Barbara Baugher of the Pinellas County Schools Police Department brought along T-Rex. T-Rex was rescued from the Humane Society, and now serves as a K-9 officer, working as a drug-sniffing dog. According to Officer Baugher, the dog was named “T-Rex” when she found him at the Humane Society, and decided to keep the name because she wanted the previous owner, whomever that may be, to know that T-Rex is doing fine, and has a great job, and to signify her gratitude for having found him.
In a special plaque presentation, Millie Esterline and Jeff Zhu of the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office, were honored for their concept and implementation of PCSO C.A.R.E.S, a program which reunites lost pets with their owners.
The Mutt Strut serves as a fundraiser for the Humane Society of Pinellas, with funds raised from pledges from individuals, and a variety of raffles. “Wag Bags” filled with goodies were given away to those who donated over $10.
While the Mutt Strut is an annual event, the Humane Society of Pinellas puts on many different pet-friendly events throughout the year. The next event will be Bark at the Ballpark, in which people will be able to take their pooches to see a Threshers game at Bright House Field.
For more information on the Humane Society of Pinellas, visit www.humanesocietyofpinellas.org.
