Ramona Nichols, with the Goodwill Assistance Dog Academy, hands a toy lightsaber to Jerry, who is dressed as an ewok from “Star Wars,” during the 2014 Bark in the Park fundraiser at Heritage Park.The eighth annual Bark in the Park is Saturday, Oct. 8, and organizers want area residents to know the event is free, aside from a requested donation to benefit local animal shelters.
The dog-themed fundraiser not only helps area rescue groups in need of donations, but benefits the community and the off-leash dog park the event was birthed to help bring into existence, said organizer and Friends of East Brainerd President Amy Smith.
She estimates $5,000 would cover the remaining needs of the dog park, located in Heritage Park where the event is held, such as benches and a covered area for dogs and their owners, as well as any costs associated with Bark in the Park itself.
“The more people we can get out here, the more people will see what the need is and spread the word for something that really benefits the community,” she said.
The event takes place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., rain or shine. Featured activities include a demonstration by Chattanooga Police K9 units, training on pet first aid, a costume contest, blessing of the animals and more.
In addition to regular festival craft and food booths, the event will also feature adoptable dogs from rescue groups.
Anyone interested in donating to the park but unable to attend the event can do so by mailing a check to Heritage House with the notice “ATTN: Dog Park,” Smith added.
For more information on the event or to volunteer, visit facebook.com/ChattBarkInThePark.