First Bark in Park in Mifflintown to benefit rescue
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MIFFLINTOWN -- Sadly, animal shelters and rescues have been deluged with unwanted pets over the past few years.
Since the pandemic, owners no longer want or can afford to take care of these animals. Not only has there been a strain due to the growing number of animals but the increasing financial costs to take care of them.
Beth Weaver of Milroy is hoping the first Bark in the Park will help ease some of that financial burden.
The idea to hold this event came after Weaver helped a friend and dog sitter put together a Paws on Parade back at Kishacoquillas Park in Derry Township in 2021. "It had a huge turnout, and it was just a small bake sale and a pet walk. It made almost $2,000 for a local rescue.
"Even our state representative at the time, John Hershey, came out with his wife and beautiful German Shepherd to walk with us," she added.
This year's version will be held at Walker Township Park Lane, Mifflintown, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 30.
The Bark in the Park will feature a costumed pet parade, vendors, food, Chinese auction, games and a visit from mascot Weavdog.
"I figured if we can make this much on a walk and small bake sale we can do something bigger and hope it takes off as a yearly event to help different rescues each year," Weaver explained.
Proceeds will benefit Heather Hockenberry and Her Furry Friends Animal Rescue of Honey Grove.
"Heather is well known for her rescue efforts," Weaver said. "(She) is always taking in animals from pot-bellied pigs to kittens, even horses. She always puts 100 percent effort into getting the sick ones healthy and finding wonderful homes for all our furry friends."
So far, the event has been well-received.
"With this being our first time, I was concerned about not getting many vendors or if any at all," Weaver said. "But here we are, 15 vendors for our first show!
"Which 15 is really great for a first time show that you have no idea how many people will turn out for," she added. "Most new events bring maybe 4 or 5 vendors to test the waters."
Vendors will have wares from doggie sweaters and scarves to blessings of the pets, Hank the Heeler's Kissing Booth and Hillary's Hound School, which offers free obedience and training tips.
Deejay John Wagner, of J Squatch Entertainment, will provide musical entertainment at the event.
"My expectation of this event is that this has a big draw and that we can make it an annual event," Weaver said.
Despite the event being geared to pet owners, the entire community is invited to attend and support events like the Chinese auction or cheer on Weavdog who will lead the parade of rock and roll-themed costumed pets.
"You don't need a pet to come to support our local rescues, but who would want to turn down the chance to come and pet dogs all day?" Weaver said.
For more information, find the Bark in the Park page on Facebook.