Dogs walk for Humane Society

By Lucy Baugh


SARASOTA, Fla. -- Families and their four legged friends visited Sarasota's Historic Spanish Point Sept. 20, to enjoy a Saturday morning dog walk held in partnership with The Humane Society of Sarasota County.

The "Pups at the Point" program, which takes place on the third Saturday of each month, aims to raise awareness of the many abandoned pets in need of a home in Sarasota County.


"It's wonderful to see families come out with their dogs to support the work we do" said Adoption Counselor for The Humane Society, Joy Johnson. Johnson was on hand Saturday to provide information about the many pets in shelter looking for families just like those who came out for the morning walk.


The HSSC shelters nearly 4,000 pets every year, and while many of those animals will find a safe home eventually, there are still others that will not be so lucky. "Programs like Pups at the Point give us the chance to spread the word and let people know how they can help" Johnson later said, while handing out leaflets to interested animal lovers.


The setting for the walk, Historic Spanish Point, overlooks Little Sarasota Bay and the 30 acre museum site made up primarily of nature trails was the first in Sarasota County to be listed in the National Register of Historic Places. "On a regular day, dogs are not permitted on the site" said Visitor Services Co-ordinator Tess Herschman. "I hope the visitors today enjoy having their pets with them in this beautiful setting, and enjoy discovering more about Florida's history" Herschman continued.


The HSSC and it's many volunteers are a consistent presence at various local events, and "the enthusiastic response from the visitors makes everything all the more worthwhile" explained HSSC volunteer Ashley Roberts. The HSSC is frequently recognized by Charity Navigator, America's largest independent evaluator of charities. Last year, the society recieved the highest possible rating from the company for it's financial management.


As the walk came to a close just before noon, the representatives from the HSSC offered dog biscuits and treats to the many pets taking part.

Heather McCrary, of Lakewood Ranch Sarasota has been supporting the HSSC for a number of years, and took part in the walk with her son Tobey, and their golden labrador Sandy. "I love coming here for the pups program, it's lovely to bring Sandy here with us and support the cause" McCrary explained. "I adopted Sandy when she was nine years old from the HSSC, and she is a much loved part of our family".


The HSSC accepts online donations through their website, www.hssc.org, and details of the many events they take part in, including Pups at the Point can also be found there.