Pet Parade 2012 - A Walk for Animals

You can help support fundraising for animal shelters and assist the Atlanta Humane Society’s ongoing efforts to save the lives of Atlanta’s most deserving pets by joining in the fun during Saturday’s 22nd Annual Humane Society Atlanta Pet Parade fundraiser.

On April 21, animal lovers and their pets will come together for the Atlanta Pet Parade to be held at Atlantic Station’s Central Park.

All pet owners and pet lovers of all ages are invited to participate. There is a registration fee for the walk, but admission is free for all other activities.

“For over 20 years, Pet Parade has generated significant support and donations for Atlanta Humane Society’s shelter programs and services,” said William Shaheen, president, Atlanta Humane Society in a release. “With nearly 1,500 walkers hitting the pavement, we hope to make our 22nd year the most successful to date by raising over $200,000.”

Did you know that it costs the Atlanta Humane Society about $500 per pet to find safe and loving homes for its sheltered animals? There are over 155 dogs and 75 cats at the Howell Mill and Mansell Campuses that are awaiting new homes. Between the two locations, it is expected that 10,000 animals will be adopted and over 16,000 spay/neuter surgeries will be completed this year.

The Atlanta Pet Parade is AHS’s largest fundraising event and 100 percent of the proceeds directly support the AHS. 

A full day of events will include an array of adoptable animals, vendors, games, contests, training demonstrations, and displays by local rescue organizations. In addition to great contest prizes, all fundraisers will have a chance to win fabulous rewards for reaching set fundraising goals. Trophies will be awarded to the top fundraisers and fundraising teams.

Interested in walking with a team? Check out how your school, workplace, friends, or civic club can join together for a day of fun while supporting needy animals by visiting the teams page. For details, directions, and forms, please visit the info page to learn more about the Atlanta Pet Parade and opportunities for fundraising. Animal shelters rely on the support of pet lovers like you. So don’t delay – register today.

Registration begins at 9 a.m., the opening ceremonies are at 10:45 a.m., and the walk will begin at 11 a.m. The route is a little over a mile long and winds around Atlantic Station. Participants and their pets can expect to proceed at a leisurely pace. Water stations will be provided throughout the route for people and their pets. A veterinarian will also be in attendance for any animal injuries or emergencies.

“Atlanta Humane Society appreciates the support extended by North American Properties, and we hope to continue our partnership for future initiatives,” continued Shaheen in the release. “Atlantic Station is a venue that can really unite our supporters — it’s a pet friendly environment in a central location.  Truly, it’s a win-win for both Atlantic Station and Atlanta Humane Society — we are creating an “experience” for AHS supporters and bringing shoppers and diners to this great community destination.”