MEDIA RELEASE

Hawaii Island Humane Society’s Annual Halloween Pet Walks are scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 30 in Queen Liliuokalani Park in Hilo and Sunday, Oct. 31 in Kailua Village with registration for both events beginning at 8 a.m. and walks beginning at 9 a.m.

“Our Pet Walks encourage pet owners to exercise themselves and their pets during these fun, family-friendly Halloween weekend events,” Hawaii Island Humane Society Executive Director Donna Whitaker said. “Lots of contests and prizes can be anticipated to add to the planned festivities in both Hilo and Kona.”

Walkers with – or without – pets are urged to raise pledges and support Hawaii Island Humane Society. The Kona event is encouraging the organization of teams and team challenges with special prizes for the largest team entered.

Prizes will also be awarded for best costumes, pet/owner look-alike contest, best pet trick, hot dog eating contest, best canine kisser and more. The adult (whether part of a team or not) who raises the most money overall will be awarded a Honolulu weekend donated by Weil and Associates with air fare for two, two nights at the Sheraton Waikiki and Budget rental car.

There will be a special prize for the individual 18 and under that raises the most money.

The team raising the most money will be awarded lunch catered by Grass Shack Parties & Rentals (up to 30 people).

Registration for the Pet Walks is free. Walkers who raise $50 or more receive a T-shirt. And every dog gets a bandana! Registration forms will be available mid-August from HIHS’s Kona, Waimea and Hilo shelters, online at www.HIHS.org or from many island veterinarians.

Log on now to www.FirstGiving.com/HIHSPetWalk and create your own fundraising page or team fundraising page for both Hilo and Kona Pet Walks. Then email friends, family and co-workers to contribute.

Vendors interested in having a booth during the Kona Pet Walk should contact Jacob Moore at 769-0609 or via email (fund.dev at hihs.org) to reserve space. If you or your business is interested in donating prizes or sponsoring Pet Walk events, contact Moore.

Proceeds from the Pet Walks benefit some of the many needs of Hawaii Island Humane Society including pet food supplies and low-cost spay and neuter services to help eliminate pet overpopulation.

The mission of the Hawaii Island Humane Society is to promote respect for all animals, prevent cruelty to animals, eliminate pet overpopulation, and enhance the relationship between humans and animals.

HIHS holds a contract with the County of Hawaii to enforce certain animal-related laws and it offers 24-hour service for injured animals and other animal emergencies, humane education classes, low-cost spay and neuter services, lost and found assistance, microchipping and more.

— Find out more:
HIHS: 329-1175, www.HIHS.org