Everyone’s favorite four legged family members took over Central Park Plaza in Valparaiso during the 2015 Lakeshore Paws Pup Crawl. Whether it was families and their dogs coming down to have a good time, supporters of Lakeshore Paws or dogs in need of a home, everyone enjoyed being downtown in celebration of a good cause.
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The event featured a “Pup Crawl” where participants walked their dogs downtown. All of the proceeds went to Lakeshore Paws to support their continuous care of homeless dogs.
“This event benefits the homeless dogs of Northwest Indiana. It is our biggest event of the year and our fourth year doing it. We are just hoping to raise money and awareness for homeless dogs. I love seeing how much this helps the dogs. When you see a dog get a home, there’s nothing like it,” Executive Director at Lakeshore Paws, Jeanne Sommer said.
Along with the walk, there were booths lined up in the park that featured pet vendors, as well as local food to try.
Not only was there fun for people, but the dogs could also enjoy some pools set up for them to get a drink or take a dip.
Orv and Diane Shearhod came back to the event from last year after rescuing a dog through Lakeshore Paws. “There are just too many out there that need a home after someone out there couldn’t have them, gave them up or abused them,” Shearhod said.
Dogs of all sizes and breeds walked around Central Park Plaza, greeting each other or just enjoying the company of their families. Around the park were dogs wearing vests that let you know they were up for adoption and searching for a new home.
As the walk started, the band Nawty took to the Amphitheatre stage to provide some entertainment for the guests while those who participated in the walk enjoyed a nice summer night in downtown Valpo.
“This really helps spread awareness of what Lakeshore Paws is about and it is just a fun time for people to come out, bring their dogs and fundraise for our organization,” Event Organizer, Molly Judd said.
You could really see the love that the owners had for their dogs and that same love being returned from the dogs all throughout Central Park. There are so many other dogs looking to be unconditional companions and a part of a family at Lakeshore Paws. If you are interested in adopting, check out Lakeshore Paws website http://www.lakeshorepaws.org and see all the dogs waiting for a home.