The dog days of summer are over, but Philly’s finest furry friends will have their day to strut their stuff at the Philadelphia Navy Yard.
The 18th Annual Mutt Strut strolls into town on Oct. 5 in an effort to raise money for lifesaving efforts performed by the Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society, also known as PAWS. The event takes place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Navy Yard (Marine Parade Grounds), 4747 S. Broad St.
“The Mutt Strut is the perfect opportunity to come together with fellow dog enthusiasts for a fun, family-friendly fall celebration,” said Melissa Levy, PAWS’ executive director.
The Mutt Strut Dog Walk and Fall Festival invites dogs and their humans to enjoy a fun-filled fall festival and a scenic walk through the Navy Yard. The event is a 1.5-mile walk kicked off by the Mummers.
The four-legged friends will attempt to outdo the outfits of the prestigious Mummers groups as guests are encouraged to take part in a Halloween costume contest for dogs. There will also be an agility course, field games, paw print painting and other activities along with “Ask the Vet” and “Ask the Trainer” booths. Guests can also meet and fall in love with plenty adoptable dogs.
There’s also plenty to do for the humans.
There will be live music, food trucks and a beer garden provided by Dock Street Brewery, which has a South Philly location on Washington Avenue.
Local celebrities Sue Serio (Fox 29), Steve Morrison (WMMR), Kristen Herrmann (BenFM) and Jennifer Coffey (QVC) will serve as masters of ceremonies.
“From seeing adorable pups in costumes to the chance to support a cause that saves lives, this event brings our community closer while helping the people and pets who rely on us year-round,” Levy said.
As the city’s largest rescue partner and provider of affordable veterinary care, PAWS is working to make Philadelphia a no-kill city. PAWS saves and finds loving homes for thousands of homeless animals each year and enables thousands more families to care for and keep their cherished pets. The Mutt Strut annually raises more than $120,000 for PAWS’ lifesaving efforts.
Registration opens at 11 a.m. and the walk begins at noon. Registration is $40 and includes a T-shirt. For additional details, including ticket information, visit www.pawsmuttstrut.org.
