Eighth Annual Dearborn Mutt Strut Set for Saturday

The Dearborn Animal Shelter's eighth annual Mutt Strut & Pet Expo will take place this weekend at Ford Field.

The event is scheduled for 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 11 and is expected to draw hundreds of dog lovers throughout Southeast Michigan to Dearborn.

Elaine Greene, executive director for the Friends For the Dearborn Animal Shelter, said the event is the largest gathering of pet fans in the area. She said several thousand attendees took part in the event last year, and helped raise funds for adoptable animals at the shelter.

“Each year we introduce new activities to keep the day fresh and exciting for returning supporters and appeal to more new attendees as well. The Mutt Strut & Pet Expo brings so many people together for fun of course, but to spotlight the joy of pet companionship and to help homeless animals," she said in a press release.

Sponsored by Dearborn Family Pet Care, Mutt Strut commences with a 2.3 mile pledge-driven walk for all skill levels to leash up their dogs and walk with family and friends. The track runs adjacent to Michigan Avenue and provides businesses a chance to showcase themselves to new visitors to the city. Mayor John B. O'Reilly, Jr. will be on hand at 10:30 a.m. to cut the ceremonial opening day ribbon.

During the past seven years, Mutt Strut supporters raised over $400,000 benefiting more than 15,000 rescued animals. This year, the fundraising goal is $65,000.

The expo portion is a community-wide celebration that features an array of free, fun activities, including the popular Yelp.com VIP Hound Lounge for walkers raising $300 or more. The lounge includes food, and a place for walkers to relax.

Other events include a celebration tent with an adopted dog birthday "pawty" and a chance to meet new adoptable pets; a K-9 Fun Run; and a "Doggie Fun Zone," offering games and contests.

Sandra Boulton, PR account director for the shelter, said one of the perennial favorites returning this year is former Detroit Tiger Milt Wilcox's "Ultimate Air Dogs," featuring a dock-diving competition.

"It is quite a sight to see," she said.

An array of metro Detroit food trucks serving gourmet street fare, and a "Fastest Mutt in the Midwest" competition will also take place during the afternoon.

As part of the fundraiser, the Exchange Club of Dearborn will hold a street collection drive at key intersections in Dearborn. Donations will benefit adoptable animals in the care of the shelter.

“Our members and volunteers are excited about helping the animals. There are people who will be driving down Michigan Avenue that day who might not otherwise know about Mutt Strut, and this could be a great way for them to help
out," Pat D’Ambrosio, spokesperson for the Exchange Club said.

Adorned with Mutt Strut T-shirts, the canister collection team is going to be stationed at each intersection along Michigan Avenue extending from Outer drive to Oakwood Boulevard, as well as two satellite locations at Dearborn Farm Market and Westborn Farm Market.

For more information about the Mutt Strut & Pet Expo, or to register online, visit www.DearbornAnimals.org.