By Valerie L. Moran - Archbishop Edward A. McCarthy HS
Mascots Maverick and Digger pose with friends at the Fourth Annual Walk for the Animals fundraiser at Archbishop McCarthy High School. Photographer: Valerie Lockwood Moran
SOUTHWEST RANCHES | More than 300 humans stuck up for their four-footed friends with the fourth annual Walk for the Animals at Archbishop Edward A. McCarthy High School, raising more than $2,500 and awareness for animal adoption.
Blasting out music was DjA2, whose entertainment was donated
by Party King DJ's. He played "Who Let the Dogs Out?", but he promised
not to play "How Much is that Doggy in the Window?"
Milo's Dog Rescue brought adoptable animals, which were walked by volunteers at the Jan. 30 event. Throughout the walk, the dogs were treated to dog biscuits, bowls of water, shade and even colored poop bags when the need arose. The Humane Society of Broward County brought games and informational pamphlets.
"Maverick," the McCarthy High mascot, was joined by "Digger," the Humane Society mascot. They posed for photos and helped drive home the message of pet adoption.
Besides Milo’s Dog Rescue and the Humane Society, the $2,500 benefited the Wild Life Care Center. People also donated pet food and supplies such as animal toys.
The amount topped last year's sum by $1,100, and 200 more people attended.
"The students are so happy to see how extra effort on their part paid big dividends for the animals," said Cristin Calder, science department chair and club moderator.
Besides walking, the students added a bake sale and sold several items: water, hot chocolate, coffee and Walk for the Animals shirts.
"Our club members have a deep love for animals and met several times to brainstorm new ways to raise funds," Calder said.
The Friends of the Animals work all year to raise funds and awareness about the importance of animal adoption, culminating in the annual Walk for the Animals.
Those who wish to donate to the club or buy a shirt may email Calder at [email protected].
