VERO BEACH — The Humane Society of Indian River County’s 4th Bark in the Park was a wonderful opportunity for dog owners to enjoy a day outdoors socializing with their best friends. Pet lovers walked the park amongst others who thought nothing of putting Shih Tzu’s in strollers and dressing Dobermans in Isaac Mizrahi pullovers.
Humane Society staff estimated that approximately 7,000 people enjoyed the sunny Saturday in Riverside Park playing with their furry friends. Many came just to watch the canine fun. They kicked off with a Pet Parade circling the park as pets ran lure courses; Disc Connected K-9 Frisbee Team performed high flying tricks, and vendors shared space with hopeful dogs looking for adoptive homes.
Although finding permanent placement remains a main goal, Bark in the Park serves as the Society’s second largest fundraiser next to Cause for Paws.
Volunteer Coordinator Millissa Ferrer said the hope for the day was to bring awareness to everyone about shelter activities and raise money for its operation.
“We want people to know about our programs, the clinic that we have and to let everybody learn that we do more than just adoptions,” said Ferrer.
The Visiting Nurse Association was also on hand to educate the public about their partnership with the Society.
“One of the things we learned from families is that they are hesitant to send patients to hospice care because many were not sure what would happen to their pets. We partner with the Humane Society to help them get adopted or have volunteers who help take care of the animals in the home,” said Michael Gardner of the VNA. “In some cases we even use a volunteer vet, Dr. Sara Matthews, who sometimes helps with the medical care of our patients’ animals too.”
Bonnie and Steve Pfeister came to the event to bring their Great Dane, Marley, to visit with other Danes. They are amazingly gentle for their massive size.
“They are just really super laid back and affectionate,” said Bonnie Pfeister of the breed. “Basically a 150-pound lap dog. At first he ran us but after Pawprints trained us we were okay because basically it is not about training the dog but training owners to be the leaders.”
“Marley is just a big lover,” said Steve Pfeister. “When we saw him he just came over and sat down on me. He chose us.”
From giant mastiffs to teacup poodles everyone seemed to get along well and the weather could not have been better.
“Last year we did not have as many people here,” said Director of Foundation Campaign Tim Swift at the end of the event. “This puts us in front of a bunch of people. It’s a free event, on a perfect day and it should net us at least $40,000 to go to our operating fund.”
