The annual Walk, Woof, Wag event drew crowds of enthusiastic dogs and dog lovers to Sycamore Field in Bidwell Park on Saturday, Oct. 11. The community fundraiser, organized to support the Chico Animal Shelter, celebrated the bonds between pets and their people while raising funds for the local animals in need.
Attendees and pups enjoyed a scenic group walk through the park, an agility course, vendor booths, raffles, dog costume contest and plenty of playtime – all in the name of supporting pets.
I had the opportunity to interview Gina Catallo-Kokoletsos, animal services manager at Chico Animal Shelter. When asked, “What does this animal charity fundraiser mean to you?” she spoke of how much this fundraiser means to her.
“I’ve worked at the shelter for nearly 14 years and this event really inspires me every year to keep doing this work. It brings me so much joy to come to this event and see how many people care about shelter animals and support our hard work. Every year families bring dogs they’ve adopted to the event, and it’s so great to see them there and know how happy the dogs and their people are.”
The heart of this event lies in how it all began. In 2014, a local junior high student named Bryce turned a simple leadership class project into something extraordinary. After adopting a dog from the Chico Animal Shelter, he wanted to find a way to give back to the place that had brought him his best friend. With guidance from Sarah at Canine Connection, Bryce’s idea is what started the first fundraiser – a small act of kindness that would grow far beyond what anyone imagined.
Over the years, the event has blossomed, drawing a larger crowd and deeper community support with every passing year. What started as one student’s idea has become a lasting tradition of compassion and care.
The organizers of this lively event consist of Friends of the Chico Animal Shelter, The Canine Connection and Pink Penguin Events. Every dollar raised goes directly to the shelter’s medical fund, helping provide lifesaving treatment for sick and injured animals in need.
“I hope this event inspires people to consider our shelter when they look for a new pet in the future.”
Anyone interested in learning more about the event, getting involved, volunteering or donating can do so year-round through the North Valley Community Foundation. The Chico Animal Shelter also welcomes on-site volunteers and fosters who want to make a difference in the lives of local animals. More information can be found at www.chicoanimalshelter.org
Thanks to the dedication of volunteers, donors, and animal lovers alike, the spirit of giving continues to thrive – ensuring every animal gets the second chance it deserves.
