The 26th annual Hilton Head Humane Association’s Dog Walk on the Beach is expected to be, as in years past, “quite a sight to see,” said Franny Gerthoffer, executive director of the nonprofit organization.
The fundraiser will be held Saturday, May 4, at Coligny Beach on Hilton Head Island, starting at 8:30 a.m. with check-in on the beach boardwalk. The walk begins at 9 a.m.
Based on recent years’ participation, Gerthoffer expects 80 to 100 humans and “more dogs than people,” she said. Many people bring more than one dog, she said, although some humans walk without a four-legged companion.
Participants must register in advance on the website, hiltonheadhumane.org, or by calling (843) 681-8686. The registration fee is $30, which includes a T-shirt, swag bag of goodies and the opportunity to win door prizes.
Gerthoffer said the fee hasn’t changed in about 10 years, and they are able to keep that number low thanks to generous sponsors and other donors.
The mission of Hilton Head Humane is “to improve the lives of homeless dogs and cats while also working to substantially lower the numbers of animals reproduced or relinquished.”
The organization provides spay/neuter and release of feral cats, and food, shelter and medical care for homeless domesticated cats and dogs until forever homes can be found. In the past year, more than 10,000 abandoned animals were cared for by the organization’s staff and volunteers.
The organization also operates a thrift store, The Litter Box, at 46 Old Wild Horse Road. One hundred percent of its proceeds benefit the organization. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
The Dog Walk is less than a quarter mile, Gerthoffer said, with water bowls and buckets of dog toys at the halfway point. Dogs choose their own toys and enjoy beach games with their owners.
“It’s just fun – silly fun,” Gerthoffer said. “How can you not have fun with dog people and their dogs on the beach?”