One of many participants at Saturday’s 5th annual Paw Walk in the Garden. Photo: Rancho Coastal Humane Society
By Gina Yarbrough
ENCINITAS–Dog owners spent part of Saturday morning walking their four-legged friends at the 6th annual 5K Paw Walk in the Garden held on Saturday at San Diego Botanic Garden in Encinitas.
The event was a fundraiser for both the Rancho Coastal Humane Society and the San Diego Botanic Garden.
“We had between 450 and 500 registered walkers this year. That’s not surprising considering that it’s the only day of the year when families can take their dogs for a walk and the San Diego Botanic Garden,” said Kelly Peters, Rancho Coastal Humane Society events coordinator. “Saturday seems to be the favorite dog walking day in San Diego. We’re giving them the option of taking the walk every dog is begging to go on.”
“The 5K Paw Walk in the Garden isn’t competitive. It’s just for fun,” says Sam Beukema, education and events manager for the Garden. “Walkers can cover the full course or just take a stroll and enjoy the Garden. It’s not just the walking part that people love.”
Pet products, food (for people), treats (for dogs), and helpful information for pet lovers were on display during the event.
Peters says that, while the Walk isn’t competitive, the fundraising effort grows stronger every year.
