COLD LAKE - Due to animal health and safety concerns, there were no dogs being walked at the Lakeland Humane Society's second annual Bark in the Park event held on Oct.1, but the event was nonetheless successful in raising about $8,000 for the Cold Lake-based organization.
Although none of the society's dogs have canine distemper, Danielle Donovan, Lakeland Humane Society shelter manager, said staff thought it would be best to cancel that part of the event out of an abundance of caution.
Instead, there were dog balloons that kids could walk. The balloons were tied up to fences, riding along in wagons and floating along the grounds where all the other activities were being held.
There was a card reading table where participants picked three cards and had questions answered about their past, present and future. There were also a dozen vendors selling homemade food and crafts. A bouncy house and Luna Pop food truck were on location too.
A barbecue with hamburgers and hot dogs, and a station where kids could practice grooming a toy dog and learn dog grooming tips also made for a fun-filled day. There were areas for selfies, and people could purchase swag from the Humane Society. And for the first time, a cornhole tournament also took place.
A few of the cornhole boards were made by Bob Roberts from Camrose, and the others that included the society's logo on them, were made by the Cold Lake Men's Shed.
Donovan explained all the money raised for the Bark in the Park event would be going to the Lakeland Humane Society.
"Right now, we have a full house. About 50 cats and 50 dogs. We are often running at full capacity," she explained. "We mostly see surrenders, people who are moving, or are unwell, or don't have the money to look after their pets anymore."
She stated there was a waiting list of people waiting to surrender their pets.
People who are looking for volunteer opportunities can contact the society as they are always looking for more volunteers.
"Everyone here today, on the field, manning booths, are volunteers," said Donovan.
